Entry for Residence as Dependants

Sponsors fall into two broad groups. Those admitted for employment, investment, study or under a capital-investment scheme can sponsor a spouse or civil partner and unmarried dependent children under 18. Hong Kong permanent residents and people with no limit of stay can additionally sponsor parents aged 60 or above.

Dependants admitted into Hong Kong are residing there, and the general rule is that a person who has ordinarily resided in Hong Kong for a continuous period of not less than seven years may apply for the right of abode in accordance with the law. Continuity of lawful ordinary residence is the key factor, so confirm your own circumstances against the official guidance.

The dependant route covers an unmarried dependent child only where they are under 18, so a 19-year-old would not qualify as a dependent child under this route. Check the official Immigration Department page for any other arrangements that may apply.

Yes. The dependant route lets an eligible sponsor bring a spouse or civil partner, provided you give reasonable proof of a genuine relationship. Confirm the documentary requirements on the official Immigration Department page.

The Immigration Department indicates a complete dependant application normally takes about six weeks to process, whereas employment and talent routes such as the GEP and Top Talent Pass Scheme indicate about four weeks. Confirm current timing on the official pages.