Working Legally in Hong Kong
It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit in order to work legally in Hong Kong. The application for the work permit must be made by the expat’s employer
Exemptions to this rule apply only to a limited number of categories, including visiting business persons, overseas students, and dependents of work permit holders
Types of work permits for expats in Hong Kong
The two main types of work permits in Hong Kong are the Employment Visa (E-Visa) and the General Employment Policy (GEP). The E-Visa is for expats with a degree or higher academic qualification, while the GEP is for those without a degree. Both types of work permits require a job offer from a Hong Kong employer and a minimum salary threshold, which is currently HKD$20,000 per month.
Procedure to apply for a work permit in Hong Kong
The following is the general procedure to apply for a work permit in Hong Kong:
The employer must first secure an offer of employment from a Hong Kong employer.
The employer must then submit an application for a work permit, along with all required documents, to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
The Hong Kong Immigration Department will then process the application and may request additional information or documents if necessary.
The application process typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks, although processing times may vary.
Documents needed to apply for a work permit in Hong Kong
The following documents are required to apply for a work permit in Hong Kong:
A completed application form
Proof of the expat’s qualifications and experience
Proof of the expat’s medical fitness
Proof of the expat’s financial means
Proof of the job offer, including the salary and job duties
Proof of the employer’s business status and financial status
Proof of the expat’s travel document (passport)
Costs involved in applying for a work permit in Hong Kong
The costs involved in applying for a work permit in Hong Kong include the following:
Application fee
Medical examination fee
Other miscellaneous fees, such as fees for police clearance certificates or translations
Where to go for reliable information on working legally in Hong Kong
For reliable information on working legally in Hong Kong, expats can visit the following websites:
Hong Kong Immigration Department: https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/work.html
Hong Kong Labour Department: https://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/services/workpermit/index.htm
Invest Hong Kong: https://www.investhk.gov.hk/work-in-hk/working-in-hk/