Parenting - Sassy Mama Hong Kong - 1

Baby’s 100 Days Celebration: Ideas For Party Planning And Customs To Know

Sassy Mama — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 22:00:18 +0000

The 100 days celebration is a significant milestone in the life of a newborn! Whether you’re hosting or attending a 100 days party, here’s what to know about the customs and traditions as well as inspiration on hosting your celebration and even where to find a 100 days cake.

Congratulations, mama! You’ve just crossed the fourth trimester — the first three months after delivery. Now that you’ve grown used to the sleepless nights (somewhat, at least!) and mastered breastfeeding, you can consider organising your baby’s 100-day celebration. If you are planning (or attending) a 100 days party, here’s what you need to consider.

Jump to:
100 Days Celebration Customs And Traditions
100 Days Celebration Party Venues
100 Days Cakes
100 Days Party Decorations
100 Days Gifts And Presents

100 Days Celebration Customs And Traditions

A 100-day celebration is traditional in Chinese culture, as it is in some other Asian countries as well. While get-togethers are also common at the end of the baby’s first month, the 100-day one is preferred because it marks the end of the most vulnerable period for new babies and mums or, in some cases, an end to confinement.

This celebration used to be fairly traditional with symbolic gifts, gold jewellery and red packets handed down from the older family members and well-wishers, as well as prayers and auspicious food being offered by the parents to their ancestors. In addition to this, often a lock of the baby’s hair would be cut and the bub would get his or her Chinese name (even if the Western name was already announced). The proud parents would also distribute red eggs (symbols of fertility) and pickled ginger to the guests. Nowadays, things are not quite as traditional and each couple is free to make up its own family traditions for this special day.

100 Days Celebration Party Venues

The first decision, after deciding to host a 100 days celebration, of course, is deciding on a party venue and catering options. There’ll be babies and kids present (obviously!) but at the same time it isn’t strictly a kids’ party, so you’ll need to consider space to play, baby changing, feeding facilities and your baby’s nap schedule. Also, it should go without saying that you’re hosting a celebration whilst looking after a three-month-old baby, so you’ll want to consider how much you can take on and delegate duties where you can!

Residential Clubhouses

If your apartment building has a clubhouse this is probably your easiest option. Close to home (for naps, delivering decorations and getting presents home), and it lets you be flexible to choose how big or small you want to go when it comes to everything from event decorations to party catering, 100-day celebration cakes and more.

Private Kitchens

There are some great private kitchens around Hong Kong, perfect for hosting your 100-day celebration. This can give you the best of both worlds — the privacy for your party and the experts taking care of the cooking and cleaning up!

Hong Kong Hotels And Restaurants

Many Hong Kong hotels have function rooms well equipped for 100-day celebrations. Shangri-La, Hotel Icon and The Ritz-Carlton are all popular options for Hong Kong families. Likewise, you can keep things simple by booking a family-friendly restaurant or even a weekend brunch!

100 Days Celebration Cakes

No party is complete without a decadent cake and a 100-day celebration for your baby is no different! There’s no shortage of cake shops and patisseries in Hong Kong, but we do love the 100-day cake options on offer from Complete Deelite, Pheonix Sweets and Sweet Secrets.

100 Days Party Decorations

Most party supply shops are well stocked in decorations for traditional celebrations like a baby’s first 100 days. Whether you want helium balloons or prefer a floral affair, the 100-day party is a celebration to be remembered and so the sky is the limit when it comes to decorations. You might want to consider eco-friendly party ideas as well.

100 Days Gifts And Presents

As in most cultures, it’s customary to bring a gift for the new baby at a 100-day celebration. Close family members and friends may gift the baby accessories such as a longevity pendant and bangle bracelets for wrists and ankles, while others might choose to give more practical gifts like baby clothes, children’s shoes, hats and toys, along with presents for the new mum. For more 100-day gift inspiration check out Sassy Mama’s guide to gifts for new mums and babies.

Sassy Mama Tip: If you’d like to keep to Chinese traditions, wrap gifts in red paper to symbolise luck, theme your gift around the Chinese zodiac or offer a lai see packet (following the rules of new notes, no coins, even numbers except the number four!).

Editor’s Note: ” Baby’s 100 Days Celebration: Ideas For Party Planning And Customs To Know” was most recently updated in July 2024 by Fashila Kanakka, with thanks to Anita Balagopalan and Jess Mizzi for their contribution.

The post Baby’s 100 Days Celebration: Ideas For Party Planning And Customs To Know appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Top Baby Tracking Apps For Pregnancy, Nursing, Bath Time and Diapers

Sassy Mama — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 22:00:19 +0000

There is so much to stay on top of as a new parent (especially for those of us with multiple kids) when it comes to tracking your baby’s milestones. Here at Sassy Mama we’ve curated a list of top pregnancy, labour and baby tracking apps. These will help you monitor the growth of your bub, from bump to baby.

There’s no rest for the wicked, but as we mamas have found, there’s no rest even for really wonderful mothers either! When you’re running around sleep deprived and covered in curious substances, it can be tough remembering when (and on what side!) to feed the bub, let alone keep track of all those dirty nappies (and nap times).

Luckily, we’ve rounded up our favourite baby tracking apps to chart their development (right from their little heartbeats on a scan to when they are running circles around us!) – something that definitely comes in handy at your next obstetrician or paediatrician visit. In addition to the nitty gritty details about availability and cost, we’ve also enlisted our own team of Sassy Mamas to share how they used the apps to make their first couple of years a little easier. Take a look below!

