Overview
Hong Kong, a vibrant, densely populated urban centre situated on the south coast of China, is characterised by its stunning skyline filled with modern skyscrapers juxtaposed with natural surroundings, including the iconic Victoria Harbour and lush green hills. Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China and a global financial hub that is home to a rich blend of cultures, where Eastern traditions meet Western influences, evidenced in its architecture, cuisine and festivals. Despite its small geographical size, Hong Kong boasts a robust economy, thriving on free trade and finance.
Reasons to Work in Hong Kong
Hong Kong has been one of the attractive destinations for foreigners to work in. International job seekers often choose to work in Hong Kong for various reasons, primarily drawn to the region's dynamic economic environment, strategic location, and cultural diversity. Below are a few reasons why Hong Kong has remained an attractive destination for expatriates.
- Global Financial Hub: Hong Kong is a renowned global financial centre, offering numerous opportunities in the banking, finance, and investment sectors. Working here provides exposure to international markets and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
- Business Opportunities: The city's strategic location, low taxes, and free-market policies make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and startups. Joining the dynamic business ecosystem allows you to tap into various industries and expand your professional horizons.
- Cultural Diversity: Hong Kong's vibrant cultural diversity fosters an inclusive environment where individuals from different backgrounds collaborate and thrive. Engaging with diverse perspectives enriches your personal and professional growth.
- Career Progression: The city's competitive job market offers a wide range of career advancement opportunities. With numerous multinational corporations and established companies, you can access roles that align with your skills and ambitions.
- Quality of Life: Hong Kong boasts a high standard of living, efficient public transport, and a mix of urban and natural landscapes. The city's blend of bustling city life and serene countryside provides a balanced lifestyle for professionals seeking work-life harmony.
- Tax Benefits: The region has a relatively low and straightforward tax system, which is often seen as favourable compared to the higher tax rates in other developed countries.
If you are an ambitious individual who likes to take their career to a global stage, Hong Kong can be a great choice.
Getting a Job in Hong Kong as a Foreigner:
Getting a job in Hong Kong as a foreigner involves a series of steps, from understanding the job market to securing a work visa. If you apply for jobs that do not offer visas, your time and energy will be wasted. To get a job in Hong Kong as a foreigner, you can follow Opentoworld's simple steps:
Step 1: Find suitable positions on Opentoworld
Vacancies listed on Opentoworld support visa sponsorship for foreigners who do not have unrestricted right to work in Hong Kong.
Step 2: Submit job applications
When submitting applications, you may need to submit a CV (resume) and sometimes a cover letter. You can submit your applications directly by clicking "Apply Now".
Step 3: Complete the application process
If your skills and experience match the employer's requirements, the employer may invite you to complete assessments and interviews. If you apply for an internship, graduate job or a graduate scheme, you may also need to participate in assessment centres, also known as super days.
Step 4: Receive a job offer
In order to secure a job, you may need to apply for many jobs. If you are successful in your application, you will be offered a job in Hong Kong. Without securing a job offer, you may not be able to obtain a work permit.
Step 5: Apply for a visa and relocate
Once you have signed the contract, employers will often guide you through the visa application process. In most cases, your employer will need to sponsor you. Employers may offer sponsorship or provide relevant documents via one of the following schemes:
- General Employment Policy – Professionals
- Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (for Chinese Mainland citizens only)
- Technology Talent Admission Scheme
Once you have received your visa, you can relocate to Hong Kong or continue your stay if you are already in Hong Kong.
There are some visa options where you do not need sponsorship from employers. Those visas allow you to stay in Hong Kong for a certain period and look for jobs. However, those visa schemes have special requirements which are not suitable for the majority of job seekers.
Hong Kong Employment Market in 2023
The Hong Kong employment market is expected to remain strong in 2023, with low unemployment and a variety of job opportunities. The following are some of the key trends that are expected to shape the market:
- The continued growth of the technology sector: Hong Kong is a major technology hub in Asia, and the sector is expected to continue to grow in 2023. This will create demand for skilled workers in areas such as software development, data science, and cybersecurity.
- The expansion of the financial services sector: Hong Kong is a leading financial centre, and the sector is expected to continue to expand in 2023. This will create demand for skilled workers in areas such as investment banking, asset management, and insurance.
- The rise of the creative industries: The creative industries are growing in Hong Kong, and they are expected to create new jobs in areas such as design, advertising, and film.
- The demand for bilingual workers: Hong Kong is a bilingual city, and employers are increasingly looking for workers who can speak both English and Cantonese.
Overall, the Hong Kong employment market is expected to remain strong in 2023. If you are looking for a job in a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, Hong Kong is a great place to start your search.
