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  • Hong Kong – QMAS vs. TTPS Which Hong Kong Immigration Scheme Is More Suitable for You?

Hong Kong – QMAS vs. TTPS
Which Hong Kong Immigration Scheme Is More Suitable for You?


Since the launch of the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) in 2022, more than 100,000 applications have been approved. The government has also stated that the popularity of the scheme has far exceeded expectations. The efficiency in processing and the scheme’s ability to attract talent are both unprecedented.


As more applications get approved, it is expected that the government's vetting criteria will gradually become clearer and stricter. If you are considering applying for a type of Hong Kong work visa such as TTPS, you should submit your application as soon as possible during “late honeymoon period”.


Many people, however, are unsure whether they should immigrate to Hong Kong through the Hong Kong Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) or the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS). What exactly are the differences between the two schemes? Here is a comparison of 6 factors to help you quickly determine which scheme is more suitable for you.



Factor 1: Eligibility Criteria

QMAS

Under the scheme, there are two assessment mechanisms — the General Points Test and the Achievement-based Points Test. Applicants may choose either one to apply and enter the selection process.

A. General Points Test: For applicants who can satisfy at least 6 of the 12 criteria, which cover age, academic qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, etc.

B. Achievement-based Points Test: For individuals with exceptional achievements, such as recipients of major national or international awards (e.g., Olympic medals, Nobel Prizes), or those with recognised contributions to their fields.


TTPS

Applicants may apply under one of three categories:

A.  Annual income of HKD 2.5 million or above (or equivalent foreign currency) in the year immediately preceding the application.

B.  Bachelor’s degree graduates from the world’s top 100 universities with at least three years of work experience within the past five years.

C. Bachelor’s degree graduates from the world’s top 100 universities within the past five years, with less than three years of work experience.


QMAS

Selection exercises are conducted regularly. Applicants meeting the basic requirements, having no criminal or adverse immigration record, and whose background aligns with Hong Kong’s manpower and economic needs are more likely to be selected for further assessment.



TTPS
There is no selection exercise. As long as documents are complete, the applicant meets the eligibility criteria, and there is no security objection or known record of serious crime, the application will generally be favourably considered.


Factor 3: Annual Quota

QMAS

The previous annual quota of 4,000 has been cancelled. The scheme currently has no quota limit.


TTPS

Only Category C is subject to an annual quota of 10,000 places, allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis.


Factor 4: Initial Stay Period

QMAS

General Points Test: Approved applicants are normally granted a 36‑month stay upon first entry without any conditions.

Achievement-based Points Test: Approved applicants are normally granted an 8‑year stay upon first entry without any conditions.



TTPS

Category A: Approved applicants are normally granted a 36 month stay upon first entry without any conditions.

Categories B & C: Approved applicants are normally granted a 24 month stay upon first entry without any conditions.


Factor 5: Extension Requirement & Period

QMAS

Applicants must have settled in Hong Kong, employed by a Hong Kong company with a degree-level position and market-level salary, or have established/participated in a business of reasonable size.

Normal extension pattern: 3 + 2 years.


TTPS

Applicants must have settled in Hong Kong for a period of time, employed by a Hong Kong company with a degree-level position and market-level salary, or have established/participated in a stable and sustainable business.

Normal extension pattern: 3 + 3 years.



Factor 6: Processing Time


QMAS

Processing normally takes 9–12 months after all documents are received.


TTPS

Processing normally takes 1–3 months after all documents are received.



Item

QMAS

TTPS

Application Criteria

A. General Points Test: Age, education, work experience, etc. (12 requirements in total, must meet at least 6)

B. Achievement Points Test: International award winners or individuals with significant industry contributions

A. Annual income of HKD 2.5 million or above

B. Bachelor’s degree from a global top 100 university + 3 years of work experience in the past 5 years

C. Bachelor’s degree from a global top 100 university, graduated within the past 5 years, with less than 3 years of work experience

Approval Principle

Must meet basic requirements and undergo selection process, evaluated based on Hong Kong’s manpower and economic needs

No selection mechanism; approval granted if documents are complete and no serious criminal record

Quota

No quota

Category C: 10,000 places per year, first-come-first-served

First Entry Period

General Points Test: 36 months
Achievement Points Test: 8 years

Category A: 36 months
Category B & C: 24 months

Extension Criteria

Must have settled in Hong Kong, employed by a Hong Kong company with a degree-level position and market-level salary, or have established/participated in a business of reasonable size

Must have settled in Hong Kong, employed by a Hong Kong company with a degree-level position and market-level salary, or have established/participated in a stable and sustainable business

Extension Period

3+2 year

3+3 year

Time Process

About 9-12 months

About 1–3 months




Conclusion

Applicants under both schemes may bring their spouses and children to enjoy employment and education benefits in Hong Kong, without the need for a prior job offer.

When comparing QMAS and TTPS, the most obvious advantage of the Top Talent Pass Scheme is its fast approval time, typically within 1 to 3 months, provided one of three category’s requirements are met. However, it is important to note that each applicant has only one chance to apply for TTPS.

In terms of visa extension applications, both QMAS and TTPS share similar requirements regarding residency and employment status.

Overall, if you are a high-income professional or a graduate from a top 100 university, and you plan to work in Hong Kong while seeking a quick pathway to residency, TTPS is generally the preferred option. If you do not meet the requirements for TTPS, then QMAS may be considered as an alternative.


For further guidance, please contact our immigration consultants for an assessment of which scheme best fits your situation.



References

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