Pregnancy and Baby Tracker – WTE – Regularly updated by ‘What To Expect’ Medical Review Board

From the parenting juggernaut behind the massive bestseller the What to Expect series, this customisable pregnancy app includes an award-winning due date calculator and an archive of guides to each month of your child’s development. Once your baby arrives, it not only allows you to record your darling’s sleeping, feeding, and necessary diaper change patterns. There’s even medical advice and playtime ideas for when your brain’s just too tired to come up with another game. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, never fear – you’ll get access to the What to Expect forum where you can ask other parents for help, or just rant to them about the two hours of sleep you got last night.

Sassy Mama says: “I love What-to-Expect’s Baby Tracking App because the interface is clear and simple to use and navigate around. With my mummy-brain, I find the ‘vaccinations’ button super helpful as it keeps me updated with those necessary (but painful) jabs!” – Min, Sassy Mama Singapore

Download: Free, available on Android and Apple.

Baby Centre – Free week-by-week pregnancy tracker with baby name suggestions to height predictors

Baby Centre will truly be your parenting partner right from the get-go. Starting from when you’re even thinking of having a baby – you can use the ovulation calendar and look out for early pregnancy symptoms – to needing tips to deal with pregnancy aches and pains, to settling in to life as a parent. Satiate your curiosity with the Chinese Gender Predictor, read testimonials about coping with miscarriages, and find out which beauty products are safe to use when pregnant. We can’t imagine what you might need from a baby tracker that you can’t get from Baby Centre.

Sassy Mama says: “I still use Baby Centre – their content is also amazing. It helped me during my pregnancy and even now provides some excellent tips to help me understand my 9 year old.” – Mansha, Sassy Mama Hong Kong

Download: Free, available on Apple and Android.

Baby Feed Timer – Newborn app designed by and for breastfeeding mums

Recommended by NHS midwives in the UK, this handy-dandy app is perfect for sleep-deprived mamas who can’t remember their own last name, it reminds you what side to start on, when you’re due for the next feed, and much more. It also keeps track of bottle feedings, pumping sessions, diaper changes, and sleep timings, with in-depth charts and analysis.

Sassy Mama says: “I love how simple and uncomplicated this app is, with giant buttons that are easy to tap with one hand when I’ve got a squirming hungry baby in the other. It also syncs up with other phones so my husband knows when to feed her if I’m out and about.” – Kate, Sassy Mama Singapore

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

Baby Connect – Baby tracking app for ease of communication between caregivers

Voted “Best Baby Tracking App in 2022”, this is perfect for the mama-on-the-go. Baby Connect allows you to create an online baby tracker that can be updated remotely by anyone you grant access to: your husband, your parents, your helper, etc. so you can be out and about and still not miss a single thing. It even has its own in-app messaging tool! Baby Connect allows you to record nursing times and diaper changes as well as mood swings and milestones, and turn your updates into easily digestible graphs and charts. You’ll even be able to make a profile for your child with relevant information about their allergies, blood type and birthday – everything’s all in one place!

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Android and Apple.

Baby Daybook – Monitor your baby’s schedule with a user-friendly interface

Now available on Apple – and compatible with Apple Watch and widgets – as well as Android, Baby Daybook is a means of recording your newborn’s every last move, from diaper changes to breastfeeding sessions with the unique option of adding in crucial notes to record irregularities. For mamas with twins or triplets, Baby Daybook’s got you covered with multiple baby profiles that you can sync up with your husband or helper’s accounts so that they know exactly what’s going on every second of the day. With customisable app colours, the team behind Baby Daybook has even been thoughtful enough to develop a darker interface so you don’t wake up your little with a blast of light during their nighttime feedings.

Download: Free, available on Android and Apple.

Read More: Domestic Helpers In Hong Kong

Baby Breastfeeding Tracker – Stay organised with this nursing tracker app

From the minds of American Baby magazine comes the Baby Nursing app, your free, be-all, end-all breastfeeding app… and so much more! With options to chart your baby’s nursing progress as well as relevant doctors appointments and potty breaks, don’t forget to record your milestones with their in-built sound, photo and video capabilities! If you’re absolutely in love with the app, there’s even more paid-for content that will allow you to keep on top of bottle feedings, pumping, sleeping and more. Data can even be exported into a customisable Excel spreadsheet.

Download: Free, plus a paid-for upgrade, available on Android and Apple.

Sprout Pregnancy and Sprout Baby – Multiple apps for tracking different stages of child progression

Sprout is renowned for its physician-recommended baby and pregnancy apps with a number of awards from their fans at Time.com, Babble and even Apple themselves. They’ve got you covered from foetus to baby’s first steps, with an easy-to-use interface and awesome capabilities like multiple child profiles, doctor visit planners and daily tips with their pregnancy and baby trackers. Developed by mothers-to-be and doctors to guide you down the path of motherhood, and after creating a beautiful list of memories with your partner, you can send it off to be transformed into a gorgeous hardbound book for your family to treasure forever. Sprout Pregnancy also comes with a handy contraction time and kick counter.

Download (Sprout Pregnancy): Free trial, available on Apple and Android

Download (Sprout Baby Tracker): Free one week trial, available on Apple and Android.

