Hong Kong maintains an open and liberal policy towards entry for employment. Foreigners who possess special skills, knowledge or experience of value to, and not readily available in Hong Kong, or who are in a position to make substantial contributions to its economy are welcome to come to work. These people may bring with them their dependants and, after seven years of residence, may apply to become Hong Kong permanent residents. During the year, 16 929 professionals and persons with technical, administrative or manageria1 skills from more than 100 countries/territories were admitted for employment.