In an unprecedented move for the city, Hong Kong’s high court Wednesday granted a British lesbian woman a spousal visa, making it possible for future same-sex couples to pursue additional legal rights in the future.
“Today’s ruling is a very small step for us, but it’s one giant step for equality in Hong Kong,” said judicial review applicant QT. “It is my hope that this case will pave the way for greater recognition of same-sex unions in Hong Kong.”
Greater recognition that could potentially include inheritance rights, public housing and other spousal benefits as permitted under local law.
QT and her wife SS entered into a civil partnership in the United Kingdom in 2011. They were together for more than seven years at the time of their union. When SS was offered a job in Hong Kong, the couple decided to make the move together. Unfortunately, QT was denied a spousal visa that would have granted her the right to work and live in the city with her partner.
“By upholding the rights of all people in Hong Kong, regardless of sexual orientation, to obtain dependent visas for their spouses to live and work in this city, this ruling strengthens Hong Kong’s ability to attract global talent and its competitiveness as Asia’s preeminent global centre for commerce,” a statement read from law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell.
Wednesday’s court order only applies to expatriate same-sex couples at this time.