Legal questions, answered
Plain-language answers about Hong Kong law — free, in three languages.
What can I do if my employer has not paid my wages in Hong Kong?
Under the Employment Ordinance, wages must be paid within 7 days of the end of the wage period — late payment is a criminal offence. You can file a claim with the Labour Department's Labour Relations Division, which offers free conciliation; unresolved claims go to the Minor Employment Claims Adjudication Board (≤HK$15,000, up to 10 claimants) or the Labour Tribunal. Keep your contract, payslips and any messages as evidence. Interest accrues on late wages, and if your employer is insolvent you may apply to the Protection of Wages on Insolvency Fund. This is general information, not legal advice.
229My landlord refuses to return my rental deposit — what are my options?
First check your tenancy agreement for the deposit terms and document the property's condition at handover. Write to the landlord formally demanding return of the deposit within a set period. If they still refuse and the amount is HK$75,000 or less, you can file at the Small Claims Tribunal — it is designed for self-representation with modest fees, and lawyers are not allowed. Deductions must reflect actual loss (unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear), which the landlord must prove. This is general information, not legal advice.
202How does divorce work in Hong Kong and how long does it take?
You can petition for divorce in Hong Kong if the marriage has broken down irretrievably, shown by facts such as one year's separation with consent, two years' without, unreasonable behaviour or adultery. You generally must have been married at least one year. An uncontested divorce usually takes around 4–6 months from filing to decree absolute; contested cases, or disputes over children, maintenance and property, take considerably longer. Mediation is encouraged and often reduces cost. This is general information, not legal advice.
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