Pianist Lang Lang reacts as he addresses a news conference in Berlin, September 29, 2006. [Reuters]

HONG KONG -- Chinese classical pianist Lang Lang has formally become a Hong Kong resident, saying he hopes to spend more time mentoring aspiring musicians in the territory.

The former British colony Hong Kong is now under Chinese rule, but it remains separately governed and maintains immigration controls. Hong Kong residency is coveted in the Chinese mainland because of the higher standard of living here.

German TV presenter Thomas Gottschalk (L) jokes with Chinese pianist Lang Lang during the German TV show 'Wetten, dass' (Bet it) in Karlsruhe, southern Germany, September 30, 2006. [Reuters]

Lang Lang was granted Hong Kong residency under a new "quality migrant" scheme that allows foreigners and mainlanders to settle locally without first securing a job.

He presented original copies of documents proving his qualifications at Hong Kong immigration offices Monday and was issued a residency permit, Immigration Department spokesman K.K. Au said.

The 24-year-old Lang, a native of the northeastern Chinese city of Shenyang, told reporters, he's glad his move to Hong Kong allows him to keep Chinese citizenship.

"I'm very happy. I have many chances to get foreign passports, but this arrangement is especially good because I can maintain my Chinese citizenship," he told reporters.

Hong Kong residents have different passports than mainland Chinese citizens but are considered Chinese nationals.

Lang, who was named an honorary fellow at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts this year, said he wants to spend more time interacting with music students in Hong Kong.

"I hope to frequently visit the academy or other schools to conduct exchanges with local students," Lang said.

Lang's Hong Kong residency will be reviewed after a year to see if he has made moves to plant roots in Hong Kong, such as landing a job or setting up a business, immigration spokesman Au said.

Once Lang spends seven years living here he will qualify for permanent residency.

Local media reported immigration offices gave Lang preferential treatment Monday, extending their opening hours so that Lang, who arrived late, could complete his paperwork.

Au denied this, saying a representative for Lang arrived within working hours to provide documentation, although Lang himself showed up later, adding that the Immigration Department extends the same courtesy to ordinary citizens.

Other outstanding Chinese citizens rumored to have been granted Hong Kong residency under the "quality migrant" scheme include fellow Chinese classical pianist Li Yundi and Olympic gold medalist diver Fu Mingxia, who has married former Hong Kong Financial Secretary Antony Leung.

The Immigration Department declined to confirm other new residents. Eighty-three "quality" immigrants were approved in early November.