Employment:
A work permit must be obtained before entry to Hong Kong and therefore before an individual can even apply for residency via the ID card system. Apply for a work permit well in advance of travel as the procedure can take 6 to 8 weeks or longer. A work permit is usually only issued for a specified period of time.
Application for a work visa is made to the Hong Kong Immigration Department directly or through the sponsor (usually the prospective employer) in Hong Kong. Alternatively, applicants can contact the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence. There is a charge for processing these applications.
There are various types of work permits issued.
Employment as a professional or entry for investment
An application for an entry visa/permit to enter Hong Kong for either work or investment will be considered more favorably if the following criteria are met:
- The applicant has no criminal record
- The applicant has good qualifications and/or professional experience
- The applicant already has an employment offer
- The employer is offering a package that includes income, accommodation, medical and other benefits on the same level as for professionals in Hong Kong.
Self-employed people
Anyone applying for an investment visa for self-employment must provide documentation detailing the following:
- Educational background
- Professional qualifications
- The proposed business and capital
- Information about how the business will benefit Hong Kong and whether a local work force will be employed
Investment-based employment visas are becoming more difficult to obtain. The most important criteria includes proof that the business is well capitalized and will be able to set up office and employ local staff fairly immediately, and the support of another well-established business, whether local or overseas.