Hong Kong
Employment Visa
The Hong Kong Employment Visa allows qualified professionals to work in Hong Kong for an employer. It requires a job offer from Hong Kong. The Immigration Department sets the timeline; we tell you the current state in the call.
Last updated: 10/2026
Why an HK Employment Visa?
The Employment Visa (General Employment Policy) is for professionals who have a job offer from a Hong Kong company or are being transferred to Hong Kong by their employer. The initial stay is normally up to 36 months, or the length of the contract if shorter; extensions usually follow a three-then-two-year pattern (Immigration Department, read 22 Oct 2026).
The application is processed through the Immigration Department. We put together a complete application with you and your employer; the Immigration Department makes the decision.
A company of your own does not replace a visa, but it may be part of your plans. What a Hong Kong company involves, from annual duties to the bank account, is set out in our overview of the Hong Kong company.
What the Employment Visa allows
Process
Consultation & Review
Review of your qualifications and job offer.
Document Preparation
Compilation of all required documents and forms.
Application Submission
Submission to the Immigration Department.
Approval & Visa
Receipt of approval and visa issuance.
Want your own company in Hong Kong instead of a job? A Limited can be formed without moving: Hong Kong company formation →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change employers?
How long is the visa valid?
What happens if you lose your job?
Can my family come along?
What is the path to Permanent Residency?
What income tax will I pay in Hong Kong?
Can I start my own company?
Clarify your route in one call
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Pathfinder StartWhatsAppKey Requirements
Hong Kong Visa Types Comparison
| Criterion | Employment Visa | Investment Visa (CIES) | Startup Visa | Top Talent Pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Professionals | Investors | Entrepreneurs | Top Talents |
| Minimum Investment | None | HKD 30M | N/A | None |
| Validity | Up to 36 months | 2 years, then up to 3 each | Up to 36 months | 2 Years |
| Family Reunion | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Work Permit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Path to PR | 7 Years | 7 Years | 7 Years | 7 Years |
Target Audience
Minimum Investment
Validity
Family Reunion
Work Permit
Path to PR
Source: Immigration Department Hong Kong and New CIES Office, read 22 Oct 2026; Top Talent Pass not re-checked.
Contact our Hong Kong Team
Tell us what it is about: company formation, accounting and tax, or a visa. You will hear from us within one business day.
Strasia Group · Hong Kong
Office
Unit 1005, 10/F, Boss Commercial Centre
28 Ferry Street, Yau Ma Tei
Kowloon, Hong Kong
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