Hong Kong is one of the most attractive places to move abroad, at least for employment. However, expats here will have to face tough competition. Find out about the advantages, disadvantages and peculiarities of working in Hong Kong, as well as the available types of work visas in 2024

Hong Kong is one of the largest financial centers not only in Asia, but also in the whole world. Open market economy, ideal infrastructure, high standard of living, high-quality healthcare system, security and other positive factors attract many foreigners to this region, including for the purpose of employment.

How to move to Hong Kong for work? A useful guide for expats on finding employment in the country in this article.

Benefits of working in Hong Kong

The main advantages of working in Hong Kong are a competitive salary, career prospects and a developed transport system, we can also highlight:

- High demand for professionals.

- Earning potential - Hong Kong ranks 14th in the world for average monthly salary after taxes. In terms of wages, the country is ahead of other Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, and even European countries such as Germany and Great Britain.

- Developed public transport system – Hong Kong has the best public transport system in the world. The advantages of Hong Kong's public transport include low fares, limited delays and disruptions, a self-sustaining financial support system, and congestion and speed of travel.

- Business-friendly environment.

- Career growth prospects and opportunities to build an international career.

Cons of working in Hong Kong

  In addition to numerous advantages, moving to Hong Kong for work has certain disadvantages, including:

- The cost of living is too high;

- Hong Kong workers rank third in the region for overwork;

- Strict quarantine measures;

- Language barrier (about 90% of local residents communicate mainly in the Cantonese dialect);

- Stormy rhythm of life;

- High competition in the labor market.

Where do most expats work in Hong Kong?

The most popular jobs in Hong Kong are primarily in the services sector - banking, finance, trade, technology and science.

Business consultants, brand managers, auditors, and marketers are scarce professions in Hong Kong. It is quite difficult to get such jobs, but the salary level here is very high. Jobs in the hospitality and media industries are also available.

Successful employment depends on the level of command of the English language, ideally knowing the Cantonese dialect.

In addition, it is worth noting the field of education. Because Hong Kong, like all of China, has a shortage of English teachers. This job is considered prestigious and well paid.

You will need health insurance to safely move and find employment in a new country. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.

How can a foreigner get a work permit in Hong Kong?

It is important to note that obtaining a work visa and permit in Hong Kong can be quite complex and difficult. Often you need to have exceptional qualifications, education and experience.

In order to obtain a work permit, expats will need to find a sponsoring employer and meet a number of additional conditions:

- provide a signed employment contract;

- confirm the availability of higher education;

- not have a criminal record and not be involved in the commission of crimes, i.e. should not pose a danger to the residents of Hong Kong.

The application must be submitted to the Immigration Department of Hong Kong. As a rule, consideration of the application can last up to 2 months.

After you meet the basic requirements, the Hong Kong immigration department will evaluate the documents, salary and working conditions, and check whether there are any workers in Hong Kong who can fill the position. After all, one of Hong Kong's priorities is to provide jobs to its residents, so they should check whether there really is a lack of jobs in the field that foreigners are applying for.

Types of work visas in Hong Kong

- Work visa for specialists. It is issued mainly to highly qualified specialists who have signed a contract with one of the Hong Kong companies.

- Investment visa to Hong Kong. Issued if you are the founder of any actual business in Hong Kong, or a new company that has development plans in Hong Kong.

- Visa for workers who improve their qualifications. Hong Kong Training visa is granted to those who want to come to Hong Kong to acquire certain skills related to their specialty. Usually, such a visa is issued for a period of only one year.

- Change of sponsor for work visa. If the holder of a work visa needs to change employers, he needs to issue a change of guarantor for the work visa. This is done regardless of whether the valid work visa has expired or not. At the same time, registration of a change of sponsor must take place even before the employer changes.

- Travel and transit visa. Suitable for frequent visits, business trips. The main purpose of this program is to promote cultural and educational exchange between Hong Kong and other countries participating in the program, such as South Korea, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Germany and Ireland. Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.

Work culture and social support in Hong Kong

Most employers in Hong Kong provide good working conditions for their employees, including a full welfare package. The government also does not remain indifferent to this issue - the government monitors the health and safety of employees. Taxes here are very low, and workers have the right to social support.

Expats starting their careers in Hong Kong may feel a bit of a shock, because the working week is much longer than what they are used to - more than 50 hours or even more.

Professionalism is also important in Hong Kong. Many city-state companies have hierarchical structures that can be difficult for expats. The work culture in Hong Kong is also results-oriented, so expats can find themselves in high-pressure environments.

It is also important to know the ins and outs of doing business in Hong Kong. For example, it is important to give and receive business cards with both hands, and managers should always pay the bills for their employees at social events.

Hong Kong is a dream country for many expats. Getting a job here in 2024 may be a bit difficult, but it is possible. Therefore, we advise you to pay attention to this country if you plan to build an international career.

Ihor Usyk - head of Visit World's legal department

To ensure a safe move to Hong Kong, consult a migration specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations when traveling abroad.

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