Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
The Dependent Pass in Hong Kong allows eligible family members of a person legally working or residing in Hong Kong to live in the city. In Tai Ping Shan, as elsewhere in Hong Kong, dependants typically include a spouse and dependent children under 18. In certain circumstances, full-time students or dependants with specific needs may qualify for extended arrangements. The overarching framework is the Immigration Ordinance and its related regulations, applied consistently across all districts, including Tai Ping Shan.
Hong Kong uses a structured application process for dependent status, requiring evidence of relationship, financial support, and the primary visa holder’s status in Hong Kong. Local residents in Tai Ping Shan should prepare to demonstrate a stable address and ongoing eligibility when applying or renewing a Dependant Pass. Processing times can vary by case complexity and document completeness.
Key point: Dependant Pass holders must maintain their eligibility alongside the primary visa holder's status. If the primary visa status changes, it can affect the dependent's rights and renewal prospects.
“A Dependant Pass is issued to dependants of a person who is lawfully in Hong Kong.”
Source: Hong Kong Immigration Department - Dependant Pass information
Hong Kong Immigration Department - Dependant Pass
Legal counsel can help you navigate the Dependant Pass process with precision, especially when timing affects residency, schooling, or work rights for your family in Tai Ping Shan.
The Dependant Pass sits within the framework of Hong Kong's Immigration Ordinance and its subsidiary regulations. The main statutory backbone is the Immigration Ordinance, which governs who may apply, for how long, and under what conditions dependants can reside in Hong Kong.
Key statutes and regulations:
Recent administrative practice has shifted toward clearer documentary requirements and increased use of online submission for Dependant Pass applications. While the statutory base remains Cap. 115 and Cap. 115A, the Immigration Department periodically updates guidance to reflect policy goals and operational efficiency. Always check the latest official notices when preparing documents.
Note: In Tai Ping Shan, local administrative steps are the same as elsewhere in Hong Kong, but residents may encounter navigational challenges due to crowded housing markets and nearby amenities. Keeping documents organized and aligned with official requirements helps avoid delays.
“A Dependant Pass is issued to dependants of a person lawfully in Hong Kong, and is governed by the Immigration Ordinance and Regulations.”
Source: Hong Kong Legislation and Immigration Department guidance
Legislation.gov.hk - Immigation Ordinance (Cap. 115), Legislation.gov.hk - Immigration Regulations (Cap. 115A), Hong Kong Immigration Department - Dependant Pass
A Dependant Pass allows eligible family members of a person legally in Hong Kong to reside there. Typically, spouses and dependent children under 18 qualify, with some cases for older dependants under special circumstances. The primary applicant must hold a valid Hong Kong visa or work permit.
Submit the application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department with proof of relationship, the sponsor’s status, and financial support evidence. Use the official online portal when available and ensure translations are certified.
A lawyer can help organize documents, correct submission errors, and respond to requests for information. While not mandatory, professional help often reduces processing delays and improves accuracy.
Processing generally takes 4-8 weeks for straightforward cases, longer for complex or incomplete submissions. Delays often occur when documents require additional verification or translation.
Commonly required documents include marriage certificates, birth certificates for children, and evidence of ongoing financial support. Documents must be authenticated or legalized if issued abroad and translated into Chinese or English.
A Dependant Pass is a residence permit tied to the sponsor, enabling living in Hong Kong. A visitor visa is temporary and does not grant long-term stay rights or work permission.
Dependant Pass holders generally cannot work unless they obtain separate work rights. Partners may pursue employment-based visas if they meet eligibility criteria.
Yes. Renewal should be completed before expiration to avoid gaps in residence status. You may need updated documents showing ongoing dependency and sponsor status.
Yes, the Immigration Department supports online submissions for many cases, with paper applications accepted in specific circumstances. Online submission often speeds up processing.
Applications have official fees set by the ImmD, plus potential translation, certification, or medical examination costs. Check the latest fee schedule on the official site for exact amounts.
Refusals can sometimes be reviewed or challenged via reconsideration with the Immigration Department, or pursued through judicial review in the Hong Kong courts. Consult a lawyer about the best path for your case.
Medical examinations may be required for certain ages or circumstances. The ImmD advises on whether a medical test is necessary based on the applicant’s profile and duration of stay.
Passes are usually issued for multiple years and renewable. Validity aligns with the sponsor's status and the applicant’s ongoing dependency.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Tai Ping Shan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Dependent Visa, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Tai Ping Shan, Hong Kong — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
