In a significant policy shift, the Hong Kong government has implemented a substantial increase in work visa fees, with costs rising by up to eight times for certain applicants. This change, effective from February 26, 2025, is part of a broader strategy to address budgetary challenges and align visa processing fees with administrative costs
Overview of the New Fee Structure
The Immigration Department has introduced a two-tiered fee system for various admission schemes, including the Top Talent Pass Scheme, General Employment Policy, and Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, among others.
Key changes include:
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of HK$600 is now required for each application.
- Visa Issuance Fee:
- HK$600 for visas with a validity of 180 days or less.
- HK$1,300 for visas exceeding 180 days.
Previously, the total cost for a work visa was a flat rate of HK$230, making the new fees a significant increase for long-term applicants.
Rationale Behind the Increase
The fee adjustment is part of the 2025-26 Budget measures aimed at mitigating a fiscal deficit of HK$80.3 billion recorded in 2024. The government attributes the deficit to decreased revenue from land sales amid a sluggish real estate market. By implementing the “user pays” principle, the government seeks to recover administrative costs associated with visa processing.
Impact on Applicants and Employers
The new fee structure affects both principal applicants and their dependents under the specified schemes. Employers sponsoring foreign talent should anticipate higher costs and adjust their budgets accordingly. The increased fees may also influence the decision-making process for potential applicants considering Hong Kong as a destination for work or investment.
Continued Commitment to Attracting Talent
Despite the fee hikes, the Hong Kong government remains committed to attracting global talent. Recent initiatives include expanding visa-free access for Hong Kong SAR passport holders to countries like Qatar and updating the Talent List to include 60 in-demand professions, facilitating streamlined immigration processes for qualified professionals.
For more detailed information on the new fee structure and its implications, please refer to the official announcement by the Hong Kong Immigration Department. immd.gov.hk