Top Industries that Attract Global Talent
Hong Kong remains a significant global hub for several industries, attracting a plethora of international talents. Below are some of the top industries where foreigners might find promising opportunities:
- Technology: This sector is constantly growing and evolving, and there is a high demand for skilled IT professionals in Hong Kong. Some of the most in-demand technology jobs include software developers, data scientists, and IT security analysts.
- Financial services: Hong Kong is a leading financial centre, and the sector is expected to continue to expand in 2023. This will create demand for skilled workers in areas such as investment banking, asset management, and insurance.
- Professional services: This sector includes a wide range of jobs, such as accounting, law, and consulting. There is a high demand for skilled professionals in this sector, as businesses in Hong Kong look for help with compliance, risk management, and strategic planning.
- Healthcare: Hong Kong has a strong healthcare system, and there is a high demand for healthcare professionals. Some of the most in-demand healthcare jobs include nurses, doctors, and pharmacists.
- Education: Hong Kong has a highly developed education system, and there is a high demand for educators. Some of the most in-demand education jobs include teachers, professors, and school administrators.
- Logistics and supply chain: Hong Kong is a major trading nation, and there is a high demand for logistics and supply chain professionals. Some of the most in-demand logistics and supply chain jobs include logistics managers, supply chain analysts, and warehouse workers.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs in top industries in Hong Kong:
Requirements for a Hong Kong Work Visa
Most people moving to Hong Kong for a job apply for a work visa under the General Employment Policy (GEP). People moving from mainland China to work in Hong Kong often apply for the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP). If you want to work in the technology sector and have special expertise in technology, your employer may sponsor you under the Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS). These types of visas are usually issued only for a specific period, and you will be able to extend them. To be eligible, candidates must have a confirmed job offer with an employer who is sponsoring them.
General Employment Policy (GEP) - (for non-Mainland residents)
The General Employment Policy (GEP) in Hong Kong is designed to provide a streamlined entry arrangement for skilled professionals seeking employment opportunities within the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). This policy is aimed at individuals who possess specialised skills, knowledge, or experience that are deemed valuable and not readily available within the region.
Main Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a visa/entry permit under the GEP, applicants need to fulfil specific criteria, which include:
- Security and Record: Applicants should have no security objections and no known record of serious crime.
- Educational Background: Typically, applicants should hold a first degree in a relevant field. However, in exceptional cases, technical qualifications, proven professional abilities, and relevant experience supported by documentary evidence can also be considered.
- Confirmed Employment Offer: Applicants should have a confirmed offer of employment that is relevant to their academic qualifications or work experience and not readily available to the local workforce. You can apply for suitable jobs on Opentoworld.
- Remuneration Package: The remuneration package, including income, accommodation, medical benefits, and other fringe benefits, should align with prevailing market levels for professionals in the HKSAR.
Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)
The Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) in Hong Kong is designed to provide a streamlined entry arrangement for skilled professionals who are residing in mainland China and seeking employment opportunities within the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). This policy is aimed at individuals who possess specialised skills, knowledge, or experience that are deemed valuable and not readily available within the region.
Main Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a visa/entry permit under the GEP, applicants need to fulfil specific criteria, which include:
- Security and Record: Applicants should have no security objections and no known record of serious crime.
- Educational Background: Typically, applicants should hold a first degree in a relevant field. However, in exceptional cases, technical qualifications, proven professional abilities, and relevant experience supported by documentary evidence can also be considered.
- Confirmed Employment Offer: Applicants should have a confirmed offer of employment that is relevant to their academic qualifications or work experience and not readily available to the local workforce. You can apply for suitable jobs on Opentoworld.
- Remuneration Package: The remuneration package, including income, accommodation, medical benefits, and other fringe benefits, should align with prevailing market levels for professionals in the HKSAR.
Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)
The Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) is a promising opportunity for individuals seeking to contribute their expertise in cutting-edge technology sectors while working in Hong Kong. This scheme facilitates the fast-track admission of eligible overseas and Mainland technology talent to engage in research and development (R&D) activities. As a job seeker, TechTAS offers an avenue to collaborate with forward-thinking companies engaged in R&D across diverse fields such as advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and more.
Main Requirement for the TechTAS:
To qualify for the TechTAS visa and participate in Hong Kong's vibrant technology landscape, job seekers need to meet several key criteria:
- Employment by Eligible Companies: You must secure full-time employment with companies actively involved in R&D within specified technology areas.
- Focus on R&D: Your role should predominantly involve research and development in fields like advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and others.
- STEM Degree: Possess a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) from a well-recognized university ranked among the top 100 for STEM-related subjects.
- Market-Level Remuneration: Your offered remuneration should meet or exceed the prevailing market rates for comparable positions in Hong Kong.
- Employment Quota: The employing company must hold a valid quota approved by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) at the time of application.
Relevant Links
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Hong Kong
Other Common Visa Options to Work in Hong Kong
How to Write a Hong Kong Standard CV
