Help! I've got a job! Advice please!

[crossecottage]

I have been here for 18 months on a Dependents visa. Yesterday I was offered a job (full time) in a local school teaching English.

How do I go about getting my dependents visa changed to a working visa?
How long does the process usually take?
I have a degree, but my certificate is in the UK. I can get it when I go back in August but will that give me time?

I also have some questions about getting a helper and training to teach but will post those on the Living in Hong Kong forum.

Thanks for any advice you can give me!

[mingming]

If your dependent visa allows you to work in Hong Kong, you don't need to change the visa to a work visa. However, if it doesn't, I'm afraid you can work legally. The stamp on your passport should mention it. Since July 1, 2003, all dependent visa doesn't allow to work in Hong Kong...you'd better to check it out.

Just my two cents, maybe someone could correct me.

[PDLM]

maybe someone could correct me.

OK - I will.

For dependents of all types whose visa was first issued before 1 July 2003: you may work without the need for further paperwork.

For dependents who are dependent on a Permanent Resident, regardless of when the visa was first issued: you may work without further paperwork.

For dependents who are dependent on non-permanent residents (e.g. people on an employment visa) and the dependent visa was first issued on or after 1 July 2003: you may not work using that visa; you would need to apply for an Employment Visa in your own right, meeting the same criteria as any other applicant.

[mercury_element]

hi,
hey i also got my dependents visa on may'04, and in that its written very clearly that "employment is not permitted".
if its the same on ur visa, u can apply for employment's visa and then can get permission on the existing visa.
I also got the job, and have applied for employment visa.
they take normally 4-6 weeks in visa processing.
u have to submit some documents along with the application form.
its mentioned in the form what all documents are required.
as far ur degrere is concerned, u better ask that with the immigration department, coz with application, u also have to submit ur degree.
all the best

[Reni]

At the mo, I am waiting for my second permission from the immid to work. For my 1st company they gave me a permission letter saying that they allowed me to work for this 1 particular company.

And this time, they asked me whether I want a work visa or just a letter. So, I think now, its a lot easier for us, dependat v. holders to seek employment. Good luck every1!!!!

[crossecottage]

Thank you but I was already aware that I am not permitted to work on my dependents visa.

I went to Immigration myself and they tell me it is an upgrade from my dependents visa to lift the working restriction. They still need some documents, contracts, letter of reference etc. but as it is a teaching post as long as the Education Department accept me then it should be no problem (the ED Dept need the original of my degree). So it is not as long a process as the full work permit. They were very helpful (unlike when I was trying to sort out my helper!) and have marked it urgent. I went in one day and they called me back the next day, very efficient.

Just wanted to let other dependents out there know that it is not entirely impossible to work within the law! I am waiting for my degree certificate to arrive from home but will let you know how I get on.

[tex]

just wondering what the law is regarding dependent visa holders post 7/03 who would like to free lance.

[KnowItAll]

>> dependent visa holders post 7/03 who would like to free lance.

No can do. You need to have a work permit.

I do know a number of people who freelance internationally, using elance.

Also, I'm not sure what the issues are if you say.. have a product which someone wants to buy -- say you have an article which you have written, would selling it be the same as selling your flat screen telly?