How do you apply for a work or residence entry permit in Hong Kong in 2026?

The General Employment Policy (GEP) covers many non-Mainland professionals hired into Hong Kong roles that cannot readily be filled locally. Mainland talent routes such as the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) use a parallel employment channel. Other schemes exist for investment, quality migrants, and technology talent; pick the ImmD page that matches your facts instead of forcing every case into GEP language.

GEP files usually need the applicant, the employing company, and any accompanying dependants to submit together online. Expect a job offer, company particulars, proof of the applicant's skills and experience, and travel-document biodata. ImmD assesses whether the role and the person fit the scheme, not whether you already like Mid-Levels flats.

ImmD directs GEP and ASMTP employment applications through the GovHK online employment entry service. Upload supporting documents, pay the non-refundable application fee during submission, then wait for ImmD messages. If officers ask for supplements, reply through the designated online channel rather than restarting a duplicate file.

After approval, specified schemes require a separate visa issuance fee before you can download or print the e-Visa yourself through ImmD or GovHK payment links. Carry the e-Visa and passport for entry. Extension of stay or change of conditions later is a different ImmD application, not a reprint of the first approval letter.

Check the limit of stay stamped or endorsed on arrival. If you may remain more than 180 days, start the HKID appointment clock immediately: Get a Hong Kong Identity Card. Open banking and mobile lines once identity documents are ready: Open a bank account and Get a mobile phone.

Employees should also expect Mandatory Provident Fund enrolment once the job is continuous enough under MPF rules: Set up MPF. Public healthcare rates depend on HKID and valid stay: Enrol in public health access.