Law Summary

Introduction

This memorandum circular issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) outlines a new procedure for applying for visas to enter Hong Kong for employment or lawful purposes. It aims to streamline the visa application process by allowing direct submissions to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

Simplified Visa Application Procedure

• Explanation: The new procedure enables visa applications to be submitted directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department, bypassing the previous requirement of routing applications through British visa posts overseas.

• Key Definitions:

  • Visa Application: A formal request for permission to enter Hong Kong for employment or other lawful purposes.
  • Sponsor: An individual or entity in Hong Kong responsible for facilitating the visa application process.

• Important Requirements:

  • Applicants must complete a standard visa application form, which can be obtained from the British visa post or Hong Kong Immigration Department.
  • Applications can be submitted directly by the applicant or through a local sponsor.

• Procedures:

  • Upon receipt of the application, the Hong Kong Immigration Department will issue a visa letter.
  • If a local sponsor is involved, the visa letter will be sent to them for further action.
  • In the absence of a sponsor, the visa letter will be sent directly to the applicant.

Required Documentation Upon Arrival

• Explanation: Contract workers must present specific documents upon arrival in Hong Kong to comply with immigration requirements.

• Important Requirements:

  • Valid contract worker passport.
  • Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).
  • Employment contract.

• Consequences of Non-Compliance:

  • Failure to present the required documents may result in denial of entry or other immigration penalties.

Adoption and Implementation

• Adopted Date: The memorandum circular was officially adopted on October 28, 1994.

• Administrator: The circular is endorsed by Administrator Felicisimo O. Joson, Jr.

Key Takeaways

• The POEA Memorandum Circular No. 63 simplifies the visa application process for Hong Kong by allowing direct applications to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
• Applicants have the option to submit their applications directly or through a sponsor in Hong Kong.
• Essential documentation must be prepared and presented upon arrival in Hong Kong to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
• The memorandum became effective on October 28, 1994, as part of efforts to facilitate lawful employment in Hong Kong.