7 continuous years completed, but back in the 80's... Still valid?

[jblocktwo]

Hi All,

I've just scoured the forums and can't find any threads with people in the same situation as me, so here's yet another immigration question that I'm hoping someone can help me with

I'm a Brit currently working in HK on a work visa which means I'm tied to the company who have sponsored me, but I'm looking to leave... I'm now wondering if I am eligible to apply for ROA or at least RTL so that I'd be free to work for any company.

I've lived in HK a total of 14 years on and off, with one continuous 8 year period, but it was back in the 80's (84 - 92) and I wasn't old enough to care about these things back then . I was a dependant on my fathers work visa throughout that period, and he is now a permanent ID holder based on the same 8 year period. I would be able to prove my residency over those years with old passports and school records.

My question is this: having not applied for ROA or RTL immediately after that 8 year period in the 80's, am I totally disqualified from applying now? If ROA is out of the question, would RTL still be within reach?

Thanks to everyone in advance!

[PDLM]

Since you'd have to talk to them anyway then I'd say go to [email protected]

But my reading of paras 11 to 15 on this page suggests to me that you are out of luck. You had to claim status within 12 months of the handover.