7th January 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Immigration Department (ImmD) has carried out a series of territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations named “Contribute” from 30th December, 2024, to 7th January, targeting illegal renovation workers. During these operations, ImmD Task Force officers conducted raids on 88 locations, including ongoing renovation sites in newly constructed public housing estates. In total, 26 suspected illegal workers, aged between 20 and 57, and three suspected employers, aged 44 to 56, were apprehended.
Additionally, ImmD officers, along with a promotional vehicle, have been actively distributing “Don’t Employ Illegal Workers” leaflets and spreading awareness within the estates.
An ImmD spokesman highlighted the consequences of contravening stay conditions and employing illegal workers in Hong Kong, emphasizing the potential penalties of up to $50,000 in fines and two years of imprisonment for offenders. The spokesman also warned against employing individuals who are not lawfully employable, citing penalties of up to $50,000 in fines and three years of imprisonment for violators.
The ImmD reiterated the seriousness of employing unlawfully employable individuals, stressing that the penalties for employers have been significantly increased to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment to deter such violations. Employers are mandated to rigorously verify the employment eligibility of prospective hires to avoid legal repercussions. Failure to conduct proper checks or inspection can result in fines of up to $150,000 and one year of imprisonment for employers.
Furthermore, ImmD’s standard procedure involves screening vulnerable individuals, including illegal workers, immigrants, and others, to identify potential trafficking in persons (TIP) victims. Identified TIP victims receive comprehensive support services such as medical aid, counselling, shelter, and other forms of assistance. ImmD urges TIP victims to promptly report any crimes to relevant authorities for immediate intervention and support.
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