Work and travel in Hong Kong: International Experience Canada
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
An official global travel advisory is in effect: Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
Check the Pandemic COVID-19 travel health notice.
Check our Travel Advice and Advisories for more information.
If you need financial help to return to Canada, check COVID-19: Financial help for Canadians outside Canada.
What Hong Kong offers
Hong Kong is considered the Pearl of the Orient. Although Cantonese is the primary language used in Hong Kong, English is also widely used and is considered one of the official languages. Hong Kong is unique as it is a modern world-class city yet rooted in rich traditional values and customs. As one of the top trading economies in the world, Hong Kong is world renowned for its free trade economy with low tax rates and minimum government intervention.
For nature lovers, Hong Kong has a wide range of hiking areas and beaches which are just a short journey away from the busy urban streets. Hong Kong also offers popular theme parks such as Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
You can also explore the traditional side of Hong Kong by visiting the Wong Tai Sin Temple or stroll through an array of street markets like Temple Street night market or the Ladies' Market.
For the foodies, Hong Kong is well-known as a food paradise. It offers a wide range of delicacies, from international to regional Chinese cuisines like dim sum or local treats like egg tarts and Hong Kong style milk tea.
Who can apply?
To work in Hong Kong through the Working Holiday Scheme, you must:
- be a Canadian citizen
- be 18-30 years old (inclusive), and
- have a valid Canadian passport
Other requirements may apply, check Hong Kong’s website for more details.
What type of work visa do I need?
You need to apply for a Working Holiday Visa.
Do I need a formal job or internship offer?
No, you do not need a formal job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.
How long can I stay and work?
You can stay and work in Hong Kong for up to 12 months.
You can participate in the Working Holiday Scheme once.
How do I apply?
You can apply in-person through the Embassy of China in Ottawa or a Consulate General of China in Canada. You can also apply by mail through the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Plan your trip
The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our travel checklist to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country.
Need help planning? One of IEC’s recognized organizations (ROs) might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice.
Most ROs charge a fee for their services.
More resources
- Tourism Hong Kong
- Check for travel advisories
- Living and working in Hong Kong
- Safety and travel advice for LGBTQ2 travellers
Need more help planning? Contact a recognized organization.
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