HongKong

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Work Visa and Permits

Sections

1. Categories of Work Visas in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers several types of work visas depending on the nature of employment and the applicant's qualifications. Below are the main categories:

A. General Employment Policy (GEP)

  • Who itโ€™s for: Skilled professionals with a confirmed job offer in Hong Kong that cannot be readily filled by the local workforce.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • A valid job offer in Hong Kong.
    • The job must be relevant to the applicantโ€™s qualifications and work experience.
    • The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled locally.
    • The applicant must have a good educational background (usually a degree) or possess relevant technical qualifications and experience.
  • Duration: Typically issued for 1-2 years initially, renewable.

B. Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)

  • Who itโ€™s for: Skilled professionals from mainland China with a confirmed job offer in Hong Kong.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Similar to the GEP, but specifically for mainland Chinese nationals.

C. Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)

  • Who itโ€™s for: Technology professionals working in designated technology sectors (e.g., AI, robotics, fintech).
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • The employer must be a company approved under the TechTAS quota system.
    • The applicant must meet the qualifications and experience requirements for the specific role.
  • Fast-Track Process: Applications under TechTAS are processed faster than GEP.

D. Training Visa

  • Who itโ€™s for: Individuals coming to Hong Kong for training purposes (e.g., internships or skill development programs).
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • The training must be related to the applicantโ€™s current job or future career development.
    • The training period is typically capped at 12 months.

E. Working Holiday Visa

  • Who itโ€™s for: Young people (aged 18-30) from specific countries with bilateral agreements with Hong Kong.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • Applicants must hold a passport from an eligible country (e.g., Australia, Canada, UK, Japan).
    • The visa allows for short-term work and travel in Hong Kong for up to 12 months.

F. Investment as Entrepreneurs

  • Who itโ€™s for: Individuals planning to establish or join a business in Hong Kong.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • A detailed business plan demonstrating the viability of the business.
    • Proof of financial resources to sustain the business.
    • The business must contribute to Hong Kongโ€™s economy (e.g., job creation, innovation).

2. Costs Involved

The application fees for work visas in Hong Kong are relatively low compared to other global cities. As of October 2023:

  • Work Visa Application Fee: HKD 230 (approximately USD 30).
  • Renewal Fee: HKD 230.
  • Dependent Visa Fee (if applicable): HKD 230 per dependent.

3. Application Procedures

The application process for a work visa in Hong Kong involves several steps. Below is a detailed breakdown:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

  • You must have a confirmed job offer from a Hong Kong-based employer.
  • The employer will act as your sponsor and must provide supporting documents.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

The following documents are typically required:

  • From the Applicant:
    • Completed application form (ID 990A).
    • Copy of passport (bio-data page and any relevant visa pages).
    • Recent passport-sized photograph.
    • Proof of academic qualifications (e.g., degree certificates).
    • Proof of work experience (e.g., reference letters, CV).
  • From the Employer:
    • Completed sponsor form (ID 990B).
    • Business registration certificate.
    • Company background (e.g., business activities, financial standing).
    • Employment contract or offer letter.
    • Justification for hiring a foreign worker (e.g., why the position cannot be filled locally).

Step 3: Submit the Application

  • Applications can be submitted:
    • By post: To the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
    • In person: At the Immigration Department in Hong Kong.
    • Through a representative: If you are outside Hong Kong, your employer or a representative can submit the application on your behalf.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

  • The Immigration Department will review the application and may request additional documents or clarification.

4. Timelines

The processing time for work visas in Hong Kong varies depending on the visa type and the completeness of the application:

  • General Employment Policy (GEP): 4-8 weeks.
  • Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP): 4-8 weeks.
  • Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS): 2-4 weeks.
  • Training Visa: 4-6 weeks.
  • Working Holiday Visa: 2-4 weeks.

5. Local Considerations and Regulations

When applying for a work visa in Hong Kong, keep the following in mind:

A. Dependents

  • Work visa holders can sponsor their spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18 for a dependent visa.
  • Dependents are allowed to work or study in Hong Kong without additional permits.

B. Renewals

  • Work visas are typically issued for 1-2 years initially and can be renewed.
  • Renewals require proof of continued employment and compliance with visa conditions.

C. Permanent Residency

  • After living in Hong Kong for 7 consecutive years on a valid visa, you may apply for Permanent Residency (Right of Abode).

D. Taxation

  • Hong Kong has a simple and low tax regime. Salaries tax is capped at 15% of your income.
  • Ensure you register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for tax purposes once you start working.

E. Compliance

  • You must work only for the employer and in the position specified in your visa application.
  • Changing employers requires a new visa application.

F. COVID-19 and Health Considerations

  • As of October 2023, Hong Kong has lifted most COVID-19 restrictions, but itโ€™s advisable to check for any updated health requirements before traveling.

6. Additional Resources

  • Hong Kong Immigration Department Website: www.immd.gov.hk
  • Contact Information:
  • Visa Application Forms: Available for download on the Immigration Departmentโ€™s website.

Summary Checklist

  1. Secure a job offer in Hong Kong.
  2. Gather all required documents (applicant and employer).
  3. Submit the application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
  4. Wait for processing (4-8 weeks).
  5. Upon approval, collect your visa and make travel arrangements.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate the work visa process in Hong Kong. Let me know if you need further assistance!