Recruitment

Civil Service is divided into different grades in accordance with the division of functionality. A grade is further sub-divided into a number of ranks. Vacancies at starting ranks (basic ranks) are normally filled by open recruitment and/or by in-service appointment from other grades. Civil service vacancies at higher ranks (promotion or supervisory ranks) in a grade may also be filled by recruitment targeted at suitable candidates from other grades within the Civil Service or outside the Civil Service where necessary and appropriate.

All applicants must meet the basic entry requirements in order to be considered for appointment. Applicants who meet the entry requirements are required to go through a competitive selection process. Such process may feature written examinations or trade tests to certify candidates' competencies in relevant skills or attributes, or to prioritise them for shortlisting purposes, before the candidates are invited for selection interviews. The recruitment board selects candidates on the basis of their merits and performance in examinations and interviews. Successful candidates are required to undergo other recruitment formalities, including medical examination and integrity checking, to ensure that they are fit for appointment.

In addition, for all civil service recruitment exercises to be advertised on or after 1 July 2022, attaining a pass result in the newly introduced Basic Law and National Security Law Test (BLNST) will be an entry requirement for all civil service jobs. The BLNST will assess candidates’ knowledge on both the Basic Law and the National Security Law. Please click here for details about the BLNST.