The answer first
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) admits highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong without first securing a job offer. Applicants are assessed against a points system, either the General Points Test or the Achievement-based Points Test, and selected within an annual quota.
Extensions depend on showing that you have settled in Hong Kong through employment or business. Approval is at the Immigration Department's discretion and cannot be guaranteed.
At a glance
- Job offer needed?
- No
- Assessment
- General Points Test or Achievement-based Points Test, within an annual quota
- Initial stay (General)
- 36 months
- Family
- Spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18
Two ways to qualify
| Test | Who it suits | Initial stay |
|---|---|---|
| General Points Test | Professionals scored on age, education, work experience, language, talent list and other factors | 36 months |
| Achievement-based Points Test | People with exceptional talent or outstanding achievement, such as an award of distinction | Longer initial stay, as granted by the Immigration Department |
Prerequisites
- Age 18 or above at the time of application.
- Able to support and accommodate yourself and any dependants without public assistance.
- No criminal record or adverse immigration record.
- Good command of written and spoken Chinese (Putonghua or Cantonese) or English.
- A first degree from a recognised university, or exceptional qualifications in specified cases.
After approval
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Arrival | Enter on the visa or entry permit; apply for a Hong Kong identity card within 30 days if staying more than 180 days |
| Settling | Take up employment or establish or join a business |
| Extension | Apply within the last 3 months of your limit of stay with evidence of employment or business and income |
| Family | Spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18 may apply as dependants |
| Permanent residence | Possible after 7 years of continuous ordinary residence, subject to assessment |
Key takeawayThe extension, not the initial approval, is where many QMAS entrants struggle. Plan your work or business in Hong Kong from the day you arrive.
Please confirmQuota, scoring criteria, extension patterns and government fees are revised from time to time. Approval is at the Immigration Department's discretion and cannot be guaranteed.
Self-check: where do you stand?
| Question | If the answer is no |
|---|---|
| Do you meet all prerequisites? | Check each one before applying |
| Have you estimated your score under the General Points Test? | Review the latest criteria |
| Do you have a plan for work or business in Hong Kong? | Prepare one before arrival |
| Will you keep evidence of employment, business and income? | Set up records from day one |
How DBMS Global can help
- Eligibility and points assessment.
- Preparing the application and dependant applications.
- Setting up and running your company if you plan to start a business.
In summary
- No job offer needed.
- Points-based, with an annual quota.
- Extensions depend on settling here.
Official references
- Immigration Department: Quality Migrant Admission Scheme and guidance notes, www.immd.gov.hk
- Immigration Department: fees for specified schemes (effective 26 February 2025)