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Hong Kong Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Looking to sponsor an international hire in Hong Kong? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Capital City

City of Victoria

Currency

Hong Kong Dollar

(

HK$

)

Timezone

HKT

(

GMT +8

)

Payroll

Monthly

Employment Cost

0% - 17%

Milani Notshe

Research Specialist

Last Updated

July 11, 2025

In This Guide

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Hiring Foreign Talent in Hong Kong: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in Hong Kong? Navigating Hong Kong’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in Hong Kong, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers must be registered with the Ministry of Interior to sponsor foreign nationals.

Work permits typically take 4-6 weeks to process.

Common work visas include the Temporary Work Visa and EU Blue Card, with fees starting at €100.

Independent contractors follow a separate process, often without employer sponsorship.

Work permits are not location-specific but may require approval for job changes.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Hong Kong

Any individual who is not a permanent resident of Hong Kong requires a work permit to engage in employment within the region. This includes foreign nationals as well as residents from mainland China, Macau, and Taiwan. Employers must ensure that prospective employees have the appropriate authorization before they begin work to comply with Hong Kong's immigration laws.

Types of Work Visas in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers several work visa options tailored to different professional needs and qualifications.

Visa Type	Description
General Employment Policy (GEP)	For professionals with special skills, knowledge, or experience not readily available in Hong Kong. Requires a confirmed job offer and relevant qualifications.
Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)	Designed for Chinese nationals from mainland China with skills and knowledge beneficial to Hong Kong's economy.
Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG)	For non-local graduates who have obtained a degree or higher qualification in a full-time and locally-accredited program in Hong Kong. No prior job offer required for application.
Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)	Fast-track arrangement for eligible technology companies to admit non-local technology talent to undertake R&D work in Hong Kong.
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)	A quota-based scheme aimed at attracting highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong without requiring a prior job offer.
Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)	For high-earning professionals and graduates from top universities worldwide to explore opportunities in Hong Kong. No job offer required.

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Hong Kong, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Common Hiring Scenarios for Hong Kong

When hiring talent in Hong Kong, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Hong Kong. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
Processing timelines vary (approximately 4-6 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Hong Kong.

Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Hong Kong

Independent professionals in Hong Kong can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) or USD.
Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Hong Kong.

Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Hong Kong

Transferring an existing team member to Hong Kong? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Asia, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Not Sure What to Pay in Hong Kong? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements for a Work Permit in Hong Kong

To obtain a work permit in Hong Kong, applicants and their prospective employers must meet specific criteria.

Confirmed Job Offer: The applicant must have a confirmed offer of employment relevant to their qualifications and experience.
Relevant Qualifications: A good educational background, typically a university degree, or proven professional experience.
Genuine Job Vacancy: Evidence that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate.
Market-Competitive Salary: The offered salary must align with prevailing market rates in Hong Kong.
Good Character: No criminal record or adverse immigration history.

Hong Kong Work Permit Application Process

Step 1: Offer and Acceptance of Employment: The employer extends a formal job offer, and the applicant accepts.
Step 2: Application Submission: Complete and submit the necessary forms (ID 990A and ID 990B) along with supporting documents.
Step 3: Application Review: The Immigration Department reviews the application and may request additional information.
Step 4: Visa Issuance: Upon approval, a visa/entry permit label is issued.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Hong Kong

Employers act as sponsors for work visa applicants, demonstrating the need to hire a foreign professional. This involves submitting the employment contract, company financials, and proof of operations. Sponsors must ensure compliance with visa conditions.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Hong Kong

The fees for work visas vary based on the visa type.

Visa Type	Application Fee
General Employment Policy (GEP)	HKD 230
ASMTP	HKD 230

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Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Hong Kong

Processing typically takes four weeks but may vary depending on application completeness.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Hong Kong

Work permits in Hong Kong are typically issued for an initial period of up to 24 months. Renewals are possible in increments of two to three years, provided the employment relationship continues and eligibility criteria are met. Employers and employees should apply for renewal at least four weeks before the current permit's expiration to avoid disruptions.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Hong Kong

Hong Kong does not offer a dedicated visa for digital nomads. However, remote workers must secure appropriate authorization to work legally within the region. Failure to comply with immigration laws can result in penalties, including fines or deportation.

Employment Visa: Digital nomads who plan to work remotely from Hong Kong should obtain an employment visa sponsored by a local employer.
Investment Visa: Those intending to start a business in Hong Kong can apply for an investment visa (entrepreneur visa) by demonstrating a substantial business plan and contribution to the local economy.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Hong Kong

Hiring foreign talent in Hong Kong involves navigating various challenges. Being prepared and proactive can help employers address these issues effectively.

Visa Restrictions: The application process can be time-consuming, and proving that a local candidate cannot fill the role is often necessary.
Compliance with Labor Laws: Employers must adhere to local laws regarding wages, benefits, and working conditions to avoid legal issues.
Cultural Integration: Differences in language and workplace culture can hinder smooth integration. Employers should facilitate cultural awareness programs.

Tips for Employers:

Streamline Visa Processes: Maintain clear communication with immigration authorities and seek expert advice to expedite visa applications.
Ensure Legal Compliance: Stay informed about labor regulations to avoid penalties.
Promote Cultural Awareness: Foster an inclusive environment by providing cultural training for both local and international employees.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in Hong Kong

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in Hong Kong?

Yes, Playroll can sponsor work visas in Hong Kong. As the legal employer, we manage the full visa process with local authorities — from documentation to approvals — ensuring your hire is compliant and ready to work. Whether you're relocating a team member or hiring in Hong Kong, our experts will guide you step by step.

Want to get started? book a demo and we’ll walk you through the process.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, the terms "work permit" and "work visa" are often used interchangeably. A work visa refers to the authorization granted to a foreign individual to work in Hong Kong, while a work permit may denote specific approvals for certain roles. In practice, Hong Kong primarily issues work visas under various schemes.

How long does it take to process a work permit or visa in Hong Kong?

The processing time for a work permit or visa application is typically around four weeks from submission. Delays can occur if the application is incomplete or additional information is required.

What are the requirements for sponsoring a work permit or visa in Hong Kong?

Employers must provide a confirmed job offer, demonstrate that a local candidate cannot fill the position, and offer a market-competitive salary. The applicant must possess relevant qualifications and experience, and have no criminal record or adverse immigration history.

What types of work permits and visas are available in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers several work visa types, including the General Employment Policy (GEP) Visa, Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP), Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG), Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS), Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), and the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS).