Dependant Visa vs Working Visa

[peisen]

hi,

is there anyone out there that could enlighten me on this "Dependant Visa" thing...its kinda confusing(especially with the recent changes in the clause...)

i am presently working in HongKong with a working visa, and i would like my wife to come over to join me in HK...so my question is:
(1) do i need my present company to apply for Dependant Visa, or can i apply it myself ?
(2) can my wife look for employment here with the Dependant Visa? (she has a degree in International Supply Chain Management from Australia)

ps

[shri]

PS,

The company does not need to sponsor the dependant because you (not the company) are responsible for your dependant. The immigration evaluates your ability to support the dependant and usually gives the Visa without any problems.

The new rule is that the dependants cannot work on that visa. They will have to get their jobs and the company will have to sponsor them, just like any other job related visa.

I'd definately recommend emailing immigration and asking them for more info.

http://www.info.gov.hk/immd

They are very responsive.

[shri]

A clarification, she can look for work, but cant actually work until immd approves the change in status.

[peisen]

shri...thanks for the info.

by the way, will it be easier for the (future)company to convert the Dependant Visa to a working visa, or direct application for a working visa for her?

ps

[goodfood]

Another point to add to this: the change in policy about dependants ( needing to seek permission before being allowed to work) would only apply to dependants whose Applications reach the Immigration department on or after July 1 2003

http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/20030702.htm

Which means ( if I've got that right) dependants who have come in before July 1 2003 and are already working in HK, can continue to do so without seeking permission

[shri]

Originally posted by peisen
shri...thanks for the info.

by the way, will it be easier for the (future)company to convert the Dependant Visa to a working visa, or direct application for a working visa for her?

ps

No clue. Its a brand new process and I'm not too sure.

Several of the larger and more influential chambers of commerce are lobbying to make it easier for dependants to work. Delegations from the US, UK and a few other chambers have asked govt for clarification.

[peisen]

hey guys...(shri & goodfood) thanks for your time...

[shri]

Originally posted by peisen
hey guys...(shri & goodfood) thanks for your time...

A beer is a more sincere form of gratitude than mere bytes.

[peisen]

beer, no problem... its good to have a friend in hk...email me anytime.

[gilly23]

Any difference with applying for a dependant visa and applying or residency? My wife is a HK citizen and im Canadian. Does she have to be in HK in the meantime we process all the documents to HK immigration.