Work Visas in Hong Kong for Expats: What You Need to Know
Hong Kong remains one of Asia’s most dynamic business hubs, attracting foreign professionals with its low taxation, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and gateway position to China and Southeast Asia. But before you can work legally, you’ll need to secure the right visa. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Hong Kong’s work visa system in 2025—from application processes to eligibility criteria, processing times, and key updates expats should be aware of.
1. Do You Need a Work Visa to Work in Hong Kong?
Yes. Unless you hold the right of abode or right to land in Hong Kong, you must obtain an employment visa before you can legally take up a job. This applies to all foreign nationals, regardless of company sponsorship or length of employment.
2. Overview of Work Visa Types in Hong Kong (2025)
Here are the most relevant employment-related visas for expats:
General Employment Policy (GEP) Visa
Who it’s for: Foreign professionals with a confirmed job offer in Hong Kong that requires special skills, knowledge, or experience.
Key requirements:
A solid job offer from a Hong Kong-registered company.
The job must not be readily filled by local talent.
The offered salary and benefits must be in line with local market rates.
The applicant should possess relevant qualifications or experience.
Who it’s for: High-earning professionals or graduates from top global universities.
Categories:
Annual income of HKD 2.5 million or more.
Graduates from one of the world’s top 100 universities (with at least three years of work experience).
Benefit: No job offer required before arrival.
Processing time: Around 4 weeks.
Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)
Who it’s for: Mainland Chinese professionals with job offers in Hong Kong.
Same criteria as GEP, but specifically for Mainland Chinese nationals.
Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)
Who it’s for: Professionals in fields like AI, FinTech, data science, biotech.
Requirement: Sponsored by a company endorsed under the TechTAS quota.
Streamlined approval process once quota is secured.
Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG)
Who it’s for: Non-local students who graduate from Hong Kong’s accredited institutions.
Benefit: Can apply for a 12-month visa to stay and work without securing a job first.
3. How to Apply for a Work Visa in Hong Kong
The application process is generally handled by the employer, but here’s what’s typically involved:
Step 1: Confirm Employment
Your employer must provide you with a formal job offer and a supporting letter describing your role, salary, and why you're uniquely qualified.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
The following documents are usually required:
Completed ID 990A (applicant form) and ID 990B (employer form).
Passport copy.
Proof of academic qualifications and professional experience.
Employment contract and job description.
Business registration documents of the sponsoring company.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
Processing time: Typically 4–8 weeks under the GEP scheme.
You must be outside Hong Kong when the application is approved (though exceptions may apply).
Once approved, you’ll receive a “Visa/Entry Permit Label” which must be affixed to your passport before arrival.
4. Can You Switch Jobs on a Work Visa?
Yes—but your new employer must submit a change of employment application to the Immigration Department. You cannot begin the new job until the change is approved. Unauthorized employment may result in visa cancellation.
5. Can Spouses and Children Join You?
Yes. Dependants (spouse and unmarried children under 18) may accompany GEP, TTPS, and IANG visa holders.
Dependent visa holders are generally allowed to study and may also work without needing a separate employment visa (except for dependents of IANG visa holders).
Processing time: 4–6 weeks.
6. What About Permanent Residency?
Foreigners who have resided in Hong Kong continuously for seven years on a valid visa can apply for permanent residency (Right of Abode), which allows them to live and work in Hong Kong without further visa requirements.
7. Recent Updates & Important Notes (As of 2025)
Top Talent Pass Scheme remains open and competitive, drawing applications from tech and finance professionals worldwide.
IANG applicants are increasingly sought after, especially those with tech or AI backgrounds.
Employers must justify why a local candidate can't fill the position—this is strictly enforced in post-pandemic recovery.
Processing delays may occur during peak periods—plan ahead and follow up.
Final Thoughts
Securing a work visa in Hong Kong is a manageable process—but it demands precision, employer cooperation, and a clear understanding of which visa best fits your profile. Whether you're a top-tier executive, a recent graduate, or a skilled professional in tech or finance, Hong Kong’s talent-driven immigration framework continues to welcome foreign expertise—with the right paperwork in hand.
