Approximately 10,000 workers anticipated in Hong Kong through the establishment of a new imported labor scheme
Hong Kong Announces New Labour Channel to Address Skilled Workforce Shortage
The Hong Kong government has unveiled a new labour importation channel aimed at addressing the acute shortage of skilled professionals in eight key sectors. This initiative, which will allow over 10,000 qualified applicants to enter the city over the next three years, sees the age limit raised from 35 to 40.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Chris Sun Yuk-han, provided insights about the new channel during a radio interview on Friday. The policy, set to commence on June 30, falls under two existing talent admission schemes.
Non-degree professionals aged between 18 and 40 are eligible to apply, with the new channel offering visas valid for 24 or 36 months that are renewable for an additional three years. This policy adjustment, which initially intended the upper age limit to be 35, aims to attract mid-level, qualified, and experienced technical professionals who can contribute effectively to Hong Kong's labor market.
Notable sectors targeted for recruitment include lift maintenance workers, electrical technicians, and nurses in care homes, among others. Secretary Sun highlighted these key areas as having a severe manpower deficit.
Applicants must possess specific qualifications, work experience, and professional skills relevant to their respective trade, such as registration or licensing. They are also required to secure a job offer from a local employer, with remuneration packages that align with market levels for similar positions.
The age range, set to 40, ensures that applicants have sufficient experience while still being in their productive working years. The three-year pilot program, with a quota of 10,000 applicants, aims to attract individuals who can settle in Hong Kong and make lasting contributions to its economy.
The new labour importation channel in Hong Kong, intended for eight key industries like healthcare and technology, targets mid-level professionals aged between 18 and 40. This policy adjustment, falling under existing talent admission schemes, will boost Hong Kong's finance, business, and industry sectors by attracting skilled workers, addressing the manpower deficit in these areas.
