Articles

What is the 417/468 Rule in Hong Kong and What’s Changing?  Under current law, the “418 rule”, an employee must work at least 18 hours a week for 4 consecutive weeks to be considered under a continuous contract. This status is crucial because only continuous-contract employees get key benefits like paid rest days, annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, as well as severance and long service payments. 

Hong Kong, 21 November 2025 – Ravenscroft & Schmierer was recognised at the Racial Diversity & Inclusion Employers Award Ceremony, organised by the Equal Opportunities Commission (“EOC”). This recognition highlights our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and promoting equal opportunities for all. 

Hong Kong does not slip quietly into your life; it arrives all at once. Neon spills across pavements, trams ring their bells like polite door knockers, and the harbour breathes with the ferries. During my first months here, I learned these lessons the hard way. This is both my story and a practical Hong Kong relocation guide to help you avoid the same pitfalls.

When an employment relationship comes to an end, it is common for employers to offer a termination package to employees. Some of these payments are taxable as Salaries Tax under Hong Kong laws, but some heads of payment may be treated as non-taxable if structured carefully. This article is a practical guide on simple steps that may be taken by both the employers and the employees to structure termination payment in a legal and compliant, yet tax-efficient manner. 

Hong Kong, November 2025 – Ravenscroft & Schmierer has achieved a significant milestone by securing a place in The Legal 500 Asia Pacific rankings for another consecutive year. We are recognised as one of Hong Kong’s Leading Independent Law Firms in the category of Commercial, Corporate and M&A, reaffirming our reputation for excellence and client-focused service.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape of Hong Kong, the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (“ESG”) criteria and sustainability cannot be overstated. As global awareness of climate change and social responsibility grows, there is a rising demand for green finance, with business increasingly seeking green loans to support their sustainable initiatives. 

Studying law in the UK offers exciting opportunities; but it also comes with unique challenges for Hong Kong and international students. From adapting to independent learning and navigating cultural differences to budgeting for tuition and choosing the right city, this guide shares practical insights to help you make informed decisions and thrive in your legal education journey abroad.

Hong Kong’s courts are quietly advancing LGBTQ+ rights, even as lawmakers resist change. From inheritance to housing and parental recognition, legal victories are reshaping the landscape. With growing public support—60% favor same-sex marriage—the judiciary is leading the way toward equality.

Administering a property goes beyond simply identifying the new owner. The transfer must be formally recorded on the public title at the Land Registry to provide a clear chain of ownership for the future.