Joseph, a migrant worker from mainland China, recently arrived in Hong Kong to work as a waiter in a New Territories restaurant. He made this move in order to be closer to his children who have been living in Hong Kong for over a decade. The new job allows him to earn a monthly salary of around HK$12,000, almost double what he was making in mainland China. However, he is required to live in a dormitory arranged by his employer and can only visit his children during his time off.
Joseph’s story is not unique, as there are many others like him who have made sacrifices to provide a better future for their children. These individuals belong to a group known as “double-nots,” who are mainland Chinese parents of children born in Hong Kong. While their children have permanent residency and access to education and social benefits, the parents do not have the right to work in the city.
One such parent is Rose, who moved to Hong Kong with her two toddlers after quitting her job in Shenzhen. Living in a subdivided flat in Sham Shui Po, Rose struggles to make ends meet while ensuring her children have a better future. With the cost of living in Hong Kong constantly rising, many double-not parents face financial difficulties.
In an effort to support their families, some double-not parents have turned to the non-local labour schemes introduced by the Hong Kong government. These schemes allow them to work in certain industries and earn a steady income. However, the process of securing a job as a migrant worker comes with its challenges, including high agency fees and opaque practices.
Despite the hardships they face, double-not parents like Tiffany feel fortunate to have found employment in Hong Kong. Tiffany, who works in a residential care home, sees this opportunity as a way to support her family and provide a better life for her children. While she acknowledges the struggles of being a migrant worker, Tiffany remains hopeful for the future.
As the Hong Kong government focuses on attracting top talent and high earners through various schemes, double-not parents feel neglected and forgotten. These individuals, who are raising the next generation of Hong Kong residents, are in need of support and assistance. Advocates like Wendy Huang from the Society for Community Organization (SoCO) have been working to raise awareness about the challenges faced by double-not families.
In the midst of economic uncertainty and rising unemployment, the future remains uncertain for double-not parents turned migrant workers. While they continue to work hard to provide for their families, they hope for a better tomorrow for their children. As Joseph aptly puts it, “everyone lives for their children, their next generation.” Despite the obstacles they face, these parents remain determined to overcome challenges and create a brighter future for their children.