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Hiring Imported Security Guards

Property management vacancies remain stubbornly high. Over 2,000 imported guards already serve Hong Kong estates — here is how to apply, including the SPP licence pathway.

Updated for the 16 June 2026 rulesRatio: 2:1Requires SPP permit

Key rules for security employers

Security guard is an ESLS common post at Tier 1 (2:1 ratio, 4-week recruitment). Every guard working in Hong Kong must hold a Security Personnel Permit (SPP) after completing a recognised QAS basic training course. Imported guards complete the course and obtain the permit after arrival — we pre-screen candidates and arrange training so the arrival-to-duty gap is typically 1–3 weeks.

Common posts and median wages

PostMonthly median wage (HKD)Entry requirements
Building attendant / security guard (property mgmt)$15,440P6 · 1 yr experience · 9 hrs/day
Property assistant$15,440P6 · 1 yr experience

Source: Labour Department, "ESLS List of Common Posts" (revised 22 June 2026), official PDF. Median wages are updated periodically; the figure at time of application prevails.

📌 One-off government costs: Employees Retraining Levy HK$9,600 + visa fee HK$330 = HK$9,930 per worker. Our service fee, local recruitment advertising and dormitory deposit are all $0. Monthly costs: wages (not below the median) plus accommodation — for approvals on/after 16 June 2026, employers may deduct up to 20% of monthly wages or the actual accommodation cost, whichever is lower.

Application process and timeline

An ESLS application typically takes 4–6 months: submission (form ESLS-1A/1B) → local open recruitment → Labour Advisory Board assessment and approval-in-principle → candidate matching via licensed mainland labour agencies → Immigration Department visa → arrival and onboarding. We handle all documentation, recruitment advertising and follow-up at zero service fee to employers.

FAQ

Can imported guards work night shifts?
Yes, per the Standard Employment Contract, but a worker must not be required to work more than 12 hours (including overtime) in any 24-hour period.
Who applies — the owners' corporation or the security company?
The applicant must be the direct employer. Where security is outsourced, the security/property management company applies; direct employment by an owners' corporation is also possible.
How soon can guards start after arrival?
After completing QAS training and obtaining the SPP, usually 1–3 weeks. We arrange courses in advance to minimise idle time.

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