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Introduction to Hong Kong Quality Migrant Admission Scheme Visa
The Hong Kong Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is a points-based immigration program designed to attract talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong. It aims to enhance Hong Kong's economic growth and global competitiveness by admitting skilled and high-caliber professionals. Unlike other visa programs, QMAS allows successful applicants to come to Hong Kong without having secured a job offer in advance, offering greater flexibility and opportunities for career growth.
Why To Choose Hong Kong?
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Strategic Location: Hong Kong is a gateway to China and other Asian markets, making it a crucial financial and business hub.
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Economic Prosperity: With low taxes, a stable economy, and a robust business infrastructure, Hong Kong is an ideal place for career and business growth.
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International Opportunities: Hong Kong has a multicultural environment and serves as a bridge for professionals seeking opportunities in Asia and beyond.
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High Quality of Life: With excellent healthcare, education, and modern infrastructure, Hong Kong offers a high standard of living.
Hong Kong QMAS Visa Application Steps
Stage 1: Prerequisites for the QMAS Visa
All applicants must meet the following prerequisites before they can proceed with the points-based tests:
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Age: The applicant must be 18 years old or above at the time of application.
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Financial Requirement: The applicant must demonstrate the ability to financially support themselves and any dependents without relying on public assistance during their stay in Hong Kong.
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Good Character: The applicant must not have a criminal record or any adverse immigration history in Hong Kong or elsewhere.
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Language Proficiency: The applicant must be proficient in written and spoken Chinese (Cantonese or Putonghua) or English.
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Basic Educational Qualification: Applicants must possess a recognized first degree from a university or tertiary institution. In some cases, good technical qualifications or proven professional abilities may also be considered.
If any of the above prerequisites are not met, the application will be immediately rejected and will not be processed further.
Stage 2: Points-Based Assessment
Once the prerequisites are met, applicants are assessed under one of two points-based tests:
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General Points Test
- This test considers five point-scoring factors, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other achievements.
- A minimum passing mark is required for eligibility under this test.
Stage 3: Selection Process
After the points-based assessment, selection exercises will be held on a regular basis to allocate available quotas:
- Applicants who meet the prerequisites and pass the points tests will be ranked based on their scores.
- High-scoring applicants will be shortlisted for further evaluation.
- The Advisory Committee on Admission of Quality Migrants and Professionals, which advises the Director of Immigration, will assess socio-economic needs and recommend how best to allocate quotas.
- Meeting the minimum score does not guarantee quota allocation. The results of each selection exercise are published on the Immigration Department’s website.
Stage 4: Approval-in-Principle
Applicants who are allotted a quota will receive an Approval-in-Principle letter:
- They must attend an interview in Hong Kong and present original documents for verification.
- Entry to Hong Kong is granted on visitor conditions for this purpose.
- Receiving an Approval-in-Principle letter does not guarantee final approval.
Stage 5: Issuance of Visa
Once the documents are verified and all procedures are completed successfully, the applicant will be granted a QMAS Visa/Entry Permit for staying and working in Hong Kong.
Dependants
Applicants under the QMAS can apply to bring their spouse and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 to Hong Kong. The length of stay for dependants will usually be tied to that of the main applicant. It is recommended that applicants submit dependant visa applications together with their QMAS application, especially if claiming points for family members (e.g., educational qualifications of the spouse or number of children).
