What do I need to do to hire an employee in Hong Kong?

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July 25, 2025

July 25, 2025

Hiring employees is essential to a business, so as an employer, you must be aware of the requirements and process of hiring an employee.

Who you can hire

You should comply with the guidelines issued by the government to avoid discrimination in the workplace. Employers should hire people based on their abilities, aptitude and knowledge and should not turn down people just because of their gender, disability, family status, race or age.

You can employ anyone aged 15 or above, however, young persons (15-18 years old) employed in industrial undertakings are subject to working hour regulations according to the Employment Ordinance.

You can employ students and foreign workers (subject to VISA requirements) too.

Employment rules

The Employment Ordinance states the relevant rights and benefits offered to all employees. For example, those who are working under a continuous contract of employment are entitled to benefits such as maternity leave and annual sickness days.

The Minimum Wage Ordinance states that employers must pay employees at least a minimum wage (which is HK$37.5/ hour in 2021).

The employment rules apply to all employees, but they may not apply to independent contractors or the self-employed.

Paperwork requirements

There are 4 documents you will require to hire an employee in Hong Kong, including:

Paperwork	When it should be completed	What you must do
Employment contract	Before the date of commencement of an employment contract	An employment contract, preferably written, should be agreed by both parties. It must include the wage, wage period, termination notice period and any end of year payment.
Insurance	Purchase insurance for your employee(s).
MPF	Within 60 days of employment	Enrol your employee into an MPF scheme On the 10th day of this month, make your first MPF contribution to the employee
Tax	Within 3 months of commencement	Fill in the taxation form to the Inland Revenue Department