Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China · skilled migration · Leads to settlement
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Points-based talent route for highly skilled or talented people to settle in Hong Kong without first securing a job offer.
- Processing time
- Applications are processed and selected in periodic exercises rather than on a fixed timeline; refer to the official page for current arrangements.
- Government fees
- A visa/entry permit fee applies on issuance. Refer to the Immigration Department fee schedule on the official page.
- Typical duration
- Initial stay normally up to 36 months under the General Points Test (or a longer initial period for Achievement-based applicants); renewable.
- Sponsorship required
- No
- Leads to permanent residency
- Yes
Overview
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme is a points-based route designed to attract highly skilled or talented people to settle in Hong Kong and enhance its economic competitiveness. Applicants do not need a job offer before applying. They are assessed under either a General Points Test (covering factors such as age, qualifications, experience and language) or an Achievement-based Points Test for those with exceptional accomplishments. The Director of Immigration selects successful applicants in periodic exercises.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓At least 18 years of age at the time of application.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ✓Able to support and accommodate yourself and dependants without relying on public assistance.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ✓No security objection and no known record of serious crime; good character.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ✓A good educational background, normally a first degree from a recognised university, or good technical qualifications and proven experience.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ✓Meet the minimum passing mark under the General Points Test, or qualify under the Achievement-based Points Test.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
Common blockers
- !Failing to reach the minimum passing mark and not qualifying under the achievement-based route.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- !Inability to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- !Security objection or record of serious crime.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- !Nationals of jurisdictions excluded from the scheme.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
Typical evidence
- ·Passport and personal particulars.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ·Academic and professional qualification certificates.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ·Evidence of work experience and, where claimed, professional achievements.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ·Proof of financial means to support yourself and any dependants.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
- ·Language proficiency evidence where relevant to the points claimed.Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) ↗
Application pathway
Check the route fit
Self-assess against the General Points Test or Achievement-based Points Test to confirm you reach the threshold.
Build the evidence pack
Assemble qualification, experience, financial and (if claimed) achievement evidence.
Submit through the official channel
Submit the QMAS application to the Immigration Department for assessment and selection.
After approval
If selected, activate the visa, settle in Hong Kong and renew toward seven-year residence.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- Official guidanceApplicantUse official Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) route page ↗
Use this official page to confirm requirements and follow the government filing route for Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS).
Immigration Department (Hong Kong SAR) · verified
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a job offer for QMAS?+
No. The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme does not require a confirmed job offer before you apply. It is a talent route assessed on a points-based test. Once admitted, you are free to take up or seek employment in Hong Kong.
What is the difference between the General and Achievement-based Points Tests?+
The General Points Test scores you across factors such as age, academic and professional qualifications, work experience, language ability and family background, with a published minimum passing mark. The Achievement-based Points Test is for individuals with exceptional accomplishments and is assessed against achievement-focused criteria rather than the general scoring grid.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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