Feed Baby – Award-winning breastfeeding tracker app for new parents

It’s easy to forget things when you’re operating on infant-oriented sleep, but with Feed Baby at least you can monitor your baby’s meal times, baths, and bottle feeds. This tracker creates colourful timelines, graphs and reports based around your tot’s eating habits, even when they start on solid foods. With customisable themes in powder Vintage Pink, periwinkle Baby Blue or the more solemn Dark Knight, you and your hubby will be able to sync up your data between devices to make sure you both know exactly what’s going on wherever you are.

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

Baby Tracker: Newborn Log – Highly recommended all-in-one app including baby milestones

Over a million parents have downloaded (and raved about) this app, so it must be worth checking out. The Newborn Log has a comprehensive and convenient feeding tracker that has a notes section for preferences and allergic reactions, it tracks diaper changes and your baby’s sleep schedule that you can share with a caregiver as it allows for syncing among multiple devices without compromising your privacy. Plus, you can make custom categories for your baby’s first smile, tooth, or step, log vaccine shots and temperature checks, and quickly identify patterns and abnormalities with the Data Interpretation section. What more could you need?

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

More Pregnancy & Baby Apps: Apps To Help You Through Labour & Contractions

These are specific apps that you will probably need to download only for the last few months of your pregnancy. So that you don’t need to go scouting for recommendations when you’re in your last trimester, we have rounded some of the apps that you should download as you approach your due date.

Full Term Contraction Timer – Available to download on Apple
Contraction Master – Available to download on Apple
GentleBirth – Available to download on Apple and Android
Freya Surge Timer – Available to download on Apple and Android
Contraction Timer And Counter 9m – Available to download on Apple and Android

Editor’s Note: “Top Baby Tracking Apps For Pregnancy, Nursing, Bath Time and Diapers” was originally written by Megan Hills in 2016 and most recently updated in July 2024 by Veena Raghunath. Thanks to Nikita Mishra for her contribution.

This is part of a special series, “All About Breastfeeding In Hong Kong“. For more posts on breastfeeding in Hong Kong, click here.

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The Best Baby Strollers In Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them

Sassy Mama — Tue, 07 May 2024 22:00:22 +0000

Call it a stroller, buggy, pram, pushchair or what you will, this set of wheels will be the most important one in your life for some years to come! From Chicco to Stokke BABYZEN YOYO2, Combi, Bugaboo, Cybex and many more, there are many great toddler and baby strollers to choose from in Hong Kong!

A baby stroller is often one of the most essential baby purchases you will make as a parent. Just as each baby is different, so is each stroller and the ‘stroller-needs’ of every family. They are critical in your baby’s early years (and even later when you’re dealing with a tired toddler or pre-schooler!). If you are a mum who plans well in advance, we would advise you to try using a few options (the new mums in your baby due date club would love it if you offer to push their bub around!). From lightweight umbrellas and buggies to complete heavy-duty travel systems, narrow city strollers to big, twin or combi buggies and many more, find the stroller that is right for you.

Points To Consider While Choosing A Stroller

How do you know which pram is suitable for you? There are a few factors to keep in mind:

For what ages is it suitable and is it newborn-compatible?

Newborns need to lie flat and strollers meant for them have to recline completely. If you’re in the market for a stroller for a toddler who only needs it for a quick nap on a hot day, an umbrella stroller that doesn’t recline much should work well.

How easy is it to fold the stroller?

Ease of foldability is an important deciding factor, especially in Hong Kong, when you need to navigate public transport. The size the stroller folds down to matters as well. Get used to terms like one-hand fold, compact fold, cabin-fold (for flights), etc. and watch videos to understand how your chosen stroller scores in this department.

How heavy is it to carry?

The weight of the stroller matters if you walk a lot in Hong Kong. While a heavier stroller usually means a less bumpy ride for your baby, it’s a nightmare at MTR exits that don’t have lifts.

Does it allow you to attach a car seat?

If you own a car or take a lot of taxis, it’s good to get a stroller that’s car seat-compatible. Also, if you travel home frequently where car seat laws are stricter than in Hong Kong.

Can you attach a buggy board to it?

Planning a second (or third) baby? You might want to check if a buggy board can be added on to your stroller.

Does it have storage?

Having a baby means carrying food, diapers, a changing mat and a whole lot more. A good stroller should be able to accommodate all of that, along with your weekly grocery bags!

How much does it cost?

This plays a key role in your decision. Do keep an eye out for second-hand strollers that come up for sale on Facebook groups and in your baby groups.

There are some non-negotiable factors while choosing a stroller, like safety of the buckling system, manoeuvrability and sturdiness. There are other factors too, like how long you plan to use the stroller, but it’s always a possibility that your baby has different plans from you! Keeping whatever is possible to plan in advance, we’ve spoken to different mums around town and lined up our favourite baby strollers in Hong Kong!

Cybex – Compact and stylish strollers with optimal functionality

Cybex is known for merging innovation with distinctive design, high safety standards and smart functionality, naturally making it a popular stroller option for parents. The COŸA is Cybex’s first ultra-compact travel pushchair that can easily fold up to fit airplane cabins. Cybex’s strollers are also lightweight, provide a breathable backrest and adjustable seat which you can lay flat for newborns – all in all, an investment you won’t regret!

Ages: From newborn to approximately 4 years old.
Price: $5,499
Where To Buy: mothercare, mothercourt and Jakewell.

leclerc Baby – Stroller that folds with the touch of one button

A new favourite among Hong Kong Mamas, Leclerc is a Dutch brand that offers innovative strollers. The leclerc Magicfold Plus and Influencer series strollers are ultra lightweight and fold and unfold with the touch of just one button! It lies practically flat and fits in overhead compartments – perfect for jet-setting tots. Plus, it comes with additional accessories such as a coffee cup and rain cover.

