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Construction Sector Labour Importation Scheme: eligibility, quotas and process

Construction has faced persistent manpower shortages. The sector-specific Construction Sector Labour Importation Scheme lets eligible contractors import skilled and semi-skilled workers. This page covers the key facts, eligibility, process, and how it differs from the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS).

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Last updated: September 2026. The Development Bureau’s latest notices prevail.

Scheme at a glance

  • Approving authority: Development Bureau (not the Labour Department)
  • Quota cap: 12,000 sector-wide
  • Eligible works: public works contracts generally valued at HK$1 billion or above
  • Applicant: main contractor
  • Staffing ratio: 1 imported worker : 2 full-time local employees
  • Application windows: quarterly
  • Wage floor: not below the median monthly wage of the comparable local post

Who can apply

The scheme mainly serves public works contracts valued at HK$1 billion or above, with the main contractor as the applicant. The staffing ratio is generally 1:2 — one imported worker for every two full-time local employees.

Process and timing

Quarterly application windows → Development Bureau approval (quotas and trades) → in-principle approval → visa applications with the Immigration Department for each worker → arrival and onboarding. Lead time depends on the approval round — plan ahead of your works programme.

How it differs from ESLS

The construction scheme is sector-specific (12,000 quota cap, Development Bureau). ESLS is run by the Labour Department and covers technician-level-or-below posts across all industries. If your contract does not qualify for the construction scheme, individual trades may still be imported via ESLS — we can assess both routes for you.

FAQ

Q: Can private projects apply? A: The scheme focuses on large public works; arrangements for private projects follow the Development Bureau’s latest notices. Contractors who do not qualify can consider ESLS for individual trades.

Q: Wage requirement? A: As with ESLS, pay must not fall below the published median monthly wage for the comparable post.

Q: Housing? A: Employers must provide compliant housing to the same standard as ESLS (at least 3.4 m² net floor area per person). We offer a one-stop dormitory arrangement service.

Official sources

Sources: Development Bureau and Labour Department publications; official documents prevail.

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Construction Sector Labour Importation Scheme: eligibility, quotas and process