Advice for Non-Hong Kong Resident Job Seekers
The HKSAR Government maintains a strict immigration policy. As a general rule, any person other than those having the right of abode, or right to land in Hong Kong, must obtain a Visa before coming to Hong Kong for the purpose of employment. Further information may be obtained by contacting Gemini Visa Service hotline at (852) 2525 7795 or email: geminivisa@gemini.com.hk
Gemini Visa Service is tailored specifically to either companies that are hiring foreign nationals as well as non-resident individuals that have received an offer of employment but are expected to secure their own employment Visa.
In addition to being able to take the hassle out of acquiring and extending employment visas, unique to Gemini Visa Service is the Visa tracking on-line feature whereby the entire Visa process can be reviewed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Additionally, Gemini Visa Service automatically alerts HR departments and individuals of future Visa extension dates and passport expiry dates, hence ensuring that foreign nationals are in Visa compliance at all times. It is also perfectly acceptable for overseas nationals to travel to HK on a visitor's visa for the purpose of seeking employment. More
Income tax is currently capped at 16% BUT for the tax year 2007-2008 there will be a one-off reduction of 75% in respect of salaries tax, subject to a ceiling of $25,000
For the tax year 2008-09 and onwards, the standard (maximum) rate will be lowered from 16% to 15%, and basic allowance and single parent allowance will be increased from $100,000 to $108,000, and married person's allowance from $200,000 to $216,000.
Companies, for the most part, require good communication skills in English, Cantonese or Mandarin, or all three.
If you are serious about working in Hong Kong, the best advice for a qualified overseas job seeker is to invest time and energy in contacting recruitment firms prior to visiting Hong Kong for interviews.
Once you have been interviewed by a Gemini Consultant the success rate in obtaining a position in Hong Kong is increased.
Hong Kong residents who are temporarily overseas and expect to return are encouraged to send resumes to Gemini inclusive of the position that is being sought and salary expectations. After arrival in Hong Kong it is advisable that Gemini is made aware of this and new contact details.
