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Only Hong Kong residents between 15 and 59 year old can apply for unemployment benefits and there are strict residence requirements. You must be a resident for at least seven years, which sets aside most newcomers for these benefits.

Like other benefits in Hong Kong, applicants will be assessed financially and the environment will be taken into account as well (family for instance). Newcomers without work will have to prove they can suffice to themselves financially before allowed to enter Hong Kong. Note that this applies to students coming to study in Hong Kong as well so be aware of this rule. There is no automatic right to a state unemployment benefit.

Anyone who was employed and then are eventually out of work may ask for benefit but note that state benefits in Hong Kong are not easy to come by.

Like for Social Security, see the Social Welfare Department:
www.swd.gov.hk/en/index/