FAQ – GEP
Initial stay of 24 months upon entry. You may apply to extend within 4 weeks before expiry. With subsequent successful extensions, you will normally be permitted to stay on a 3-3 years pattern. However, actual duration depends on the employment condition or the employment contract duration, whichever is shorter.
If you have worked for at least 2 years and have an assessable income for salaries tax of HK$2 million in the previous tax year, you may choose assessment under top-tier employment stream . In such case, you will normally be granted an extension for a period of 6 years.
Yes, you may apply (in your visa application or subsequently) for your spouse or lawful domestic partner (same-sex or opposite-sex) and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18. Some restrictions on applicant’s nationality apply.
Yes, they can study and take up employment in Hong Kong without any need for prior approval.
As required by your Employment as Professionals Visa, you must seek approval from the Director of Immigration before changing jobs. There is an exception if you are a top-tier professionals authorized to stay on a time restriction only. In such case, you will only need to notify the Immigration Department in writing.
- No security objection or known record of serious crime.
- Good education background, normally a first degree in relevant field. In special circumstances, good technical qualifications, relevant experience and achievements may do.
- A confirmed offer of employment relevant to your academic qualifications or work experience.
- A genuine vacancy that cannot be readily filled up locally.
- A remuneration package comparable to the Hong Kong labour market.
It may normally take the Immigration Department four to eight weeks to process an application.