Ages: Birth to 5 years.
Price: From $3,890
Where To Buy: Various retailers across Hong Kong, Yoho Hong Kong.

GB Pockit – Baby strollers that are built to last

GB Pockit strollers are built to last and the Pockit+ All-City stroller is a great one for Hong Kong Mamas! It has a wide range of customisable options that adapt to your lifestyle, a recline function that provides ultimate comfort and an ultra-compact folding mechanism perfect for travelling.

Ages: 6 months to 4 years.
Price: From $2,890
Where To Buy: Booknshop, Yoho Hong Kong

Stokke BABYZEN YOYO2 – Popular and versatile stroller ideal for urban parents

The BABYZEN YOYO strollers are always a popular pick with parents in Hong Kong and now they are part of the Stokke family. The YOYO² has a newborn pack and fits just about anywhere – it can even be folded and slung over your shoulder! This version lets you clip your car seat onto the stroller frame without having to remove the fabrics.

Ages: From birth to 4 years.
Price: From $4,470
Where To Buy: Various shops in Hong Kong, including Mothercare, Baby Central and Petit Bazaar

Bugaboo – Stroller that comes with a bassinet and mattress

Bugaboo has several options that might be a good fit if you’re looking for a higher-end option. The Bugaboo Fox 5 bassinet and seat stroller has large, puncture-proof wheels, 5 point safety harness and is designed to fold and manoeuvre with just one hand! It also comes with a bassinet and a mattress.

Ages: From birth to 4 years.
Price: From $13,499
Where To Buy: mothercare Hong Kong

Combi – Strollers with EggShock technology for extra protection

Combi strollers have a unique design to provide the ultimate protection for your baby. The Combi CROSSGO has EggShock technology to protect the newborn’s head and body, air suspension to absorb shock and 19cm mega wheels for stability.

Ages: 1 month to 4 years.
Price: From $2.399
Where To Buy: Various retailers across Hong Kong, HKTV Mall

Chicco – Offering a wide range of baby strollers

These experts know a thing or two about all things baby. Their impressive range of strollers is worth considering when you are on the lookout for a new set of wheels. The compact Goody is a great option for urban travel.

Ages: Birth to 4 years
Price: From $3,898
Where To Buy: Chicco

Doona Car Seat Stroller – World’s first infant car seat and stroller

Doona is the world’s first infant car seat and stroller in one. Who doesn’t love simplicity and efficiency? We know we do! It transforms from a car seat to a stroller in three seconds flat!

Ages: Birth to 15 months.
Price: From $4,280
Where To Buy: Doona Hong Kong

More Baby Strollers In Hong Kong:

Phil & Ted’s GO – Umbrella stroller that is lightweight and can be turned into a double stroller. www.philandteds.com/go-buggy
Maclaren Triumph – Lightweight and compact baby stroller. Available at ChopChop Baby.
Britax Romer Stroller – Compact and one-hand-fold stroller. www.britax-roemer.com.hk
Quinny – A variety of strollers to suit your lifestyle. www.quinny.com/strollers
Aprica Luxuna Comfort – Provides durable body protection, UV light protection and multi-directional body shock absorption. www.aprica.com.hk
Inglesina Twin Sketch – Double stroller with easy manoeuvrability and comfort. Available at Eugene Baby.

Editor’s Note: The Best Baby Strollers In Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them was most recently updated in May 2024 by Anita Balagopalan.

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How To Get A Passport For Your New Baby In Hong Kong

Sassy Mama — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 22:00:10 +0000

Obtaining a baby passport in Hong Kong for your newborn can feel overwhelming. We’ve put together tips to get your soon-to-be jet-setter travel-ready!

While getting your newborn a passport may seem daunting, in reality, it’s quite easy for passports for most countries in the world. What is essential is getting all documents and paperwork in order (births in Hong Kong have to be registered within 42 days of delivery). Sit back and relax as we help you navigate through the process of applying for your newborn baby’s first passport in Hong Kong.

Sassy Mama Tip 1: The most tiresome process can often be getting the baby’s passport photo as photography shops can be quite inflexible when it comes to changing angles to accommodate a baby unable to hold his or her head up. So parents can bring a white bed sheet to cover their hands while supporting their baby for the photograph.

Sassy Mama Tip 2: Another tip is to get forms beforehand and fill in everything while leaving details of the baby’s name, gender, date of birth, etc. blank. That way, you save time when you are tired and stressed after the birth of the baby.

Here’s how to get a passport for your baby for the following countries:
Hong Kong
Australia
Canada
France
India
UK
USA

Hong Kong Passport

Is my child eligible for a Hong Kong passport?

If your child is a Chinese citizen, a permanent resident of the HKSAR, and a holder of a valid Hong Kong permanent identity card (see these FAQs to learn more) then they will be eligible for a Hong Kong passport.

What is the application process?

As with everything in Hong Kong, the government here has made applying for and getting a baby’s passport super easy. All you need is to fill out a simple 2-page ID 842 form. You can obtain the application forms by calling 2824 6111, sending an email to enquiry@immd.gov.hk or visiting any Immigration Office in Hong Kong. If your child does not have a permanent identity card, as is the case for a newborn, an additional ROP 3 form is needed.

