Work Permits for Hong Kong

Many expats move to Hong Kong each year to pursue new career opportunities. If you’re considering relocating to Hong Kong, you’ll find several visa options that allow you to take up employment.

General Employment Policy visas in Hong Kong

If you’re a well-qualified and experienced professional wanting to work in Hong Kong, you’ll likely apply for a General Employment Policy (GEP) visa. GEP visas have no quota restrictions and are not specific to any particular sector, making them accessible across various industries.

These work permits are relatively straightforward to obtain if you can demonstrate a high level of education or possess a specialised skill set that adds value to Hong Kong’s economy and isn’t readily available locally. Employers generally look for candidates with relevant educational qualifications, significant professional experience, and unique skills that aren’t common in the local job market. The offered salary must also be competitive with local standards.

Note that you must have a confirmed offer of employment and an employer sponsor before applying for a GEP visa. The competitiveness of the application process can vary by industry – technology and finance roles, for instance, may find the process less competitive due to shortages of local talent. On the other hand, sectors with a surplus of qualified professionals might face more stringent evaluations.

Useful links

• General Employment Policy (GEP) Visa – Hong Kong Immigration Department

Technology Talent Admission Scheme visas for Hong Kong

If you’re a technology specialist, the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) visa might be your ticket. Eligible companies that urgently need technology talent can fast-track visa applications for international employees engaged in research and development in Hong Kong. This scheme is designed to boost Hong Kong’s position as an innovation hub by targeting key tech industries.

The Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) sets quotas for TechTAS, which eligible companies have 12 months to fulfil. The fast-track arrangement often allows applications to be processed in as little as two weeks. The ITC also takes into account the company’s efforts to recruit locally, ensuring that non-local talent is only brought in where there is a genuine need.

Expats who gain entry to Hong Kong through the TechTAS are also eligible to bring dependants, making this a family-friendly option for technology professionals.

Useful links

• Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) – Innovation and Technology Commission

Top Talent Pass Scheme visas in Hong Kong

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) aims to attract high-achieving professionals to Hong Kong. If you have an exceptional educational background or notable career achievements, this scheme could be the one for you. The TTPS has three main categories:

• Category A: Individuals earning a very high income equivalent.
• Category B: Degree graduates from the world’s top 100 universities with at least three years of work experience in the past five years.
• Category C: Recent degree graduates from the world’s top 100 universities within the past five years, with less than three years of work experience. This category is subject to an annual quota.

Applicants do not need a prior employment offer to apply for the TTPS, which grants a 24- to 36-month stay, depending on the category. Successful applicants enjoy flexibility in switching jobs or sectors and can bring their spouse or partner and unmarried dependent children under 18. Dependants are generally allowed to work in Hong Kong, providing further opportunities for family members.

Useful links

• Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) – Hong Kong Immigration Department

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme visas in Hong Kong

The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is designed to attract talented individuals who can enhance Hong Kong’s competitiveness. Unlike other work visas, QMAS does not require applicants to have a pre-arranged job offer, making it a flexible choice for high-skilled individuals. Applicants are assessed on a points-based system, which considers factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, and language proficiency. There are two assessment methods:

• General Points Test (GPT): Evaluates factors like age, academic qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency. A minimum passing score is required.
• Achievement-based Points Test (APT): For individuals with exceptional talent or skills, such as international award recipients. This test has a high threshold, and it’s all-or-nothing.

QMAS holders can reside in Hong Kong without securing prior employment, allowing them to try out various career opportunities or establish a business. Successful applicants can bring their dependants, adding to the scheme’s appeal for those looking to relocate with their families.

Useful links

• Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) – Hong Kong Immigration Department

Working Holiday Scheme visas

Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) visas allow expats from certain countries aged between 18 and 30 to work in Hong Kong for up to 12 months (six months for Austrian nationals). There are annual quotas for WHS visas for each eligible country, which includes the UK, New Zealand, Australia, France, and more. Quotas vary by country, with Australia having the highest quota of 5,000 visas, followed by Japan with 1,500 and the UK with 1,000 visas. These quotas are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early is wise.

If you’re participating in the WHS, you can take up any temporary employment. Popular roles include positions in hospitality and tourism, retail, education (such as language tutoring), administrative support, and food and beverage services. These jobs provide flexibility and are ideal for short-term employment, aligning with the objectives of the WHS.

Depending on your nationality, you may be required to change employers after three, six, or 12 months. Most participants are also permitted to study in Hong Kong, although the number and duration of courses allowed can vary based on your country of origin.

To be granted a WHS visa, you must show sufficient funds in your bank account to support yourself while in Hong Kong and provide proof of valid medical insurance. Insurance requirements vary by country, but most applicants need comprehensive coverage for medical, hospitalisation, and liability. You’ll also need to hold a return air ticket or demonstrate that you have the financial means to purchase one.

While WHS visas are generally valid for 12 months and are not extendable, you may explore other options if you wish to stay longer. These include securing an Employment Visa through a job offer, applying for a Student Visa by enrolling in a recognised institution, or obtaining a GEP visa if you possess specialised skills that are in demand.

Useful links

• Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) Visa – Hong Kong Immigration Department

Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and you should contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.