Hong Kong Government Lifts Work Restrictions for International Postgraduate Students

In a progressive move, the Hong Kong Government has initiated a two-year pilot scheme, starting from November 1, 2023, allowing full-time international postgraduate students greater flexibility to work part-time during their studies. This exemption, previously subject to a “No Objection Letter” (NOL) and limited to 20 hours per week, aims to enhance students’ overall experience by enabling them to seek employment opportunities, including curriculum-related internships and summer jobs.

Under the trial arrangement, the Immigration Department (ImmD) will conduct briefing sessions for relevant institutions, introducing the suspension of work restrictions for eligible students. The new NOLs will be issued through the institutions, eliminating the need for students to submit separate applications. This significant change is anticipated to provide students with broader exposure to the Hong Kong job market, fostering a greater understanding of local work environments and potentially encouraging them to consider Hong Kong for post-graduation career development.