To apply in person (with original documents), you can make an appointment online. You can also apply by post or drop-in (with photocopied documents), but this may extend the process by 2 to 3 working days. Within 14 working days, you can go back and collect your baby’s passport or even allow a representative to pick it up through a signed authorisation (ID 678).

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

If your child already has a permanent identity card:

The completed ID 842 form
The child’s Hong Kong permanent identity card
One recent colour photograph on a white background (40mm X 50mm), see photograph requirements here.
Consenting parent or legal guardian’s Hong Kong identity card or valid travel document
The child’s birth certificate with the consenting parent’s name, or a court order for proof of the consenting legal guardian’s custodial rights
Application fee ($185 for 32 pages or $230 for 48 pages) to be paid via EPS, cash, or credit. If you are posting the documents, you should enclose a cheque
One other document with proof of identity or a Form for Countersignature (ID 641) with a copy of the counter-signer’s ID card or valid travel document.

If your child does not yet have a Hong Kong permanent identity card:

The completed ID 842 form
Completed application form for a Hong Kong permanent identity card (ROP 3)
Document supporting the child’s right of abode (a Hong Kong birth certificate showing permanent residence status is sufficient)
The child’s birth certificate with the consenting parent’s name, or a court order for proof of the consenting legal guardian’s custodial rights
Two identical recent colour photographs on a white background (40mm X 50mm)
Consenting parent’s Hong Kong identity card or valid travel document
Application fee (same as above). ($185 for 32 pages or $230 for 48 pages) to be paid via EPS, cash, or credit. If you are posting the documents, you should enclose a cheque
Plus one other document with proof of identity or a Form for Countersignature (ID 1641) with a copy of the counter-signers identifying document

If you need a quick guide to filling out the forms, look here.

Australian Passport

Is my child eligible for an Australian passport?

If either you or your partner is an Australian citizen, your child is eligible for an Australian passport.

What is the application process?

You’ll first need to apply for Australian Citizenship by descent (this takes around one month), and you’ll need your child’s original Hong Kong birth certificate in order to apply. Once you’ve got those, you need to make a visit to the Australian Consulate-General over in Wan Chai to hand in your forms in person (thankfully, your baby can stay home!). Luckily, there are convenient times for lodging applications, from Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm but you must be sure to book in advance. In about 15 business days, you can go back and pick up your bub’s passport.

Sassy Mama Tip: When the system works smoothly, the entire process of obtaining an Australian passport takes about six to eight weeks so don’t plan any trip before your baby is two months old just to be on the safe side. There were lengthy delays during the pandemic so check with the consulate when you submit your forms on the current wait times.

A passport – the application form for minors can be found at Passports Online (and must be filled online as you cannot download a blank form) or you can pick up blank forms in person from the consulate.

To complete the passport application form, both parents with parental responsibility for the child must give consent on the form, and the consent signing must be witnessed. This can be done at the Consulate-General for an additional fee. The consulate will call both parents to check consent.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

The completed Australian passport Overseas Application form
Application fee (the equivalent of AUD 164 in HKD, approximately $860), not including any additional Consular Fees, if needed. Only HKD is accepted, and this can be paid by credit card or EPS. This fee is adjusted regularly, so be sure to check out the fee table before you go.
The child’s proof of Australian citizenship
Your proof of identity with your photo and signature. Your own Australian passport is best.
Lodging parent’s proof of address
Original birth certificate (with the names of both parents)
Two colour photographs (35 to 40mm X 45 to 50mm, check other guidelines here), with one signed as a true photograph by a guarantor (someone who possess an Australian passport or is employed in specific fields, refer to Step 6 here.)

For further details, refer to this page on the Australian Consulate-General of Hong Kong’s website. You could also call them on 2827 8881 or email them at hkng.passports@dfat.gov.au for specific queries.

Canadian Passport

Is my child eligible for a Canadian passport?

Your child is likely a Canadian citizen if at least one parent was born in Canada, or became a naturalised Canadian citizen before the child was born. To find out for sure, check the process of applying for a citizenship certificate for your child. There have been some recent amendments to the Citizenship Act and further clarification can be found here.

What is the application process?

Getting your baby’s Canadian passport is fairly easy in Hong Kong. Do remember that while the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong has moved to Exchange Square in Central, the Passport and Citizenship Services office has moved to Quarry Bay. Make sure you’re headed to the right spot!

You’ll need to complete a passport application form, and also an application for Citizenship Certificate for your child.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

You’ll need to complete your passport application form and pay your fee online before booking an appointment to present your documents in person. If appointments are not available for the date required, applications can be mailed in or dropped off at the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong in Quarry Bay.

For in-person appointments, both parents must be present for the application process along with your child.

A fully completed application form
Two identical passport photos (50mm X 70mm); one must be signed by a Guarantor (the “Other” applying parent can be your Guarantor), plus the photographer must write their name, their complete address and the date the photos were taken. See the full photo requirements here.
Original birth certificate
Proof of Canadian citizenship or the receipt for the child’s citizenship application, original birth certificate or citizenship certificate.
Original or certified photocopies of both parents’ valid government issue ID with signature
Original or certified photocopies of the child’s valid passport of their other nationality (if applicable)
Processing fee (CAN$100, approximately $550) to be paid by Visa or MasterCard (Canadian dollars), EPS, or cash order (HKD only)

Read through the Canadian Government website for the most updated requirements and suggestions for getting your child’s passport.

French Passport

Is my child eligible for a French passport?

So long as at least one parent is a French national.

