[dessie]

Hi,

I arrived in Hong Kong in August 2003. Since it was after the magic date of July 01, 2003 (and my spouse was on an employment visa at the time), I was granted a one-year Dependant Visa with the rider 'Employment not permitted'. Subsequently, my spouse became a Permanent Resident (PR). However, when I applied for renewal of my visa--which was after he became a PR--I was granted a three year Dependant Visa, again with the rider 'Employment not permitted'.

Does the immigration Department's restriction on employment apply uniformly to all those who arrived in HK after 01/07/2003 - irrespective of spouse's PR status? Although I am a professional with over 8 years of experience, I am unable to look for a job in HK because of the nature of my visa. Would be grateful if someone out there could throw some light on the subject.

[carang]

your best bet would be to direct your question to HK immig staff. they will be happy to answer your question. and give you the necessary paperwork to change your status.

[PDLM]

I suspect you needed to fill in a different form, since the nature of your sponsor has changed - you're not asking for a renewal, you are asking, effectively, for a change in sponsor.

But as Carang says: enquiry@immd.gov.hk

[meemiathai]

I think PDLM is right.
You sure should be allowed to work here.

[PSMaverick]

The Immi Dept changed the rules to the effect that even if you are a dependent visa holder, u still have to go through the same formalities of an expat employee, i.e the company should prove that they cant finder a suitable employee in the local pool and the job requires your special skills. Thats how I understand it.

[PSMaverick]

And yes I believe it does apply to all dependents who arrived after that " magic date".And it applies until u yourfself becomes a permanent resident.