We are seeking a Hong Kong-qualified Lawyer with expertise in payment services regulation, licensing, and compliance to lead our license application with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA). This role will oversee the end-to-end licensing process, ensuring full compliance with Hong Kong’s Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance (PSSVFO) and related AML/CFT regulations.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the global licensing which including Hong Kong payment business license application with the HKMA.
Provide legal and regulatory advice on payment services, stored value facilities, remittance, money service operator licensing, AML/KYC, and data protection under Hong Kong law.
Draft, review, and finalize all licensing application documents, compliance manuals, corporate governance policies, and contracts required for submission.
Advise management on corporate structuring, capital, and governance requirements to meet HKMA standards.
Liaise with the HKMA, regulators, external counsel, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth communication and progress.
Stay updated on Hong Kong payment services regulatory developments and advise on their impact to the business.
Support the setup of risk, compliance, and internal control frameworks required for licensing.
Coordinate with regional legal teams in the Philippines, Singapore, and other jurisdictions for cross-border regulatory alignment.
Qualifications
Qualified Lawyer admitted to practice in Hong Kong (mandatory).
5+ years of post-qualification experience in financial regulatory, fintech, or payment services law.
In-depth knowledge of the Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance (PSSVFO), AMLO, and relevant HKMA guidelines.
Proven experience supporting or leading HKMA license applications (payment business, SVF, MSO, or similar).
Excellent communication and drafting skills in English; Cantonese/Mandarin a strong plus.
Ability to manage multiple stakeholders, including regulators, consultants, and internal executives.
Background in fintech, payments, banking, or financial institutions with Hong Kong licensing exposure.
Experience drafting compliance frameworks (AML, risk, data privacy, consumer protection).
Strong professional network within Hong Kong’s legal and regulatory environment.
