Dependant Visa Hong Kong:
The application process, processing timeline, and other pertinent details regarding the Dependant Visa Scheme in Hong Kong.
The Dependant Visa serves as a relocation permit for the immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 18) of foreign nationals who possess a valid Hong Kong visa for employment, investment, training, or study, or who are permanent residents in Hong Kong.
Each family member requires a separate application, which must be sponsored by the primary visa holder.
The duration of the dependant’s stay in Hong Kong is linked to the sponsor’s length of stay. Essentially, the Dependant Visa holder can reside, work, and study in Hong Kong for the same period as the principal visa holder’s authorized stay in the region.
Table of Contents
Requirements for Dependants Visa in Hong Kong for Indian Citizens
To apply for a dependant visa in Hong Kong, Indian citizens need to provide the following documents:
1. Completed application form
2. Recent photograph of the applicant
3. Photocopy of a valid travel document, including personal details, issue/expiry date, and re-entry visa details (if applicable). For current Hong Kong residents, include the travel document page with the arrival stamp/landing slip/extension label and “e-Visa” (if applicable).
4. Photocopy of the applicant’s Hong Kong identity card (if applicable).
5. Photocopy of proof of relationship with the sponsor, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, family photographs, letters, census record book, and Privilege Card for Single Child (if applicable).
6. Photocopy of the applicant’s Macao identity card (for Macao SAR residents only).
7. Photocopy of the applicant’s household registration and Taiwan identity card (for Taiwan residents only).
Sponsor Requirements:
1. Fully completed “Application for Entry for Residence as Dependents in Hong Kong (ID 997)” form, with Part B filled out by the sponsor.
2. Photocopy of the sponsor’s Hong Kong identity card.
3. Photocopy of the sponsor’s valid travel document, including personal details, issue/expiry date, and current visa/entry permit/extension label in HKSAR/latest “e-Visa” (applicable for non-permanent residents).
4. Photocopy of evidence demonstrating the sponsor’s financial standing, such as bank statements, savings account passbooks, tax receipts, and salary slips.
5. Photocopy of proof of the sponsor’s accommodation, such as rental receipts.
Eligibility Criteria for Dependent Visa in Hong Kong
Individuals in Hong Kong engaged in work, studies, or special programs such as Capital Investment Entrant or Quality Migrant can sponsor their family members to reside with them. Eligible sponsored individuals include:
1. Spouse (including same-sex partners in legally recognized unions)
2. Unmarried dependent children under 18 years of age
If you are a Hong Kong permanent resident or possess the right to live in the city without restrictions, certain dependents can apply to live with you:
1. Spouse (including same-sex partners in legally recognized unions)
2. Unmarried dependent children under 18 years of age
3. Parents aged 60 or above
Dependent Visa Requirements:
1. Genuine relationship with the sponsor.
2. No detrimental records known to the applicant.
3. Sponsor’s capability to provide a high standard of living and suitable accommodation in the HKSAR.
This entry arrangement does not apply to:
1. Chinese Mainland residents (except under specific employment/study schemes).
2. Former Mainland Chinese residents residing in Macao SAR for less than seven years (unless via the One-way Permit Scheme).
3. Nationals of Afghanistan and Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of).
How to Secure a Dependent Visa in Hong Kong:
Securing a Dependent Visa in Hong Kong involves a series of steps:
1. Securing Sponsorship: The sponsor must establish eligibility and the familial relationship by assembling and providing the necessary documentation mentioned above.
2. Document Compilation: Gather all required documents, including evidence of the relationship, financial stability, and meeting health requirements.
3. Submission and Processing: Submit your visa application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department and await the processing of your application. Typically, the individual already in Hong Kong, such as the sponsor or employer, will facilitate the application through the appropriate channels when bringing their family to reside with them.
4. Approval and Retrieval: Upon approval, retrieve your visa and make preparations for your journey to Hong Kong.
Dependent Visa Hong Kong Processing Time:
Typically, it takes around 6 weeks for the processing of the Hong Kong dependent visa from India. The processing time encompasses the duration it takes for the Hong Kong Immigration Department to review and make a decision on the Dependant Visa application.
The timeline commences once the applicant submits all the required documents and information, concluding when a verdict is reached regarding the approval or rejection of the visa application.
The variability in the processing duration for a Hong Kong Dependent Visa for Indians is influenced by several factors. These factors include the specific type of visa being applied for, the completeness of the application, the current workload of the Immigration Department, and whether there is a need for additional checks.
Dependent Visa Hong Kong Validity:
The duration of a Dependent Visa in Hong Kong relies on both the visa type and the sponsor’s status. Generally, the Dependent Visa is issued for the same period as the sponsor’s visa or residence status. If the sponsor’s visa gets renewed or extended, the dependent’s visa will follow suit and be renewed or extended accordingly.
Hong Kong Dependent Visa Price:
1. For adults: HKD 230 (approximately ₹ 2412)
2. For children under 18 years of age: HKD 120 (approximately ₹ 1259)
Please note that these fees may change, so it’s crucial to verify the latest and accurate visa fees on the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
The ₹ prices are calculated based on the current exchange rate in 2024, and they may vary.
Can Dependent Visa Holders Work In Hong Kong?
When renewing your dependent visa in Hong Kong, make sure to submit your application for renewal at least four weeks before your current stay limit expires. The immigration authorities will assess your eligibility as a dependent and verify whether your sponsor remains a Hong Kong resident.
If your application is approved, dependent visa extensions are typically granted for 3 years for individuals connected to permanent residents or residents without a stay limit. Spouses and unmarried children under 18 are also eligible for a 3-year extension, while parents aged 60 or above initially receive 2 years, followed by an additional 3 years.
For dependents of those who arrived in Hong Kong for work, studies, or under specific schemes such as Capital Investment Entrant or Quality Migrant, the duration of their visa extension will be determined by their sponsor’s visa status.
Why Is Hong Kong Dependent Visa Rejected?
Your dependent visa application for Hong Kong may face rejection due to various reasons. Some common factors leading to visa denial include:
1. Failure to provide all required documents or submitting incomplete or inaccurate information in your application.
2. Not meeting the specific eligibility criteria for a Hong Kong dependent visa, such as being a family member of a Hong Kong permanent resident or a valid employment visa holder.
3. Your sponsor’s inability to demonstrate financial capability to support you during your stay in Hong Kong.
4. A history of criminal activities or past violations of immigration laws.
5. Suspected fraudulent or misleading information in your application by immigration authorities.
6. Lack of genuine or legitimate relationship between you and the sponsor.
7. Past instances of overstaying or violating previous visa conditions.
8. Concerns regarding national security or public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, simultaneous applications are encouraged to streamline the process for families.
The Hong Kong Dependant Visa is open for unmarried children under 18 and elderly dependents.
Yes, a single application can encompass multiple dependents within the eligible categories.
No, the application fee is non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of accurate submission.
Apart from the application fee, consider expenses for document translation and attestation.
Yes, there is an appeal process in place. Ensure thorough documentation to support your appeal.