Hong Kong anti-illegal labour operation nets 25 arrests
Hong Kong's Immigration Department arrested 25 people in an anti-illegal labour operation. Employers hiring unauthorised workers face fines up to HK$500,000 and 10 years in jail. The department warns of strict enforcement and urges reporting via dedicated hotline.
Hong Kong's Immigration Department announced the arrest of 25 people in an anti-illegal labour operation, according to a government press release on 9 November 2026. The department warned that anyone violating their conditions of stay or working without approval commits an offence, with penalties including a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and two years in prison.
A spokesperson stressed that under the Immigration Ordinance, illegal entrants, those subject to removal or deportation orders, overstayers, and refused entrants cannot take up paid or unpaid employment or run any business. Offenders face up to HK$50,000 in fines and three years in jail. The Chief Executive may also issue a deportation order against anyone convicted of an offence carrying at least two years' imprisonment, banning them from Hong Kong permanently.
Using or possessing a forged or another person's identity card is illegal, with a maximum penalty of HK$100,000 and 10 years in prison. The spokesperson emphasised that hiring unauthorised workers is a serious crime. Maximum penalties for employers who hire illegal entrants, deportees, overstayers or refused entrants have been raised from HK$350,000 and three years to HK$500,000 and 10 years in prison. Company directors, managers, secretaries and partners may also face criminal liability. The High Court has issued sentencing guidelines requiring immediate imprisonment for such offences.
Before hiring, employers must take all practicable steps to verify a worker's legal status, including checking identity cards and making inquiries. If a jobseeker lacks a Hong Kong permanent resident identity card, the employer must examine a valid travel document. Violators face up to HK$150,000 in fines and one year in jail. The spokesperson urged employers not to break the law, warning that the Immigration Department will continue strict enforcement.
Under standard procedures, the department screens all vulnerable individuals arrested—including illegal workers, illegal entrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers—for trafficking or forced labour indicators. Identified victims receive support such as emergency intervention, medical treatment, counselling and shelter. The department urged victims to report such crimes.
Members of the public can report illegal labour via hotline 185 185, fax 2824 1166, email [email protected], or the Immigration Department's website.
