The Philippine consulate general in Hong Kong on Wednesday reminded Filipino tourists not to look for jobs or engage in business activities while visiting the territory on visa-free entry, warning that violators could face fines or jail under local laws.
In an advisory, the consulate cautioned that participating in paid work, soliciting business, or practicing professions might be prosecuted under Hong Kong Immigration law for breach of conditions on their stay.
“Tourists that engage in any paid activity, solicit business opportunities (e.g. selling of condominium units, investments, or insurance policies, or buying commercial interest in any business), or practice their profession (e.g. issuing legal advice or administering medical care) may be prosecuted under the Hong Kong Immigration Ordinance for Breach of Condition of Stay,” the advisory read.
“Offenders shall be liable to a maximum fine of HK$ 50,000 and maximum imprisonment for two years,” it added.
The consulate also warned that Filipino tourists who frequently travel between Hong Kong and Macau to extend their stay may be denied entry by Hong Kong immigration authorities.
It stressed that such actions could be seen as violating the 14-day visa-free privilege granted to Filipino visitors.
Earlier, a local news outlet reported that Hong Kong Immigration officers arrested 14 illegal workers, mostly Indonesians and Filipinos nationality, aged 28 to 50, who engaged in weekend sidelines to earn extra money.
The report noted that among the illegal workers were 11 foreign domestic helpers, a former helper who overstayed her visa, a tourist, and another with a temporary permit.
