Common FAQs about Hong Kong Working Visa For Employees and Employers

This guide provides essential information to help you navigate the visa application process and start your business in Hong Kong.

Further, this blog will examine Hong Kong's work visa system, which aims to attract skilled professionals from various fields.

We'll focus on the General Employment Policy (GEP) visa, the most popular option, which looks at your qualifications, experience, and job suitability. Additionally, we'll explain the GEP application process, known for its clear and straightforward requirements.

Do You Need a Work Visa?

With few exceptions, all foreign nationals who want to work in Hong Kong need a work visa (a.k.a. Hong Kong work permit) issued by the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

This requirement covers most professions (like doctors, teachers, and engineers), industries (such as finance, tech, and hospitality), and lengths of stay (whether for short-term projects or long-term positions).

There are a few limited options for short-term work in specific fields, but these are uncommon.

Citizens of some countries can join the Working Holiday Scheme, which allows for some work authorization while traveling, but this is not a replacement for a work visa.

For most people aiming to work or hire in Hong Kong, obtaining a work visa is necessary. It guarantees you have the proper authorization and comply with local regulations.

While Hong Kong offers visa-free entry to many nationalities, these are for short visits like tourism or business meetings. Visitors cannot engage in any paid or unpaid employment during their visa-free stay.

If a visitor needs to work in Hong Kong, even for a short time, they must apply for a work visa beforehand.

Unless you are a citizen or hiring a citizen eligible for the Working Holiday Scheme or fall under a particular exception, a work visa is mandatory for any foreign national who wants to work in Hong Kong.

Which of the Hong Kong Work Visas is Right for You to Obtain?

Hong Kong has various work visa schemes that suit different people and career paths.

General Employment Policy (GEP)

The GEP is the most common route for foreign professionals looking to work in Hong Kong. It has a straightforward application process and no limits on the number of visas issued yearly.

To qualify as an employee or employer, the employee must show that they possess special skills and that their experience is valuable and relevant to the job offered.

This usually involves providing supporting documents that prove educational background, professional qualifications, and work history.

The employer must also be a registered and legitimate company in Hong Kong.

Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

This scheme is for high-level professionals who can significantly contribute to Hong Kong's economy.

It targets individuals with exceptional achievements, such as a high annual income, a degree from a top university, or a combination of relevant work experience and prestigious qualifications.

The TTPS has a faster application process than the GEP and grants successful applicants a longer initial stay in Hong Kong, giving them more time to settle and establish themselves.

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

The QMAS uses a points-based system to determine eligibility based on factors like educational qualifications, professional experience, language skills, and potential to contribute to Hong Kong's economy.

People with exceptional or special skills in in-demand fields or strong connections to Hong Kong (like having family members who are permanent residents) will score higher points.

This option is suitable for professionals with a proven success record, but competition is high due to the quota system.

Requirements for the QMAS

Unlike other work visas, QMAS doesn't require a pre-existing job offer, making it a good option for those seeking opportunities in the territory.

To be eligible for QMAS, an employee needs to score a minimum of 80 points under a system that assesses various factors. These include:

• Age: Points are awarded based on your age, with younger applicants generally receiving higher scores.
• Academic Qualifications: The educational background plays a role, with higher degrees typically leading to more points.
• Work Experience: Relevant and substantial work experience in the field can significantly boost their score.
• Language Proficiency (English & Cantonese): Fluency in English and Cantonese, Hong Kong's official languages, is a plus. Points are awarded based on their proficiency level in each language.
• Inclusion on the Hong Kong Talent List: Being on the "Talent List" maintained by the Hong Kong Immigration Department offers additional points.
  This list identifies professions considered to be in high demand, and those with qualifications and experience aligned with it are particularly attractive candidates.
• Family Background: Having family members who are Hong Kong permanent residents can contribute some points to your total score.

Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)

ASMTP is for talented individuals from mainland China with skills sought after by Hong Kong employers.

It offers a pathway to live and work in Hong Kong, with an application process similar to the GEP but with specific requirements for mainland Chinese applicants.

Other Options

Besides the GEP, TTPS, and QMAS, there are other work visa options in Hong Kong, such as:

Working Holiday Scheme

Working Holiday Scheme allows young adults (usually 18 to 30 years old) from certain countries to work temporarily in Hong Kong while also traveling.

The scheme typically lasts one year, with possible extensions.

There are limits on the type of work allowed, and participants usually can't work in professions requiring high qualifications or experience or in sensitive sectors like finance or law.

Investment Visa Scheme

The Investment Visa Scheme is for entrepreneurs who want to start or join a business in Hong Kong.

It requires a significant investment in a local business. Successful applicants can live and work in Hong Kong, extend their stay, and potentially obtain permanent residency.

Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)

TechTAS is an initiative by the Hong Kong Immigration Department designed to attract highly skilled professionals in the innovation and technology (IT) sector.

It functions as a fast-track visa scheme, streamlining the application process for eligible individuals.

