The Hong Kong government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing local employment under measures outlined in the 2025 Policy Address. Employers seeking to hire non-local waiters or junior cooks must now have already employed two full-time local workers in each respective role.
Secretary for Labor and Welfare, Chris Sun, disclosed that approximately 35,000 imported workers were working in Hong Kong as of late August, representing about 1% of the local labor force. The government will continue monitoring labor market conditions and adjust policies as needed.
Authorities are taking strict action against violations. Employers found breaching requirements face revocation of labor importation approvals and a potential two-year ban on future applications. Enforcement has been strengthened, with 12,543 joint operations against illegal workers conducted between January and August 2025 - a 5.1% increase in monthly average compared to the previous year.
The Immigration Department has also targeted illegal workers using social media platforms like Xiaohongshu to offer services in Hong Kong. Recent undercover operations led to 10 arrests, including eight mainland illegal workers.
Sun clarified that imported labor cannot obtain permanent residency through their employment status, distinguishing them from professionals admitted through talent schemes who may eventually qualify for permanent residence.
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