Under the general rule, for every imported worker an employer must already employ and keep employing 2 full-time local employees (full-time is generally 35+ hours per week) — that is 2:1. For catering, production and floor posts are each calculated at 3:1 per department from 16 June 2026. Always follow the Labour Department’s current rules. Labour Services Company Ltd. (licence 81090) pre-checks ratios; not legal advice.
Last verified against Labour Department / Immigration Department publications: 2026-09-14.
How 2:1 is counted
Local full-time headcount is the numerator; imported workers the denominator. The LD verifies against MPF contribution records, staff rosters and payroll records. Part-time and non-continuous staff generally do not count.
Different ratios by industry and department
The ratio is not uniform: catering production and floor posts each count 3:1 independently (3 full-time locals per imported worker in that department) from 2026-06-16; other posts generally follow 2:1. Verify per post and department before applying.
If the ratio falls short
Options: grow the local full-time team first, or reduce the number applied for. Misstating the ratio is a breach — the LD can refuse applications and impose administrative sanctions of up to two years’ debarment.
Do part-time local staff count?
Generally no. Full-time is usually 35+ hours per week, verified through MPF and employment records.
How do 3:1 and 2:1 apply together?
By department: catering production and floor are each 3:1; other posts follow the general rule — declared separately on the application.
What if local staff leave while imported workers are employed?
The required ratio must be maintained; falling below can affect future applications and constitute a breach. Top up local headcount promptly and take advice.