The Immigration Department will implement its interim arrangement for applications from a party in a foreign legally recognised same-sex relationship for entry for residence as dependants in Hong Kong before the completion of a policy review.

The department said the Government is reviewing the dependant immigration policy to give effect to the judgment handed down by the Court of Final Appeal in QT v Director of Immigration on July 4.

Under the interim arrangement, the Director will grant a party in a foreign legally recognised same-sex relationship with an eligible sponsor permission to remain in Hong Kong for one year or in line with their sponsor's limit of stay, whichever is shorter.

During this period, the concerned party can study, work or do business in Hong Kong without the need for prior permission from the Director.

The department reiterated the Director has all along adopted the meaning of spouse as a party to a marriage consisting of one man and one woman as recognised by the laws of Hong Kong.

It said the interim measure does not pre-empt the policy review's way forward and should not be regarded as an equivalent to giving legal recognition to same-sex relationships under Hong Kong laws.

The Government respects the Court of Final Appeal's decision on the QT case and will strive to complete the policy review within reasonable time, it added.