GEP

General Employment Policy (GEP)

A common employment route built around a genuine Hong Kong job for a professional whose skills, knowledge or experience are needed locally.

GEP

General Employment Policy

GEP generally considers the applicant’s qualifications and experience, whether the role is genuine and relevant, and whether remuneration is broadly at market level. Both applicant and employer provide supporting evidence.

Who it fits

  • People with a Hong Kong job offer and qualifications, professional credentials or experience relevant to the role.
  • Managers, professionals or technical specialists whose employer can explain the business and recruitment need.

Core considerations

  • The role should be genuine and normally align with the applicant’s education, specialist skills or relevant experience.
  • Remuneration should generally be comparable to the Hong Kong market, and the employer must demonstrate a genuine operation and ability to employ.

How it relates to other routes

  • GEP and ASMTP are both employer-led professional employment routes, but their applicant scope and procedures differ.
  • Technology roles may also fall under TechTAS; the correct route depends on employer eligibility, the role and the applicant’s background.

Extensions and long-term planning

  • Extension normally requires continued compliance with conditions of stay and evidence of employment, income and employer circumstances.
  • After at least seven years of continuous ordinary residence, a person may seek verification of permanent resident eligibility based on individual facts; visa duration alone is not a guarantee.

Official resources

Important notice

This guide summarizes public Hong Kong Government information for general reference only. It is not legal or immigration advice and does not guarantee approval. Current eligibility, evidence, conditions of stay and final decisions remain subject to the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s assessment of each case.