10,000 workers expected in Hong Kong under new imported labour channel
Age limit in the eight job categories has also been raised from the earlier proposed 35 years to 40, the government says
A new labour importation channel is expected to bring 10,000 professionals in eight job categories to Hong Kong, with the age limit being raised from an earlier proposed 35 years to 40, the government has said.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han on Friday revealed details of the new channel under two existing talent admission schemes, while a government spokesman said the policy would come into effect on June 30.
Non-degree professionals aged between 18 and 40 can come to work in Hong Kong under the new channel and obtain a visa for 24 or 36 months, with the possibility of extending it for another three years. The government originally proposed the upper age limit to be set at 35 years.
Sun said he expected workers to arrive at a younger age and stay in Hong Kong to build a life and career.
“Setting it at 40 years old is more ideal,” he said on a radio show. “We expect that if they come at 40, they can work until 65, meaning at least 25 years of contribution to Hong Kong’s economy.”
Sun identified lift maintenance workers, electrical technicians and nurses in care homes as among key areas for recruitment.