TRAVELER

Relocating to Hong Kong

Information based on current research for German citizens wishing to live and work in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Available Visa Types for German Citizens

German citizens can apply for the General Employment Policy (GEP), the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS), and the Working Holiday Scheme. Hong Kong remains a major strategic base for German professionals in logistics, engineering, and finance.

Main Work Routes

TTPS

Top Talent Pass Scheme. For earners with HK$2.5M+ annual income or graduates from the world's top 100 universities. No job offer needed for initial entry (2 years).

GEP (Employment)

General Employment Policy. For professionals with specialized skills. Requires a local employer sponsor and market-rate salary.

Working Holiday

Allows Germans (18-30) to work and travel for 1 year. Annual quota: 300 places. Requires proof of funding (approx HK$20,000).

General Requirements

Valid German Passport

Relevant University Degree or Professional Qualification

Confirmed job offer with sponsorship (GEP cases)

No criminal record or security objection

Bank statements of the last 3 months

Typical Process

E-Services Submission

Submit your application online via the HK Immigration Department (ImmD) e-Services portal.

ImmD Review

ImmD processes the application. Professional schemes (GEP/TTPS) take 4-8 weeks on average.

Pay & Download

Upon approval, pay the fee online and download your electronic visa/entry permit slip.

Entry & Registration

Enter HK and present the e-visa. Book an appointment for an HKID card within 30 days of arrival.

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Germany

Märkisches Ufer 54, 10179 Berlin, Germany

+49 30 275880

china-botschaft.de

Service Note

German residents should submit applications online to ImmD in Hong Kong. The Embassy in Berlin provides consular assistance and notarization of German documents required for the visa.

Hong Kong Work Guide