Working on Dependant Visa

Posted by RachRobin (243 days ago)

My husband and I both work for the same company, in two seperate outlets.
We came to HK on his working visa with me as his dependant - the company said it was easier than applying for 2 work permits. My husband's work visa states "no change of employer allowed" whereas as mine simply states "dependant".
I am not happy in my employment, and I am keen to seek other options. Can I do this with a dependant visa? I do not have a signed contract, only my husband does. I am covered for medical and relocation etc. in my husband's contract as his spouse.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by Thames (243 days ago)

I have had numerous jobs on a Dependent Visa so I'm pretty sure you too have every right to. But just so you know you have the absolutely correct answer for your particular circumstances, ask the Immigration Dept direct - they're very helpful and efficient.

And if your husband's medical policy covers you as his spouse, then that shouldn't cease just because you stop working for the company.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by evildeeds (243 days ago)

Dependent Visa - work wherever you like, actually you are far less restricted than your husband! Crazy but true.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Ed (243 days ago)

Suggest you check with the immigration dept on that one... I believe that rule changed in 1998 and you cannot just work anywhere anymore (unless your spouse is a citizen of HK). I believe the employer still must show that they cannot fill the position with a local hire

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by evildeeds (241 days ago)

Not quite true Ed, no need to prove that a local cannot fill the position. In fact the rules are pretty clear on the immigration website. There is no prohibition of employment and if you also read the employers guides on employees and visas it state in English that there is no restriction on employing those on dependent visas, including those that are dependent on spouses working visas.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by Shoe Girl (241 days ago)

Yes, RachRobin, Evildeeds is absolutely right, as long as your husband's employment visa is valid, as a dependant you can work wherever you like.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by RachRobin (241 days ago)

Thanks everyone! No I can start looking......!

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by associates (240 days ago)

Yes .........one of the strange anomalies of the HK Immigration System..your husband cannot seek other employment under his visa but you (as a dependant) can have as many different employers as your heart desires and as the contracts you sign/agree allow......when changing employment consider whether you will effect your husband's job..it will not effect your visa UNLESS, your husband is punished by his employer for your actions (i.e. by dismissal).


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email : weirlaw@hongkonglaw.com
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(I am based in Hong Kong)