Birth Certificate Apostille for Hong Kong

Korean birth certificates apostilled for Hong Kong are required for employment visa applications, Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) applications, Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), Top Talent Pass (TTPS), university admission, and civil registration. Hong Kong is a Hague Convention member (since June 28, 2023) — distinct from mainland China which requires consular legalization. The document must be apostilled by MOFA and accompanied by a certified Traditional Chinese translation.

How to apostille a Korean birth certificate for Hong Kong

1Obtain a certified copy of the Korean birth certificate from the relevant Korean municipal office
2Submit to MOFA for apostille — standard 3–7 business days, express 1–2 business days
3Arrange a certified Traditional Chinese translation (繁體中文) by a Hong Kong–certified translator
4Submit to Hong Kong immigration, employer, or relevant authority

Requirements for Hong Kong

Korean birth certificate with official municipal seal
MOFA apostille (Hong Kong is a Hague Convention member since June 28, 2023)
Certified Traditional Chinese translation by a Hong Kong–certified translator
Document should typically be issued within 6 months of submission

What to look for in a specialist

Experience with Hong Kong immigration documentation for Korean applicants

Access to Hong Kong–certified Traditional Chinese translators

Knowledge of CIES, QMAS, TTPS, and Hong Kong employment visa requirements

Understanding that Hong Kong uses apostille (unlike mainland China which uses consular legalization)

Familiarity with Hong Kong civil registration and university admission requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an apostille for my Korean birth certificate in Hong Kong?

Yes. Hong Kong is a Hague Convention member (since June 28, 2023). MOFA apostille is required for Korean civil status documents used in HK immigration and other applications.

Is Hong Kong the same as mainland China for apostille purposes?

No. Hong Kong uses apostille (Hague Convention member). Mainland China does not — it requires MOFA authentication and Chinese Embassy/Consulate legalization (领事认증). Always confirm which jurisdiction applies to your application.