Four Jailed? No — Fined for Faking Departure to Claim MPF

What Happened to Four Members Who Faked Departure to Claim MPF?

On 1 March 2011, four members were convicted of falsely claiming permanent departure to withdraw MPF early, each fined HK$6,000 — HK$24,000 in total. They had applied between March and June 2010, all falsely declaring no prior claim on those grounds.

Why did so many risk it?

Some assumed a short trip away would go unnoticed, but the MPFA checks immigration records. Past cases involved members who “departed”, then re-enrolled in MPF shortly after — exposed as mere cross-border commuters.

Is permanent-departure withdrawal really once per lifetime?

Yes. Each member may invoke “permanent departure from Hong Kong” only once ever. After using it, returning to work in Hong Kong means rejoining MPF with no second bite.

What are the legal ways to handle MPF when changing jobs?

Consolidate preserved accounts — no fraud needed. Compare MPF funds to see your options.