What is the application process?

Applying for a French passport in Hong Kong can sometimes be tricky. It requires original documents and a complete set of photocopies and the consulate is often very crowded. So go through these details carefully to make sure you have everything you need before making an appointment online.

Along with the passport, you must apply for a request for transcription of the birth certificate (to be completed by the French parent). While requesting transcription, it is necessary to indicate any accents to be worn on the child’s first name.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Your baby. All passport applications require the physical presence of the applicant, though you needn’t bring your child (under 12 years old) while picking up the passport.
1 passport photo taken less than 6 months ago, refer to photo requirements here.
A transcribed copy of your baby’s Hong Kong birth certificate.
Proof of French nationality of at least one parent on the date of birth of the baby.
Passports of both parents with photocopies
A French marriage certificate. If you have a foreign marriage certificate, it is advisable to request a transcription from the French consulate.
The parents’ family booklet with a photocopy of the marriage page (if you are married); otherwise a full copy of each parent’s birth certificate.
A request for transcription of the birth certificate. You can download these forms here.

Indian Passport

Is my child eligible for an Indian passport?

If either you or your spouse is an Indian citizen, then your child is eligible. Note that Indians are not allowed dual citizenship, so this will be the only passport you will apply for.

What is the application process?

If you are applying for an Indian passport for your newborn baby, you’ll have to first apply for the birth registration certificate online and declare that the child does not hold a passport from any other country. Remember that passport and visa services have been outsourced to an external application centre, BLS. The application usually takes a month.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

An application form that has been filled in online and then printed out
You must bring your baby
An affidavit signed by both parents and attested by the Office of Oath Commissioner of Hong Kong/Macau.
Both parents must be present or a single parent with passport of both. You must also produce an affidavit if you are a single parent or if the other parent is not available for certain reasons (mentioned under para II). If a parent is unable to obtain the consent from the other parent for obtaining the passport for the child, another affidavit must be submitted along with supporting documents.
Original and self-attested photocopies of the first two and last pages of the parent(s)‘ passport(s).
Original and self-attested photocopies of the HKIDs/valid visas of the parent(s).
Three recent passport-size photographs (2 inch X 2 inch) with full face and ears visible and a white background
Original and self-attested photocopy of the baby’s birth certificate
Original and self-attested photocopy of the marriage certificate of parents.
In case one of the parents is a foreign national, a certificate from the Embassy/Consulate of the foreign country stating that the child has not been registered as its citizen and not been issued a passport OR a signed affidavit by the parents, attested by the Office of Oath Commissioner of Hong Kong.
An undertaking submitted by both parents declaring that they have not applied for foreign nationality for the baby.
Fees of $632 (including passport and birth registration fees)

Refer to the BLS International page for more details about applying for an Indian passport for newborn babies.

British Passport

Is my child eligible for a British passport?

You will need to navigate through some tough language for this one. If either you or your partner is British “not by descent,” meaning that if you (or your partner) were able to obtain British citizenship either on your own or were born in Britain, then your child will be able to become a British citizen “by descent.” However, if you are a naturalised British citizen or a British citizen by descent yourself, this doesn’t apply to you. If this is unclear, go through this website, which pretty much puts everything in plain language.

What is the application process?

The good news is that the entire British passport process is completed online without the need for any appointments in person (except for interviews in special cases). The bad news is that it could take eight weeks plus, starting from the time that it is received by Her Majesty’s Passport Office in the UK. So be sure to plan your travel way ahead!

Editor’s Note: The Gov.UK online application service is unavailable at the time of publishing. Find out how to apply using other methods and supporting documents needed here.

What do I need to apply?

Since everything is conveniently done over the world wide web, you’ll only need a credit card. Some additional details to have on hand:

Passport numbers of both parents
Two digital identical new photos of your child (35mm x 45mm), see the requirements here.

Sassy Mama Tip: Photos can now be taken digitally and there is no longer the necessity for the child’s eyes to be open (if they are under 1 year old). You can even take one at home with your baby lying down on a white sheet.

A complete colour copy of any other current passports issued by other countries, plus additional supporting documents that you may need to provide.
A MasterCard/Visa/Visa Electron/Visa Debit card to pay a total of GBP 72.86 online (approximately $696), which includes the passport and courier fees
You will need to have your baby’s identity confirmed by someone who has known you at least two years, holds a UK passport and works for or is retired from certain professions.

Sassy Mama Tip: Though the website says the person confirming your baby’s identity needs to live in the UK, you can ignore this as, in this case, he or she needs to live in Hong Kong.

You need to enter all this into the online passport application service and wait patiently for the next eight weeks or so. The good news is that you will receive an email notification when they receive your documents, approve the passport and send it out to you. This reassures you that they haven’t forgotten about you!

For additional information, be sure to check out the overseas British passport application site.

American Passport

Is my child eligible for an American passport?

If either you or your partner are American citizens, then your child is able to receive a US passport too.

What is the application process?

