Hong Kong Visa & Work Permit Complete Guide 2026

Hong Kong is Asia's international financial hub, actively attracting top talent in finance, law, and technology. The flat 15% tax rate is a key drawcard.

Main Visa Types

Employment Visa

The most common visa for foreigners employed by Hong Kong companies. Employers apply to the Immigration Department.

• Application fee: HKD 230
• Validity: Up to 2 years (renewable)
• Requirements: Skills, knowledge, or experience not readily available in Hong Kong

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

Points-based scheme for high-skilled individuals wishing to relocate without a job offer. Two scoring tests available.

• General Points Test (age, education, work experience, language ability)
• Achievement-Based Points Test (for internationally recognized achievers)
• Subject to annual quota

Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

Introduced in 2022 to attract top global talent:

• Annual income of HKD 2,500,000+ in the past year, OR
• Graduate of a top-100 world university, OR
• Same, graduated within 5 years with HKD 1,500,000+ annual income

Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

Reopened in 2023. Requires HKD 30,000,000+ invested in Hong Kong assets.

Cost Summary

Pre-Move Checklist

1. Changing political landscape: Always verify the latest regulations
2. High housing costs: Hong Kong rents are among the world's highest — careful MoveWorth simulation is essential
3. MPF (Mandatory Provident Fund): Employees must contribute 5% of salary

Hong Kong's low tax rate and financial sector concentration are major attractions, but the extremely high cost of housing is the biggest challenge.