Hong Kong work visa application requirements

Hong Kong Work Visa Application Requirements

A hong kong work visa, formally an employment visa, is a permit issued by the Immigration Department allowing a non-resident to work in Hong Kong. The visa is tied to a specific job and a named employer, who acts as the sponsor. Without a valid work visa, a foreign national cannot lawfully work in Hong Kong.

Employment Visa Hong Kong

The employment visa is the standard route for a professional or skilled person to work in Hong Kong. The Immigration Department assesses each application on its merits, considering the applicant's skills, experience and the economic contribution they will make. The sponsoring employer must demonstrate that the role cannot readily be filled by a local person.

Employment Visa Application Hong Kong

The sponsoring employer submits the application to the Immigration Department on behalf of the foreign employee. The employer provides a contract of employment, evidence of the company's business operations, and justification for hiring from outside Hong Kong. The applicant submits personal documents including a passport, photographs and proof of qualifications. A security check is conducted as part of the process.

Immigration Department Work Visa

The Immigration Department processes the application and may issue an approval-in-principle, which allows the applicant to complete the remaining steps. Once approved, the applicant receives a visa label to affix in their passport. The visa label sets out the stay limit and any conditions attached to the employment.

Foreign Employee Visa Hong Kong

The visa permits the holder to work only for the sponsoring employer in the specified role. A change of employer requires a fresh application. The visa holder may bring dependants (spouse and unmarried children under 18) to Hong Kong, who are granted a dependant visa. The dependant visa does not carry an automatic right to work, though dependants may apply for permission to take up employment.