Published on 1 February 2026

Hong Kong: Employment

Hong Kong is considered a leading international service, trade and financial centre. There are very few jobs in manufacturing, as most of this industry has been relocated to mainland China.

Qualified professionals and specialists can find work in the service sector (trade, logistics, finance, hospitality). The labour market reacts strongly to economic fluctuations.

Employment law

Hong Kong's Employment Ordinance regulates the most important minimum requirements of labour law. Employment conditions are primarily determined by the given employment contract. Rules for the given sector must also be observed. In European companies, employees work about 40 hours per week, generally working overtime often without necessarily being compensated for it. There are no limits on working time in Hong Kong, nor are there limits on overtime for persons over 18.

Work permit

There are various kinds of work visas. Visa formalities must always be completed by the employer before the employee's arrival. You can find out which visa is right for you and how exactly to go about getting it on the website of Hong Kong's Immigration Department.

Finding a job

While the labour market is relatively open to foreigners, it is still rather hard to get a job in Hong Kong. Among job-seekers from abroad, employers focus on those with qualifications that few or none of the local job-seekers have. Flawless English is a fundamental requirement. You can get a leg up in the job market if you can demonstrate very good skills in Mandarin or, even better, Cantonese (the local language of Macao and Hong Kong). Many companies are interested in expanding their trade with the West. Keep in mind that companies must demonstrate that they have considered local applicants first when applying for visas for foreign workers.

Private employment agencies

A large number of job portals can be found online. Job advertisements are also published in English-language newspapers.

Recognition of educational qualifications

Information on the recognition of academic and professional qualifications is available on the enic-naric.net website. The addresses of national information centres (e.g. Swiss ENIC) are also provided.

Self-employment and starting your own business

The government encourages self-employment, start-ups and foreign investment. To become self-employed or start a business, you must obtain a licence. Find out more at the following offices.

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