Foreign workers in Hong Kong must obtain a valid work visa before commencing employment or entering the territory to engage in any professional activities. In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying for work permits in Hong Kong:
The working visa request
Employees looking to work in Hong Kong have to apply for a working visa which must be requested by the future employer (the Sponsor) with the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
The Immigration Department which manages the population flows has a strict attitude on the work permit relief. It requires to pass an approvability test based on 2 general criteria:
On the need to employ a foreigner with regard to a local worker who could have an equivalent qualification.
Typically, the Immigration Department requires evidence that the requisite skills are unavailable in the local labor market. Both the employer and the employee must justify their decision, demonstrating exhaustive efforts to recruit locally. The work visa application should showcase the candidate’s higher education, aligning with the job requirements, and illustrate that the position necessitates skills and experience not readily found among local candidates, thereby justifying the need for foreign employment.
On the company’s history, real existence and activity, and its capacity to benefit the economy of Hong Kong.
In the case of a newly established company or a first sponsoring application from an existing local company, the employer has to bring the proof that the professional project and the activity set-up will be long-lasting and profitable in the local economy. The Immigration Department requests the presentation of a business plan and a complete market study with proof of a successful past commercial activity, proof of financial means supporting the investment, and the demonstration of future jobs creation. It also comes along by the presentation of official documents attested by professionals (banks, lawyers, certified accountant).
The application lasts 4 to 6 weeks. The immigration reserves the right to grant or reject the working visa.
When the visa request is accepted, this one is valid for one year; from the second year, it is possible for the employer to ask for a two-year visa.
Hong Kong ID Card
Typically, the Immigration Department requires evidence that the requisite skills are unavailable in the local labor market. Both the employer and the employee must justify their decision, demonstrating exhaustive efforts to recruit locally. The work visa application should showcase the candidate’s higher education, aligning with the job requirements, and illustrate that the position necessitates skills and experience not readily found among local candidates, thereby justifying the need for foreign employment.
The HKID Card is delivered has temporary title, and becomes permanent after 7 years.
Working visa treatment in Hong Kong
Thanks to its network in Hong Kong, MBIA can assist you in the application for a long-term visa to live and work in Hong Kong.
MBIA’s service includes the following elements:
- Follow-up of the application process from A to Z
- Supply of a detailed document list to be produced and advice
- Writing of letters required by the Immigration Department
- Creation and/or Revision of documents to sponsor the application before its submission
- Interface with the Immigration Department
- Payment of the visa expenses
- Collection of the visa
- Meeting arrangement for application to the HKID Card
