1. Introduction
Due to the educational excellence, Hong Kong attracts numerous non-local graduates seeking career opportunities. However, understanding the visa options available for non-local graduates is crucial for their successful integration into Hong Kong’s workforce.
Non-local graduates must obtain a valid work visa to work legally in Hong Kong. Additionally, they should ensure the compliance with immigration regulations. Two main visa types cater to non-local graduates: The General Employment Policy (GEP) and the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG).
The GEP is suitable for non-local graduates who have secured job offers in professional fields.
Eligible applicants
- They must demonstrate a high level of skills, knowledge, or experience required for the position, and
- The position should not readily be filled by a local candidate.
2.2 Immigration Arrangement for Non-Local Graduates (IANG)
a) What is IANG?
The Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) is to encourage non-local graduates to pursue professional careers in Hong Kong. This program allows non-local students who have completed a full-time local degree or higher qualification in Hong Kong to apply for the opportunity to work and stay in the city.
The Hong Kong Immigration Department individually evaluates each application submitted under the IANG. The assessment considers factors such as the applicant’s skills, knowledge that matches the job requirements, and the complexity of the duties.
If an applicant is successful under the IANG, they may be granted permission to work in Hong Kong for a period of 24 months. However, they need to meet the normal immigration requirements. It’s important to note that the duration of permission to work is not dependent on the length of the employment contract, but rather on meeting the standard immigration criteria.
b) What are the requirements?
Individuals who have entered Hong Kong with a student visa or entry permit by the Director of Immigration for educational purposes, are eligible to apply for IANG. Applicants graduated from Hong Kong a long time ago can also apply for IANG.
Overseas Chinese residents holding a Chinese passport can also apply for entry into Hong Kong under the IANG if they meet the following conditions:
- Has permanent resident oversea OR
- Has been residing oversea (countries or territories outside of Mainland China, Hong Kong or Macau) for at least one year immediately before the submission of the application.
Applicants who are unable to provide proof of graduation are not eligible to apply under the IANG. However, if an applicant has completed their studies but has not yet received their graduation certificate, they can still apply by providing confirmation of graduation from their educational institution.
Additional Considerations:
Non-local graduates applying IANG face no limitations on the number of times they can apply for a visa. Non-local graduates who have obtained a visa under the IANG, completed their employment, and left Hong Kong, can return for a different job opportunity and re-apply for another visa.
Once admitted under the IANG, individuals are free to explore new employment opportunities in Hong Kong during their stay without needing prior approval from the Hong Kong immigration department.
2. How Fastlane HR can help
Fastlane HR can help our clients to apply their working visa. We understand all aspects of visa application and can maximize the success rate of your application.
Contact us if you need for help!