Hong Kong Work Visa - Eligibility & Application Process

1. Job offer. The job must be relevant to the applicant's work experience or academic qualifications.
2. Documents proving that the applicant has a clean criminal record.
3. Good educational background. The applicant must show proof of the same through degree in the relevant field, achievements, technical qualifications, work experience, etc.
4. A salary that includes income, medical, accommodation and other benefits that are provided to professionals in Hong Kong. The salary must be at par with the salaries paid to locals in Hong Kong.

In addition, the company must demonstrate that the candidate was hired because the locals lacked the necessary skill set. Additionally, the company must demonstrate how the hire will boost the national economy.

Note - The eligibility criteria may be changed at any time at the discretion of the Hong Kong Government.

How to Apply for a Hong Kong Work Visa

The application form must be filled out and submitted to the Hong Kong Immigration Department with the necessary supporting documentation in order to apply for a work visa or permit in Hong Kong.  

The work visa or permit is renewable for an additional year as long as the employee remains employed by the company. Dependent visas must be obtained for the employee's spouse and children if they are coming to Hong Kong with them.  

The applicant's work visa or permit will not be transferred to the new employer if they shift jobs and begin working for another Hong Kong-based company. He or she must reapply for a work permit or visa. The holder of a work visa or permit may apply for permanent resident status after residing in Hong Kong for at least seven years. 

It takes the Immigration Department 4-8 weeks to process a work visa/permit.

Once the visa is approved, the applicant can collect it from the local Hong Kong Consulate office.

Documents Required

Applicants need to have the following documents to avail a Hong Kong work visa/permit:

1. Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
2. Employment visa application form (fully filled).
3. Job offers letter.
4. Recent passport sized photographs (2 to 3).
5. Travel Insurance.
6. Health Insurance.
7. Education certificates (Mark sheet, degree, certificates, etc.).

Note - Documents must be in English or Chinese. For any other language, applicants should carry translation certificates with them.

Documents Required from Employers

1. Application form for Employment of foreign professionals.
2. Copy of employment contract. This contract must have all the details about the employee's salary, position, benefits, work duration, etc.
3. Financial information of the company.
4. Documents of the company's work background. This is not needed if the company is sponsoring the employee.
5. Copy of company registration with the Government of Hong Kong.