New Hong Kong Visa Fees 2025 For Foreign Professionals: What You Need To Know

If you are a Filipino professional or investor planning to work or invest in Hong Kong, take note of the new Hong Kong visa fees for foreign professionals. Effective February 26, 2025, the government has introduced a revised visa fee structure, increasing costs for those applying under various admission schemes in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Skyline | Ben Cheung via Pexels

These changes aim to balance administrative expenses while ensuring the city remains a key destination for skilled workers.

Also read: Hong Kong's New Hotel Tax: What It Means for Your Travel Budget

New Hong Kong visa cost 2025: How much will you pay?

Under the Immigration (Amendment) Regulation 2025, the new fees are as follows:

• Applicants under specific admission schemes must pay a HKD 600 (PHP 4,500) fee for each application, whether for entry, modifying visa conditions, or extending their stay.

• Once approved, the visa or entry permit fee is based on a tiered system:

  HKD 600 (PHP 4,500) for stays of up to 180 days

  HKD 1,300 (PHP 10,000) for stays of 181 days or more

For Filipino professionals and investors planning to apply for Hong Kong work permits, this means additional expenses.

Who will be affected by the changes?

Hong Kong Visa | Gwengoat via Getty Images Signature

The visa fees for foreign professionals apply to several key talent admission schemes in Hong Kong, including:

• Top Talent Pass Scheme

• General Employment Policy

• Quality Migrant Admission Scheme

• Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals

• Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates

• Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

• Technology Talent Admission Scheme

• Vocational Professionals Admission Scheme

• Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents

For those applying under these schemes, the Hong Kong visa application process in 2025 will now involve higher fees. However, those applying for visas outside these schemes will not be affected by these changes.

Why the increase in Hong Kong visa fees?

The Hong Kong government has adopted a "user pays" principle, requiring applicants to cover administrative costs. With the growing demand for Hong Kong immigration, this adjustment ensures sustainability while maintaining Hong Kong’s position as a top destination for foreign professionals.

A surge in applications for talent admission schemes Hong Kong

The popularity of Hong Kong work visa programmes has surged in recent years:

• 2022: 58,000 applications

• 2023: 221,000 applications

• 2024: 208,000 applications

With a 250 percent increase since 2022, the city remains a hotspot for skilled workers and investors looking for opportunities abroad.

Updated 2025 Hong Kong talent list: Faster immigration and easier hiring

Skilled workers | hitsanupong's Images via Canva Pro

To meet workforce demands, Hong Kong has revised its Talent List, effective March 1, 2025. The updated list features 60 in-demand professions, ensuring that eligible applicants can benefit from fast-track immigration for skilled workers.

For those applying under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, General Employment Policy, or Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals, there is a major advantage. Employers no longer need to prove recruitment difficulties, making it easier for foreign professionals to secure jobs.

Hong Kong investment visa fee changes 2025

For investors, the revised fees under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme mean higher costs for an investment visa. Applicants should take note of these changes and plan accordingly.

Is Hong Kong still a good choice?

Despite the impact of Hong Kong's visa fee increase on foreign investors and professionals, the city remains a strategic location for business and career growth. With its business-friendly environment, strong economy, and updated immigration policies, it is still one of the best places for skilled workers.

Also read: A 48-Hour Guide to Shopping & Eating in Hong Kong

If you are considering applying for a Hong Kong work visa, start preparing now. Ensure you understand the Hong Kong General Employment Policy application requirements, stay updated on immigration policy updates for skilled workers, and plan for any visa extension fees.

With proper planning, you can still make the most of Hong Kong’s opportunities!