Many families in Hong Kong are eligible for the Hong Kong disability allowance and other government disability support, but never receive it — not because they do not qualify, but because the application process is unclear or information is scattered across different departments.
This guide brings everything together in one place. Below, we explain the Disability Allowance, the Registration Card for People with Disabilities, and the Hong Kong Police Care Card Scheme, including who is eligible, which forms are required, and how to apply step by step.
What is the Hong Kong Disability Allowance?
The Disability Allowance is part of Hong Kong’s Social Security Allowance Scheme. It is a non-means-tested monthly allowance designed to support individuals who are severely disabled and whose condition is expected to last for at least six months.
Monthly Allowance Amounts
- Normal Disability Allowance: approximately HKD 2,095 per month
- Higher Disability Allowance: approximately HKD 4,190 per month
This support is provided by the Hong Kong Government. It is not charity, and receiving it does not depend on household income or assets.
Who is Eligible for Disability Allowance?
An applicant may be eligible if they:
- Are certified as severely disabled by a doctor from the public health / Hospital Authority (HA) system
- Have a disabling condition expected to last at least six months
- Are a Hong Kong resident and meet the residence requirements
- Continue to reside in Hong Kong during receipt of the allowance
Children under the age of 18 are exempt from certain residence requirements, and applications may be made by a parent or legal guardian.
Important: The Registration Card for People with Disabilities and the Disability Allowance follow different application pathways and
medical requirements. They should not be treated as a single streamlined process.
Step 1: Medical Certification of Disability (CRR4)
Medical certification is a critical first step.
For the Registration Card, Form CRR4 may be completed by either a public doctor or a registered private medical practitioner in Hong Kong.
Key points to note:
- The CRR4 must be issued within the last six months
- The doctor must specify the type(s) of disability and the expected duration
- Multiple disability categories can be certified if applicable
Without a valid CRR4 or equivalent medical documentation, applications will not proceed.
👉 Download the CRR4 Medical Certification Form (PDF)
Step 2: Apply for the Registration Card for People with Disabilities (CRR3)
Once medical certification is ready, applicants complete Form CRR3, the application for the Registration Card for People with Disabilities.
This card is an official government-issued document confirming disability status. It is not a discount or privilege card, but it is often required when applying for services, concessions, or support programmes.
What to Prepare
- Completed CRR3 application form
- Medical certification (CRR4 or equivalent documentation)
- Copy of Hong Kong identity document
- A recent color passport-style photo
👉 Download the CRR3 Application Form for the Registration Card (PDF)
Applications can be submitted online or by post to the Central Registry for Rehabilitation.
Step 3: Applying for Disability Allowance (DA)
The Disability Allowance application is initiated and completed through a social worker using the Social Welfare Department’s application process.
The application form is not filled out directly by families.
A social worker coordinates:
- Submission of the application
- Supporting documentation
- Medical assessment arrangements with SWD
Medical certification for Disability Allowance must be made through the public health / Hospital Authority system, as certification is issued by the Director of Health or the Hospital Authority. Private doctor letters alone are not sufficient for Disability Allowance purposes. Because of the higher medical threshold, some individuals may qualify for the Registration Card for People with Disabilities but not meet the criteria for Disability Allowance.
👉 Download the Social Welfare Department Disability Allowance Guidance (PDF)
Normal vs Higher Disability Allowance: What’s the Difference?
Both allowances require certification of severe disability. However, Higher Disability Allowance has additional criteria.
To qualify for Higher Disability Allowance, the applicant must:
- Require constant attendance from others in daily life
- Not be receiving care in government-subsidised residential institutions, public hospitals, or boarding special schools
If an applicant is admitted to such institutions for extended periods, the allowance may be adjusted from higher to normal.
Hong Kong Police Care Card Scheme (MIP Care Card)
In addition to financial support, families should be aware of the Hong Kong Police Care Card Scheme.
This scheme allows individuals with mental disabilities to apply for a Mentally Incapacitated Person (MIP) Care Card.
Why the MIP Care Card Matters
If presented to police officers, the card helps them:
- Understand that the individual has a mental disability
- Adjust communication and interaction appropriately
- Reduce misunderstandings during police encounters
How to Apply
- Visit any police station in Hong Kong
- Request an application for the MIP Care Card
- Follow the police’s instructions for documentation and processing
Common Reasons Families Miss Out
Many eligible families do not receive these supports because:
- They are unaware that the Disability Card and Disability Allowance have different medical thresholds
- They assume all medical certification can be completed by private doctors
- They are unaware that Disability Allowance applications must go through a social worker
- The steps involve multiple departments and forms
- Information is not shared clearly in one place
Families who need deeper, system-level detail may also find the SNNHK Public Service Navigator helpful, particularly for understanding the roles of social workers, public hospitals, and referral pathways.
Understanding the process early can make a meaningful difference.
Government disability support in Hong Kong exists to help families navigate daily life with dignity and stability. While the process may feel complex at first, each step has a clear purpose — and help is available at every stage.
If you or your child may be eligible, it is worth taking the time to explore the disability training in Hong Kong and ensure no support is missed.
This article is intended for general information only and does not replace advice from the Social Welfare Department or medical professionals.