Published: 16.04.2026
Under the General Employment Policy (GEP), professionals with skills, knowledge or experience of value and not readily available in Hong Kong may apply for entry to work. The scheme is quota-free and non-sector specific, with an initial stay normally granted for up to 36 months or the duration of the employment contract.
According to the source, the GEP remains a principal route for qualified foreign professionals who need permission to work in Hong Kong. Applicants must demonstrate that their skills, knowledge or experience are valuable and not readily available locally, while also meeting general immigration requirements; approved applicants receive an e-Visa for entry. The route allows planning an initial stay of up to three years, but employment remains subject to the conditions of the permission and extensions should be filed before the permitted stay expires. This is particularly relevant to professionals considering relocation through a Hong Kong job, and much less relevant to visitors or people not intending to work.