Hong Kong Family Visa Rules 2025

In 2025, Hong Kong continues to offer entry for residence as dependants to the close family members of eligible visa holders, allowing families to live together in the city. This arrangement applies to holders of certain long‑term visas — such as those under the General Employment Policy (GEP), Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS), Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP), Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS), and approved investment‑related visas.

Eligible dependants can normally live, study, and in many cases work in Hong Kong. However, the Immigration Department applies strict eligibility criteria, and applications are assessed on a case‑by‑case basis. Some categories of visa holders — such as foreign domestic helpers and imported workers under the Supplementary Labour Scheme — cannot sponsor dependants.

Who is Eligible?

Under the current Dependant Policy, eligible sponsors may apply for entry of the following family members as dependants:

• Legally married spouse (same‑sex marriages are recognised only if validly entered into in a jurisdiction that legally permits them, but Hong Kong does not allow same‑sex marriage registration locally)
• Unmarried children under 18 years old (including legally adopted children)
• Parents aged 60 or above — only if the sponsor is a Hong Kong permanent resident and the parent is genuinely dependent on them for financial support and daily care. Mainland Chinese parents must apply via the One‑Way Permit scheme administered by Mainland authorities.

Key sponsor requirements:

• Hold an eligible long‑term visa (GEP, TTPS, QMAS, ASMTP, TechTAS, investment visa, etc.)
• Have sufficient financial means to support dependants without public assistance
• Have suitable accommodation in Hong Kong
• Be able to prove the claimed family relationship with official documentation

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What documents are required?

The Immigration Department requires both the sponsor and the dependant to provide supporting documents. These typically include:

From the dependant applicant:

• Valid passport and recent passport‑sized photograph
• Proof of relationship to the sponsor (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or adoption papers)
• Completed Application Form ID 997

From the sponsor:

• Copy of Hong Kong identity card
• Proof of visa status (e.g., visa label, landing slip, or approval letter)
• Evidence of financial means (e.g., employment contract, recent payslips, bank statements)
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy agreement, property ownership documents)

Notes:

• All documents not in English or Chinese must be accompanied by a certified translation.
• The Immigration Department may request additional information or documents depending on the circumstances of the case.

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How long does the process take?

• Standard processing time: 6 to 8 weeks from receipt of a complete application.
• Processing can take longer during peak relocation periods (e.g., June–August) or if additional checks are needed.
• Applicants should apply well in advance, especially if aligning with school enrolment dates or intended travel plans.

What rights do dependants have?

Once a dependant visa is granted:

• The dependant’s stay is tied to the sponsor’s visa validity — if the sponsor’s visa expires or is revoked, the dependant’s permission to stay will normally also end.
• Spouses of most employment, investment, and talent visa holders can work in Hong Kong without needing a separate work visa. Exceptions: spouses of foreign domestic helpers, imported workers under the Supplementary Labour Scheme, and student visa holders are not automatically entitled to work.
• Children can attend local or international schools without a separate student visa.
• After 7 years of continuous ordinary residence in Hong Kong, dependants may apply for permanent residency (Right of Abode) under the Immigration Ordinance, provided they meet all statutory requirements.

How can Ask.Legal help?

Ask.Legal simplifies family immigration to Hong Kong by using AI to:

• Explain visa categories in plain language
  
  
• Flag missing documents or common mistakes
  
  
• Tailor document checklists for GEP, QMAS, and other visa holders
  
  
• Keep you updated on immigration rule changes
  
  

For more on long-term settlement, read our guide on Hong Kong permanent residency eligibility.

Need help navigating this issue? Check out Ask.Legal — our AI-powered legal assistant is ready to help 24/7.

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