Hong Kong Talent Admission Schemes Overview | Generated by AI
Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) – “输入内地人才计划”
The ASMTP, launched in 2003, allows Mainland Chinese professionals with specialized skills to work in Hong Kong when local talent is unavailable. It remains a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s talent admission framework, with no indications of discontinuation. As of November 2025, it continues to operate actively, processing applications and supporting over 21,000 approvals in recent years alongside related schemes.
Key Recent Updates (2024–2025)
- Talent List Expansion: Effective March 1, 2025, the list now covers 60 professions (up from 51), exempting employers from proving local recruitment difficulties for roles in shortage areas. This streamlines ASMTP applications and integrates with the General Employment Policy (GEP).
- Extended Stay Options: Top-tier applicants (e.g., those with 2+ years in Hong Kong and HK$2M+ annual income) can now apply for a 6-year extension without employment conditions, up from shorter limits. Initial stays are typically 3 years, renewable in a “3+3+2” pattern.
- New Channel in 2025: A dedicated stream for young, non-degree holders with technical qualifications in skilled trades (e.g., construction, aviation) will launch this year, with quotas to address manpower shortages.
Longevity and Outlook After 5 Years (2030)
Hong Kong’s government has explicitly committed to reviewing and enhancing ASMTP as part of its ongoing talent strategy, with no plans for phase-out. The 2024 Policy Address and 2025 Immigration Department Review emphasize expansions to attract more Mainland talent amid economic needs. Given its role in filling sector-specific gaps under “One Country, Two Systems,” it’s likely to persist and evolve, potentially with further quota adjustments or integrations with schemes like TechTAS. After 5 years, expect continued operation, barring major geopolitical shifts, as it aligns with Hong Kong’s goal of admitting 35,000+ talents annually.
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) – “优秀人才入境计划”
Launched in 2006, QMAS is a points-based quota scheme (annual cap: 10,000 since 2023) for skilled global migrants to settle in Hong Kong without a job offer, focusing on economic contributions. It has approved over 20,000 entrants by late 2023 and remains integral to Hong Kong’s immigration portfolio, with robust enhancements in 2024–2025.
Key Recent Updates (2024–2025)
- General Points Test (GPT) Reforms: From November 1, 2024, scoring is more objective (e.g., +20 points for 3+ years at multinationals), with streamlined processing—applications now complete in weeks, not months. Achievement-based approvals grant 8-year stays.
- Talent List Integration: The March 2025 update favors QMAS applicants in 60 shortage professions, boosting points and fast-tracking under GPT.
- Extension Flexibility: High-earners (HK$2M+ income after 2 years) qualify for 6-year condition-free renewals. Initial visas are 2–3 years, renewable if job-seeking efforts are shown.
Longevity and Outlook After 5 Years (2030)
QMAS shows no signs of ending; it’s being actively refined to compete globally for talent. The government’s 2025 plans include a new “proactive invitation” mechanism for elite professionals, signaling long-term investment. With over 380,000 applications since 2022 and rising approvals (e.g., 12,969 in 2023), it’s poised for sustainability. In 5 years, anticipate quota increases or AI/tech-focused tweaks, as Hong Kong aims to retain its hub status—discontinuation is improbable given its track record and policy endorsements.
Both schemes support pathways to permanent residency after 7 years of continuous residence. For the latest, check the Immigration Department website, as policies adapt to labor market needs.
References
- Hong Kong Immigration Department - ASMTP
- Immigration Department Review 2024
- Fragomen - Talent List Update March 2025
- Hong Kong Immigration Department - QMAS
- Policy Address 2024 Enhancements