Also, TechTAS welcomes applications from a broad range of IT professionals, prioritizing individuals with expertise in areas crucial to Hong Kong's technological advancement.

In particular, the scheme seeks professionals with expertise in data analysis.

The best work visa scheme for an employee depends on their qualifications, experience, career goals, and the type of job they are offered.

What are the Requirements for Work Visas in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers different work visas, each with specific requirements. Below is a summary of the general requirements.

Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship

The employee needs a confirmed job offer for a genuine job vacancy from a Hong Kong employer who will sponsor their visa application.

The employer typically must show they tried to hire locally before offering the job to a foreign candidate.

Qualifications & Experience

A good educational background, such as a university degree related to the job, is usually preferred. However, in some cases, strong work experience, technical skills, or proven professional abilities can substitute for formal education.

Clean Criminal Record and Security Clearance

The employee must pass a background check and have no criminal record. This ensures the safety and security of Hong Kong.

Financial Resources

The employees should demonstrate that they have enough financial resources to support themselves and any dependents while in Hong Kong. This proves they won’t need public assistance.

Language Proficiency

Language proficiency is not always required, but being proficient in English or Cantonese can be very beneficial.

English is the main business language in Hong Kong, and Cantonese is the official language. Showing language skills can improve and help employees settle into life in Hong Kong.

What is the Application Process for a Hong Kong Work Visa?

Getting a Hong Kong work visa involves both the employee and the employer working together. Here’s a simple guide to the process:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship

The employee will start finding a job in Hong Kong that matches their skills and experience, or the employer can offer the job themselves. 

Once the employee has a confirmed job offer, the employer will start the visa sponsorship process. This shows their commitment and makes the application process easier.

Step 2: Identify the Right Visa Scheme

The Hong Kong Immigration Department offers various work visa schemes (GEP, TTPS, QMAS, etc.).

Carefully review the eligibility criteria, required documents, and processing times for each scheme.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

After choosing the right visa scheme, start collecting the necessary documents, which typically include:

• Completed Application Forms: Download and fill out the latest forms from the Immigration Department website.
• Passport and Valid Travel Document: Submit the employee's original passport with enough blank visa pages for entry stamps.
• Proof of Qualifications and Experience: Include educational certificates, transcripts, and work experience documents.
• Employment Contract: Provide a signed contract outlining the employee’s position, salary, and benefits.
• Proof of Financial Resources: Bank statements or financial documents showing the employee can support themselves during their stay.
• Additional Documents (Depending on the Scheme): Some schemes might require a medical certificate, police clearance report, or proof of language proficiency in English or Cantonese.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

You can submit your application in various ways. Make sure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejection.

• By Mail: Send complete application package securely through registered mail to the address provided by the Immigration Department.
• In Person: Submit application at a designated Immigration Department office in Hong Kong.
• Through a Chinese Embassy/Consulate: If outside Hong Kong, some countries allow applications to be submitted through a Chinese embassy or consulate in the home country.

Check the specific submission process for your chosen visa scheme to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

Note: If relocating with family, submit separate dependent visa applications for each family member.

Step 5: Processing and Approval

The Immigration Department will review your application and request additional information. Processing times can vary, so be prepared for a wait ranging from weeks to several months.

Step 6: Visa Issuance

Upon approval, you’ll receive the Hong Kong work visa.

The employee can now enter Hong Kong and work for your sponsoring employer for a specified period, usually with the option to renew.

Take note that work visas in Hong Kong are time-limited. If employment continues beyond the visa’s expiry date, submit a renewal application at least four weeks before it expires.

Hong Kong Identity Card

If the employee will be in Hong Kong for over 180 days on a working visa, they must apply for a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) within 30 days of arriving.

By following these steps and considering these points, they can improve their chances of successfully obtaining a Hong Kong work visa.

How Long Will It Take to Get a Working Visa in Hong Kong?

The time it takes to get a work permit in Hong Kong varies.

Typically, it takes between four and eight weeks after submitting all the necessary documents.

This timeframe can change based on several factors, including background information, the accuracy of the application, and the response time of the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

How Much Will It Cost?

The cost of a work permit in Hong Kong can differ depending on the situation.

The current application fee for an Employment Visa is HK$230.

However, this fee can change, so it's best to check the latest information on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website.

It's important to note that the HK$230 fee only covers the application itself.

Depending on the specific visa you are applying for, there may be additional costs, such as medical exams or police checks.

Start Your Own Business in Hong Kong!

Navigating the work visa application process in Hong Kong is essential for both employees and employers. With its clear and straightforward requirements, the General Employment Policy (GEP) visa is a popular choice for skilled professionals. 

Understanding the requirements and following the application steps can significantly enhance your chances of securing a work visa, allowing you to take advantage of the numerous opportunities Hong Kong offers for professional growth and business development. Whether you're an aspiring employee or an employer looking to hire, Hong Kong's work visa system is designed to attract and retain top talent from around the world.

Need help? Contact us if you need assistance with your work visa application or renewal.