Four women aged between 20 and 31 have been arrested after allegedly coming to Hong Kong as visitors to offer makeup, photography and tour-guide services. The Immigration Department said they will be charged with breaching their conditions of stay.
The arrests followed a two-day operation on 27 and 28 September. Officers monitored service accounts on social media, posed as customers, made enquiries and booked appointments before arresting the women when they arrived to provide the services. Photography equipment, props, makeup supplies and smartphones were seized.
One woman allegedly advertised hairdressing and makeup for about HK$700 a session. The other three allegedly offered photography and tour-guide services for HK$400 to HK$600. The packages included itinerary planning, photography-equipment rental and styling guidance at attractions such as theme parks, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and West Kowloon Cultural District. Customers were asked to pay a deposit in advance.
The department reminded visitors that they need approval from the Director of Immigration before undertaking paid or unpaid employment, or establishing or joining a business. A convicted visitor can face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and two years’ imprisonment. Anyone who employs a person unable to work legally can face a maximum fine of HK$500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment.
The Immigration Department urged consumers to be cautious about unknown providers offering cheap or convenient services through social media. It has also been distributing leaflets in tourist areas to warn visitors not to hire illegal workers.