The Hong Kong Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) is a bilateral cultural and educational exchange programme that allows young people from selected countries to work, travel, and study in Hong Kong for up to one year.
The purpose of the scheme is to promote people-to-people connections, deepen cultural understanding, and strengthen Hong Kong’s international ties.
What Is the Working Holiday Scheme?
The Hong Kong Working Holiday Scheme enables eligible young travellers (aged 18 to 30) from participating countries to spend a year in Hong Kong.
Participants can take up short-term employment and/or enrol in short study or training courses, as long as their primary purpose remains holidaying.
It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Hong Kong’s dynamic mix of East-meets-West culture, gain work experience, and explore Asia’s global business hub.
Participating Countries and Annual Quotas
As of July 2025, Hong Kong has bilateral Working Holiday agreements with the following 14 countries:
| Country | Annual Quota | Work Restrictions | Study Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 5,000 | Max 3 months with same employer | Unlimited courses ≤3 months each |
| Austria | 100 | Max 6 months | Total ≤6 months |
| Canada | 200 | Max 3 months with same employer | Total ≤6 months |
| France | 750 | Max 6 months | One course ≤6 months |
| Germany | 300 | Max 3 months with same employer | One course ≤6 months |
| Hungary | 200 | Max 6 months | One course ≤6 months |
| Ireland | 200 | Max 3 months with same employer | Study not allowed |
| Italy | 500 (effective date to be confirmed) | Max 3 months per employer, total ≤6 months | Total ≤6 months |
| Japan | 1,500 | Max 6 months with same employer | Total ≤6 months |
| Korea (Republic of) | 1,000 | Max 6 months with same employer | One course ≤6 months |
| Netherlands | 100 | Max 6 months with same employer | Total ≤6 months |
| New Zealand | 400 | Max 3 months with same employer | One course ≤3 months |
| Sweden | 500 | Max 6 months with same employer | Total ≤6 months |
| United Kingdom | 1,000 | Max 12 months | Total ≤12 months |
✅ All applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until each country’s annual quota is filled.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Hong Kong Working Holiday visa, an applicant must:
- Hold a valid national passport from one of the participating countries.
- Dutch applicants must reside in the European part of the Netherlands.
- Be aged 18–30 at the time of application.
- Reside ordinarily in their home country.
- Intend primarily to holiday in Hong Kong (not to work full-time).
- Provide financial proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
- Hold a return air ticket or proof of funds to purchase one.
- Maintain valid insurance (medical, healthcare, hospitalisation, repatriation, and liability) throughout the stay.
Minimum Financial Requirements
Participants must show proof of having at least the following funds upon application:
| Country | Minimum Funds Required |
|---|---|
| Australia | HK$20,000 |
| Austria | HK$20,000 |
| United Kingdom | HK$22,000 |
| Canada | HK$15,000 |
| France | HK$25,000 |
| Germany | HK$20,000 |
| Hungary | HK$25,000 |
| Ireland | HK$20,000 |
| Japan | HK$20,000 |
| Korea (Republic of) | HK$20,000 |
| Netherlands | HK$20,000 |
| New Zealand | HK$14,000 |
| Sweden | HK$20,000 |
| Italy | To be confirmed |
💡 Tip: Bank statements or savings passbooks are acceptable proof of funds.
Insurance Requirements
All participants must hold comprehensive insurance coverage for the duration of their stay:
- Canada, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Korea, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, UK:
Medical, healthcare (including hospitalisation), repatriation, and liability insurance. - France:
Insurance covering medical, hospitalisation, pregnancy, disability, and repatriation. - Austria & Germany:
Liability and medical insurance covering hospitalisation and repatriation. - Japan:
Proof of sufficient medical insurance.
Visa Fee
- Free of charge for citizens of Ireland, Japan, and Korea.
- Standard visa fees apply for all other countries (refer to Hong Kong Immigration Department).
Application Process
Applications are handled by the Immigration Department of Hong Kong or the Chinese embassy/consulate in the applicant’s home country.
Processing is typically 4–6 weeks, and applicants are advised to apply well in advance.
Steps:
- Complete the Working Holiday Visa Application Form.
- Prepare supporting documents (passport, proof of funds, insurance, return ticket, etc.).
- Submit via your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate General.
- Await approval and collect your visa label before travel.
Why Choose Hong Kong for Your Working Holiday?
- Asia’s business and cultural hub – dynamic mix of East and West.
- Tax-friendly system – one of the lowest personal tax rates in the world.
- Safe, efficient, and globally connected city.
- Gateway to Mainland China and Southeast Asia for weekend trips and career exploration.
Whether you want to gain professional experience, learn Cantonese, or simply explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities — Hong Kong’s Working Holiday Scheme offers the perfect year-long adventure.
