Special work arrangement for government workers aims to prevent spread of Coronavirus

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Hong Kong will close government offices and implement a special work arrangement for government employees starting Jan. 29 to prevent the further spread of the Coronavirus.

What does the change mean? Employees in the public sector, with the exception of emergency personnel and essential public service workers, will work from home starting Jan. 29, and government offices will be closed to the public until Feb. 2.

• Implementation time frame: Jan. 29 – Feb. 2.
• Services affected: All government offices, with the exception of emergency and essential public services, will be closed until Feb. 2.
• Who is affected: Employers and employees seeking government services between now and Sunday.
• Impact on processing times: Immigration processing may be delayed in the coming days because of the closures.

Background: Since the Coronavirus was first detected in December, countries have begun issuing travel bans and warnings to prevent the further spread of the virus. Hong Kong SAR has announced the temporary closure of six border control points and suspended railway and ferry travel to and from Mainland China effective from the early hours of Jan. 30 until further notice.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should note government closure dates and prepare for delays when moving employees from to Hong Kong and when filing immigration applications in-country. Deloitte will continue to monitor closures and subsequent delays.

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