Currency
Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
EOR IN Hong Kong
Employer of Record in Hong Kong
Yes, you can hire an employee in Hong Kong without setting up your own company there. Swivelt acts as the Employer of Record in Hong Kong through our own local entity, so you can hire, onboard, and pay staff compliantly, usually within a couple of weeks. No local entity, and no third-party partner.
GET STARTED
EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS IN Asia - Pacific
A guide to employing and growing your team in Hong Kong
Fast and compliant market entry. Hire top local talent without the need for a legal entity
Hong Kong is a leading global financial hub and a premier gateway for trade between mainland China and the rest of the world. Its economy is characterized by low taxation, free trade, and a highly efficient services sector, particularly in banking, logistics, and professional services. The labor market is flexible and governed by the Employment Ordinance, which sets out the basic terms and conditions of employment. As of May 1, 2026, the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) in Hong Kong is HKD 43.10 per hour, following a new annual review mechanism designed to keep pace with economic growth and inflation.
Employer Contributions
Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF): 5% (capped at HKD 1,500/month)
Total Employer Contribution: 5%
Employee Payroll Taxes
Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF): 5% (capped at HKD 1,500/month)
Total Employee Contribution: 5%
Employee Income Tax Rates
Hong Kong utilizes a progressive salaries tax system. Employees are charged the lower of the two following methods:
Progressive Rates on Net Chargeable Income: First HK$50,000: 2% ; Next HK$50,000: 6% ; Next HK$50,000: 10% ; Next HK$50,000: 14% ; Remainder: 17%
Standard Rate: A flat rate of 15% on net income (for the first HK$5 million, 16% on the remainder).
Statutory Leave
In Hong Kong, employees are entitled to 7 days of annual leave after 1 year of service, which gradually increases to 14 days after 9 years. There are 13 statutory public holidays per year.
Pregnancy and Maternity Leave
In Hong Kong, employees are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave, paid at 80% of average wages, subject to a cap. The leave is funded by the employer, with partial government reimbursement in some cases.
Paternity Leave
In Hong Kong, fathers are entitled to 5 days of paternity leave, paid at 80% of average wages, subject to a cap.
Other leaves
In Hong Kong, sick leave accrues up to 120 days and is paid at 80% of wages. Work injury leave is covered under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, which includes compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. Employees are also entitled to at least 1 rest day per week.
Termination Process
Either employer or employee can terminate the contract by giving proper notice or payment in lieu. Employers must ensure compliance with statutory protections and avoid unlawful dismissal (e.g., during pregnancy or sick leave).
Notice Period
During probation (first month): no notice required
After first month of probation: typically 7 days
After probation: as per contract (commonly 1 month)
Probation Period
Not legally required.
Common practice: 3 months
Can you hire in Hong Kong without a local entity?
Yes. Through Swivelt’s EOR service, we become the legal employer in Hong Kong on your behalf. You choose and manage the employee. We handle the local employment contract, payroll, tax, benefits, and compliance.
What Swivelt handles in Hong Kong
1
A compliant Hong Kong employment contract
2
Monthly payroll in Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
3
Local income tax and social contributions
4
Statutory benefits and leave
5
Ongoing compliance with Hong Kong labour law
EOR FAQs
How long does it take to hire in Hong Kong?
Usually one to two weeks once we have the candidate’s details, because our Hong Kong entity is already in place.
Do we need our own company in Hong Kong?
No. Swivelt’s local entity is the legal employer, so you do not need to register anything.
Does Swivelt use a local partner in Hong Kong?
No. We operate through our own entity in Hong Kong.