When obtaining an American Passport you can also apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (similar to a birth certificate) and a Social Security card at the same time. The U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong is where you’ll have to go for your appointment, which can be made online for business hours from Monday through Friday. Processing usually takes 20 days. Social Security cards arrive separately in 3 to 6 months. But first, here are some important items to bring and details to sort through:

Before you begin completing the Passport Form (DS-11 form) either online or by hand, your baby will also need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Ignore the part in the form where they tell you to mail it in as this will cause delays, and instead, bring them with you to the Consulate.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Your baby! There are no exceptions to this policy.
Both you and your spouse must be present, plus your original passports. Copies or ID cards are not acceptable.
Or, your passport and a copy of the other parent’s passport, along with a notarised affidavit form of the other parent’s consent (Form DS-3053)
Your child’s Hong Kong birth registration, see details here. (Hospital birth certificates or other documents are not acceptable)
A marriage certificate (must be original). If your baby was born out of wedlock or within six months of your marriage please check here for additional requirements.
Proof of termination of any divorce or death certificates of any prior marriages (in English or translated yourself if not in English already).
An affidavit showing all of your and your spouse’s periods and places of residence/physical presence in the United States and abroad before your baby’s birth. Here are some documents you could present to prove your physical presence in the US. If your child was conceived out of wedlock, additional evidence such as the biological parents’ physical presence at the time of conception may be required.
Completed application forms for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form DS-2029), US passport (DS-11) and Social Security Number (Form SS-5-FS).
A US passport-sized photo of your baby (2 inches X 2 inches or 5cm X 5cm) on a white background. Please see here for photo requirements.
USD100 for the Consular Report of Birth, USD115 for the passport. Total USD215 (approximately $1,667). Consulate accepts cash (HKD only), credit cards (USD only), cheque, bank draft or money order. If paying by cash please note that they don’t accept $1,000 bills or greater.
You will need to show the original receipt to the guards to enter the Consulate to pick up your child’s new passport.

Sassy Mama Tip: The Consulate has both nursing and changing facilities which is helpful, but please do not bring any food, drinks or laptops. Also, note that phones will be left with security during your appointment.

Get these things in order and you’ll be ready to jet off with your bub and his/her new passport! Bon voyage, mama!

Read More: How To Travel With A Newborn Baby

Editor’s Note: How To Get A Passport For Your New Baby In Hong Kong was most recently updated in March 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

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Birth Stories: The Veggie Wifey – No Two Births Are The Same

Divya Butani — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 22:00:46 +0000

It really is true, no two births are the same. Divya Butani of The Veggie Wifey shares her unique experience of delivering her baby in Hong Kong the second time around.

On 29 November, 2021, my baby girl decided to spontaneously enter the world by challenging every single cell of strength in my body. Never would I have ever imagined me being capable of delivering our baby standing up, with people we have never met before, with no pain relief.

Birth Stories In Hong Kong: A Fast Unexpected Labour

It was a Monday morning. I went to my clinic for a regular checkup. I was 40 weeks pregnant and with the lack of sleep, and a very active toddler at home, I suggested getting a membrane sweep to get things moving. My doctor said it would take a good day or so for the labour to start and to monitor it.

So off I went home, made my favourite recipe and midway through devouring my lunch, the contractions started. The contractions got very intense and after just 15 minutes I was crying in distress. I rang the hospital to inform my doctor but couldn’t communicate clearly. I then called my husband to pick me up. I thought I had more time. Little did I know I was in full labour.

My husband rushed from work. I couldn’t sit in the car, so I sat on all fours in the passenger seat, with my face against the headrest and my rear towards the windshield. If anyone saw us that day, they would have thought we were out of our minds!

“Speeding up the rocky meandering path up to Matilda Hospital, facing backwards in a moving vehicle while dilating was not part of my birth plan.”

I still wonder how my amazing husband focused on the road. With me screaming at the top of my lungs and asking him to stop every 2 minutes, he didn’t even get a chance to park, so he left the car outside the outpatient entrance. I yelled through the entrance in agony. I don’t remember how many people were in the lobby, but they were truly in for a surprise.

One of the outpatient nurses handed me a wheelchair, and I shouted “No!”

Outpatient Entrance: My Maternal Instinct Immediately Took Over

Suddenly, I had a final powerful contraction, and an intense gush of water burst through my pants. My water broke. I knew my baby wasn’t waiting for anyone. That’s when my maternal instinct immediately took over, and in front of everyone in the lobby that day, I ripped off my pants to hold my baby’s head in my hands. All that was running through my head was “please don’t suffocate!”. I had no idea what I was doing, or how I would get my baby out safely. My husband was right beside me the whole time, trying his best to get anyone he could to help.

A Fast But Empowering Delivery

The midwives from the maternity ward rushed in along with the resident OBGYN and paediatrician. They surrounded me for support, but my body couldn’t wait any longer, I felt another urge to push again and my baby was almost out of me, in my arms. I was bending over, holding her with my umbilical cord.

“I couldn’t hear any sound from her. I started to panic, and so did everyone else.”

With all the strength from everyone around me, I was carried onto a gurney and as soon as I touched down, my baby’s full body came out with her cord tugging at my placenta. She was all purple. I was praying for her loud cry. The cord was finally cut and she was taken away from me. I was roaring for an answer, to see if she was ok. A minute later, I finally heard her cry for air and sighed in relief. My husband repeatedly yelled back to me across the long corridor “She is okay, she is okay”. It was very emotional.

I was rolled away to deliver my placenta and get a few stitches. Despite what had happened, I felt so much stronger than my previous pregnancy. Neither my designated OBGYN nor paediatrician made it in time. I was so grateful for all the midwives who stepped in, and the resident doctors who were there to help me and my baby that day.

