Questions abt applying for HK Permanent ID: Unique Situation

Question

Hi everyone! I'm writing a post on here in hopes of finding some answers from others who might have similar situations regarding their HK identity and going to the immigration offices. I've spent hours looking at the immigration website and even emailed them without getting any answers.

I'm of Chinese descent, born in the mainland, to an HK since birth father (my dad was also Canadian). My mom also got her HK permanent ID before I was born. I was in HK briefly and left to settle in Canada (I'm also Canadian) before turning 11, so I currently only have an Entry Permit and a Mainland Travel Permit for HK. Both are expired. I do not have any sort of citizenship number, which makes things complicated... I'm now going to go back to HK for the first time since and I'm over 18 and under 21. I want to get my HK permanent ID and renew my Mainland Travel Permit. How do I go about this?

1. Do I need a verification of eligibility for the right to abode, or can I submit my applications without one? I'm worried because the verification would take too long and I won't be able to stay in HK for that long. But I am quite evidently Chinese and have the right to abode because my parents had HK identity when I was born. If I submit my application without the verification, will it be accepted?

2. For my unique situation, should I apply for a renewal or a registration for HKID, passport, and mainland travel permit? Am I able to apply for multiple of these documents simultaneously, or do I have to apply and receive them in a specific order?

3. Since I don't have a citizenship number, how should I fill out the forms or the online application? Moreover, how should I book appointments online to go to the government office if I don't have an HK citizenship number? Can I do a walk-in then?

4. Of course, I'm not expecting anyone to know this, but on the off chance someone does, would anyone know which form I'm supposed to fill out for my unique situation to apply for permanent ID?

Thanks in advance!!!!!!!

Answer

Your situation is indeed unique, but here’s a detailed breakdown based on Hong Kong Immigration Department procedures and similar cases.

1. Verification of Eligibility for Right of Abode:

For someone of Chinese descent with parents who were permanent residents at the time of your birth, you generally have the right of abode automatically. However, the Hong Kong Immigration Department may still request verification if you lack other supporting documents.
It is possible to submit a HKID registration application without prior verification, but the department may ask for proof of your parents’ HK status at the time of your birth. Bring all relevant documents such as your parents’ HKID copies, your birth certificate, and your expired permits.
Processing times may vary, so it is advisable to provide as much evidence as possible to avoid delays.

2. Applying for HKID, Passport, and Mainland Travel Permit:

Since you do not yet hold a permanent HKID, you will need to register for a first-time HKID, not renew.
For the Mainland Travel Permit, this is a renewal/application process that can usually be done once your HKID registration is in place.
For a HK passport, you must first be recognized as a permanent resident and hold a valid HKID before applying. Therefore, the sequence is:

Step 1: Apply for HKID registration
Step 2: Use HKID to apply for Mainland Travel Permit renewal
Step 3: Apply for HK passport once HKID is issued

3. Forms, Online Applications, and Booking Appointments:

Since you do not have a HKID or passport, you cannot use the online system that requires a HKID number. For your case, the recommended approach is to visit the Immigration Department in person for first-time registration.
Walk-in appointments may be allowed, but it is highly recommended to check availability in advance as some offices have designated slots for complex cases.
Bring your birth certificate, parents’ HKID copies, any expired Entry Permits/Mainland Travel Permits, and proof of identity documents from Canada.

4. Correct Forms to Fill Out:

For first-time HKID registration of someone over 11 years old, use the Form ROP145 (Registration of Persons). This is the standard form for first-time permanent residents applying for HKID when they have proof of right of abode.
If in doubt, the Immigration staff can advise during your in-person visit. They are accustomed to handling unique cases involving overseas-born children of HK permanent residents.

Additional Tips:

Carry both original documents and photocopies.
If possible, prepare a short explanation letter detailing your circumstances and previous permits.
Expect some processing time; in complex cases, it could take several weeks to verify eligibility.

In summary, for your unique case: apply first for your HKID in person using Form ROP145, bring all supporting documents for your parents’ HK status, then proceed with Mainland Travel Permit renewal and HK passport application in sequence.

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