Transport labour importation schemes: aviation and PLB/coach drivers

Transport faces ongoing manpower shortages. The Government’s transport labour importation arrangements split into two sub-schemes: aviation, and public light bus / coach drivers. This page summarises who each covers, which posts, and the application essentials.

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Last updated: September 2026. The latest Transport and Logistics Bureau / Transport Department notices prevail.

Two sub-schemes

  • Aviation: companies with Airport Authority contracts | 10 designated frontline trades | Transport and Logistics Bureau
  • PLB / coach: qualified operators | drivers | Transport Department

Aviation sub-scheme

The aviation sub-scheme covers 10 designated frontline trades — ground handling, apron services, passenger services, cabin cleaning and more — for companies holding Airport Authority contracts. In the second round, 2,982 quotas were granted, mostly ground handling and apron staff.

PLB / coach sub-scheme

The PLB / coach sub-scheme targets driver shortages. Applicants must be qualified operators; imported drivers must hold recognised driving credentials, pass the relevant Hong Kong driving tests and complete required training before driving public vehicles.

Application process

File with the relevant bureau/department (aviation via the Transport and Logistics Bureau; PLB/coach via the Transport Department) → quota approval → mainland recruitment and medicals → visa applications with Immigration → arrival and induction training.

FAQ

Q: Can a general logistics company apply? A: Both sub-schemes have defined eligible applicants. Other companies can consider importing drivers and warehouse staff via ESLS — we can assess.

Q: Do imported drivers need local licences? A: Yes — they must pass the relevant Hong Kong driving tests and complete mandatory training.

Q: Wages? A: Not below the published median monthly wage for the comparable post.

Official sources

Sources: Transport and Logistics Bureau, Transport Department and Labour Department publications; official documents prevail.

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Transport labour importation schemes: aviation and PLB/coach drivers