For most of my second pregnancy, I tried to manifest a better birthing experience than my first. I have experienced two miscarriages and was pregnant during the protests and the peak of COVID. My first pregnancy was a medicated vaginal delivery. When the medication was first injected, it numbed the left side of my body and I was in a very uncomfortable birthing position. Then, when it came to active labour, the epidural wore off. Many hours later, after lots of pushing, my son’s heartbeat dropped. I had a fever from dehydration and exhaustion.

“After 24 hours of labour, my baby was torn out of me. I felt everything.”

My first postpartum experience was difficult. There was a lot of physical and mental healing, alongside being so overwhelmed as a first-time mum. It took me a long time to recover and feel somewhat “me” again. I’ve previously written about postpartum depression, and how much goes unnoticed. This time, I promised myself I would do everything in my power to give birth in a much better mindset.

Mindfulness, Health And Wellness During A Second Pregnancy And Delivery

I was a lot more positive and active in my second pregnancy. I went to see Reiki specialist, to help me release any negative and draining emotional energy. I worked out with prenatal trainer and pregnancy guru Ziggy Makant. She made me feel so strong, both mentally and physically. I also went to a traditional Chinese medical clinic where they helped with acupuncture and moxibustion to get my baby in the correct position. I kept on manifesting and visualising an easier birth experience with energy crystals from Angel Illuminate.

“For all the soon-to-be mothers out there, all I can say is throw out the birth plan and focus on learning how to be extremely brave, positive and strong in the face of adversity.”

Birth is out of our control, and whatever situation we are given, we have to learn how to make the most out of it. Delivering a healthy baby, and making sure you are safe is all that truly matters.

Follow The Veggie Wifey on Instagram or visit her website www.theveggiewifey.com

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New Dad Survival Guide: Tips From A Proud New Father

Owen Franks — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 22:00:48 +0000

Don’t panic. Having a baby is the best thing you’ll ever do!

I’m an older dad. It’s not that I didn’t want kids. It’s just that somehow life kept getting in the way. Being an older father, I had heard my friends with kids say things to me like the statement I just made above, many times before. It’s not that I didn’t believe them. I just didn’t pay much attention to them. Maybe I sometimes thought it was an excuse for something that looked like hard work or was some kind of inside joke.

But 10 months into this adventure, the joke’s on me! All the things about my life that I thought were great, have changed. No spontaneous overseas holidays, no big nights out with friends and never ever sleeping in, even after a small night out with friends. And that’s ok…because now I have Freddie.

Instead of trying to feed myself or entertain myself, I now have a little man who relies on me to do all the things I used to do for myself. Now, I feed him, I entertain him and I make him laugh. And that’s hard work and is exhausting. But when he finally goes to sleep at night, it’s the most satisfying thing I’ve ever done.

So here goes… some top tips from a new dad who feels sometimes like he’s just about surviving.

1. The mother of your child is a GOD(DESS)

No matter how many nappies you change, feeds you do, or bath times you give, someone has had a 9-month head start on you. Plus they go through the actual process of childbirth. Respect your goddess. Us dads will never comprehend it, but once the baby is in your arms, you’ll know who’s done the hard work. Carly, my wife, never ceases to amaze me. Watch in awe at what the mother does and how you might be able to help. But more importantly, respect what motherhood is and you’ll fall deeper in love with her, a thousand times over.

2. You’ve done it. Now, own it!

This little thing that your partner just spent nine months growing inside her body, well, it is just about to be shared with you. Man up, new dad! You’re on. This is no time to be flaking out. You’ve just got to keep showing up. And you will. Let your instinct drive you. Look after your child on your own. Five minutes at first, working up to an hour and then maybe half a day. This is a special time for you, your baby and your partner. Look into your baby’s eyes, hold them tight, change their nappy but just as importantly, give your wife a few moments to herself.

3. Keep going until they smile

That first smile will blow your mind. Literally. You will forget about everything else. The lack of sleep, the vomit, the poop – that smile is what makes it all worth it. It is what makes you complete. It will make you go to bed looking forward to getting up again sooner than the old you would. And maybe that’s what this is all about. Recognising, moving through and appreciating the stages in life.

4. Your baby is tough

Hong Kong hasn’t been easy for the past nine months but our little bundle of energy thinks it is the best. The protests and the coronavirus outbreak may have been scary for me as a new dad, but not for Freddie. For him, every new day is a big adventure. Every discovery is as fun as the last. I think no matter what your circumstances, the bond you develop will transcend it all.

5. You can prepare

Read up and take some courses. We did Hypnobirthing and First Aid. Freddie was born by emergency C-section and we haven’t had to use the first aid knowledge (thankfully!). So both courses haven’t been used in a practical way. But that doesn’t mean any of this was a waste of time. Knowledge is power. There are so many resources out there. I found reading a book or two extremely useful. I am a science graduate and so, I like my science. “Brain rules for baby” by John Medina was a fascinating read. He’s is a developmental molecular biologist. It is amazing how my baby reaches milestones like so many other babies in ways that science has discovered, and yet, is also so unique. Learning about how your baby’s brain will develop, will develop yours.

6. If you choose to get help, respect the helper

My wife’s career is important to her, as mine is to me. After putting hers on hold for me, when I worked in countries around the world, Hong Kong has presented her with the opportunity to continue working, even after having a baby. That means we need help. Maybe something my own mother or a family member could have helped with if we were living somewhere else. Here we have a “helper”, but in reality, she is the boss. She is the best! She looks after our boy with love and respect. We both couldn’t do what we do without her tireless professionalism and dedication. She has her own life outside our family and we hope we show her enough respect to understand her situation.

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