It is an important step in family reunification to live in Hong Kong. Therefore, there are options available for qualified family members of foreign professionals and Hong Kong permanent residents and citizens. Sometimes, the requirements of a dependent visa Hong Kong and the process of its application can be confusing. To make this easy, here are the top five things to consider when applying for a dependent visa in Hong Kong.
1. Understand Hong Kong Dependent Visa Eligibility
Before the application process, it is important to understand who can qualify for a dependent visa in Hong Kong. Normally, dependants that are usually considered to meet qualification include:
Spouses: A legally married spouse of a Hong Kong resident or an eligible foreign professional.
Children: Unmarried children below the age of 18.
Parents (of residents): In the event of certain occurrences, parents who are over 60 years old of the resident in Hong Kong.
In all situations, one must provide a marriage certificates or birth certificates, at some stage in the time of utility.
2. Hong Kong Dependent Visa Requirements
To follow for an established visa efficiently, one has to prepare the positive files a good way to be required to gain the based visa requirements in Hong Kong. Documents consist of but are not constrained to:
Valid Passport: Passports of both the sponsor and the dependent.
Proof of Relationship: Such as marriage or birth certificates, or notarized affidavits proving the relationship.
Sponsor’s Financial Statements: Evidence that the sponsor is capable of supporting the dependent economically. It can include as income statements, bank statements, or contracts of employment.
Accommodation Proof: Proof of suitable accommodation for the dependent, such as a tenancy agreement or document relating to property ownership.
Sponsor’s Status: Documents proving the sponsor’s legal status in Hong Kong, including but not limited to a visa or resident permit.
Submission of full and correct documentation is very important to avoid delay or a possible rejection.
3. How to Apply for a Dependent Visa Hong Kong
The sponsor or the dependent, if already in Hong Kong, may submit an application. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a dependent visa in Hong Kong:
Prepare the Documents: Get all the required documents ready and complete.
ID 997 Form: The ID 997 form should be completed and will serve as the official form for dependent visa applications.
Application Submission: One can submit the form and documents to the Hong Kong Immigration Department either in person or by post.
Await Processing: The actual time for processing usually ranges from 4 to 6 weeks.
Approval and Collection: Once approved, the applicant will receive a visa label. This should be affixed onto his or her passport.
It is necessary to check each part of the application form and all the supporting documents prior to submission.
4. Dependent Visa Extension in Hong Kong
Upon approval, the duration of a dependent visa in Hong Kong usually takes the duration of the sponsor’s visa. For dependants who have interests in staying longer, one needs to apply using a dependent visa extension Hong Kong form. Here is how to do:
Timing: Apply for the extension of stay about 4 weeks before expiry.
Form Submission: Application for an extension of stay can be downloaded. It is usually available from the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Supporting Documents: Provide proof of finance and information on accommodation, along with a valid passport and recent photo.
In the event that the sponsor’s visa or status is changed, it is necessary to inform the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
5. Other Things to Consider in a Dependent Visa
There are a few other things that you should remember when applying for a Hong Kong dependent visa:
Visa Duration: Usually, a dependent visa is granted for the same period as the visa of the sponsor. In this case, the dependent’s visa status can have impact through any changes to the sponsor’s job status.
Working Rights: Dependents of Hong Kong permanent residents or residents holding an employment visa may work in Hong Kong. However, this isn’t same for everyone. Always check eligibility in advance.
Education: Dependent visa holders below the age of 18 years can attend local schools, which is a great benefit.
Travel in and out of Hong Kong: The dependent visa holder can enter and leave Hong Kong without requiring any further permissions.
Conclusion
A precise understanding of the eligibility criteria, heavy preparation of the required documents may ease the process. Moreover, planned considerations of visa extensions and rights pertaining to employment or education enable better exploitation of your status as a holder of a dependent visa.
About FastLane HR
FastLane HR loves to help in relocation and immigration by giving you guidance and assistance on dependent visa applications. FastLane HR make sure that you get ease with every step in your application process.
Our team of professionals can guide you through the procedures and help minimize delays, keeping you in compliance with Hong Kong immigration rules. so that you can concentrate on making Hong Kong your home. For further information about our visa and HR services, please refer to FastLane HR at.