HK introduces new visa scheme to tackle skilled labor shortages

The Hong Kong government announced on Friday a new visa pathway under its General Employment Policy (GEP) and the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP), set to launch on June 30. The initiative aims to attract non-degree professionals in eight key trades facing severe manpower shortages, addressing a critical gap in the city's workforce.

The three-year pilot scheme will have an overall quota of 10,000, with a maximum of 3,000 visas per trade. Eligible applicants must be aged 18 to 40 and meet specific qualifications outlined in the Technical Professional List. 

The list covers essential roles such as nurses, aircraft maintenance technicians, IT specialists, lift and escalator technicians, and electrical technicians, among others.

Applicants must secure a job offer from a Hong Kong employer with a salary matching market standards and possess the necessary licenses or work experience for their trade. 

Successful candidates will receive an initial visa valid for 24 or 36 months, with extensions possible if they continue working in the same field.

The government emphasized that the scheme targets mid-level skilled workers to fill gaps that cannot be quickly resolved through local training. 

A spokesperson noted that Hong Kong is projected to face a shortfall of 180,000 workers by 2028, with more than a third in technical roles. Unlike existing labor import programs, this new channel waives the market availability test, making it easier for employers to recruit overseas talent.

Authorities will review the program after the first year while continuing to prioritize local workforce development. 

Details on eligibility and application procedures are available on the Immigration Department and Hong Kong Talent Engage websites. For further inquiries, applicants can contact the ImmD hotline at 2824 6111.