Work, worth, and whose culture? Occupational status change and acculturation after Hong Kong migration

This study investigates how employment-related changes—specifically occupational status and household income—shape acculturation orientations among recent Hong Kong migrants in the United Kingdom. It examines whether English proficiency, negative occupational status change, and income shifts influence migrants’ sense of belonging, cultural preferences, and diasporic engagement. An online survey of 1155 Hong Kong migrants in the UK (October–December 2024) captured self-reported changes in employment, income, and language proficiency before and after migration. Occupational status was assessed using the International Socio-Economic Index (ISEI), and regression analyses examined their effects on acculturation outcomes. English proficiency increased the likelihood of full-time employment and higher income but did not prevent negative occupational status change. Migrants experiencing negative occupational status change reported weaker identification with the UK and stronger engagement with Hong Kong diasporic networks, while those maintaining or improving their occupational status showed greater affinity for British lifestyle norms. Income changes alone had limited impact on acculturation. These findings emphasize the critical role of stable or positive occupational status change in shaping integration pathways. © 2026 The Authors.