Hong Kong attracts talent from around the world through the Talent Visa program, which allows skilled professionals to work and live in the city, contributing to economic growth and innovation. Find out how to get a Talent Visa to work in Hong Kong in 2025, who can apply, what the requirements are for candidates and how the application process works.

Order an insurance policy for safe travel, stay or work abroad

BUY

Hong Kong is a city known for its vibrant economy, international business environment and modern infrastructure. It is a popular place to work for skilled professionals who want to work and live in Asia. One of the ways Hong Kong attracts talent from around the world is through the Talent Visa program, a permit designed to facilitate the entry of highly skilled individuals who can contribute to Hong Kong’s competitive and innovative economy.

Everything you would want to know about the Hong Kong Talent Visa, including eligibility criteria, application process and the latest changes in 2025, in this article.

Planning a trip abroad? Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal.

Hong Kong Talent Visa – What is it?

A Talent Visa is a work permit issued by the Hong Kong Immigration Department to foreign professionals who have been recognized for their exceptional skills, knowledge or experience in certain fields. This allows skilled foreign professionals to benefit from fast-track immigration under key visa schemes such as QMAS, GEP and ASMTP, with relaxed employment restrictions.

The Talent Visa allows foreigners to live and work in Hong Kong for a specified period of time, with the possibility of extension. After seven years of continuous residence, they can apply for a permanent residence permit.

Who is eligible for a Hong Kong Talent Visa?

The Talent Visa is available to a wide range of individuals who have specialized skills and experience that will contribute to Hong Kong’s economic growth. Although the program is flexible in its criteria, the most common candidates for this visa are:

- Professionals

Skilled professionals with higher education and work experience in fields that are in demand in Hong Kong.

- Entrepreneurs

Foreigners who want to start their own business in Hong Kong, provided that it adds value to the Hong Kong economy.

- Researchers

Individuals who specialize in cutting-edge research and development in fields such as science, technology and healthcare.

- Outstanding Talent

Exceptional individuals, particularly in fields such as arts, sports and culture, who can demonstrate extraordinary skills and potential.

Which professionals can obtain a Hong Kong Talent Visa?

Talent Visa can be granted to professionals in various sectors. In total, representatives of one of the 60 eligible professions can obtain a Hong Kong talent visa:

1. Information Technology (IT)

Software Developers, Mobile App Developers, Blockchain Specialists

- Cloud Computing Experts

- Data Analysts

- Data Scientists

- Digital Marketing Specialists

- UX/UI Designers

- Web Developers

- Network Security Experts

- Fintech Specialists

- IT Project Managers

- Experienced System Architects

- Robotics Engineers

- Innovation and Technology Specialists

- Legal Knowledge Engineers (for Technology)

2. Finance and Banking

- Actuaries

- Asset Management Professionals

- Financial Analysts

- Financial Specialists with Experience in the Islamic Market

- ​​Risk Management Specialists

- Auditors

3. Medicine and Healthcare

- Medical Scientists

- Health Care Professionals

- Pharmacists

- Biomedical Engineers

4. Engineering and Construction

- Aircraft Maintenance Engineers

- Chemical Engineers

- Civil Engineers

- Electrical Engineers

- Electronic Engineers

- Environmental Engineers

- Geotechnical Engineers

- Infrastructure Engineers

- Structural Engineers

- Telecommunications Engineers

- Marine Engineers

- Mechanical Engineers

- Semiconductor Engineers

- Robotics Engineers

5. Energy and Environment

- Green Energy Experts

- Renewable Energy Experts

- Sustainable Delivery Professionals

- Sustainability Experts

6. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

- Logistics Managers

- Supply Chain Managers

7. Legal and Legal

- Legal Knowledge Engineers

- Patent Specialists

8. Science and Research

- Research Scientists

- Data Scientists

- Experienced Commodity Trading Professionals

- Nanotechnology Experts

9. Business and Project Management

- Project Managers

- Construction Managers

- Quantity Surveyors

- Innovation Managers

- Construction Managers

10. Marketing and Design

- Marketing Analysts

- Product Designers

11. Other Specialized Occupations

- Marine Surveyors

- Urban Planners

- Industrial Engineers

Requirements for Foreigners for Hong Kong Talent Visa

Applicants for the Hong Kong Talent Visa must meet certain criteria to be eligible for this work permit:

- Appropriate level of education

Applicants must have a recognized higher education degree or professional qualification relevant to the occupation they are applying for. In many cases, a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement, but a master's degree or specialized certificates may be preferable for certain positions.

- Work experience

Applicants must have relevant work experience in their field. The exact amount of experience required may vary depending on the job. Generally, 1-3 years of professional experience is expected for most positions, while more years of experience may be required for higher-level positions.

- Job offer from a Korean employer

A job offer from a company in Hong Kong. The employer must demonstrate that the position is suitable for the applicant and cannot be filled by a local employee.

- Appropriate salary level

The salary offered to the applicant should be in line with the market rate for the profession and be sufficient to cover the individual’s living expenses.

- Language skills

While proficiency in English or Chinese is not mandatory, it can improve the applicant’s chances.

In addition, applicants must have no criminal record and must be able to demonstrate that their entry to Hong Kong will benefit the local economy.

Salary level for Hong Kong Talent Visa in 2025

The Hong Kong Government does not set specific salary requirements for all applicants, but requires that the proposed salary be in line with the average level for the chosen field.

In 2025, the expected salary for applicants depends on the industry, position and level of experience. However, the averages are as follows:

- Information Technology (IT)

The average salary for an IT professional can range from HK$30,000 to HK$60,000 per month or more, depending on experience and expertise (e.g. software engineers, data scientists, artificial intelligence specialists).

- Finance and Banking

Salaries in the financial sector are generally high. For professionals such as investment bankers or financial analysts, salaries can range from HK$40,000 to HK$80,000 per month or higher, depending on experience and position.

- Healthcare

Doctors, medical researchers and nurses often earn between HK$35,000 and HK$75,000 per month, although specialists (e.g. surgeons or anesthesiologists) can earn even higher salaries.

- Engineering

Engineers in fields such as mechanical or electrical engineering can earn between HK$30,000 and HK$60,000 per month.

- Legal and Regulatory

Lawyers and compliance officers typically earn between HK$40,000 and HK$70,000 per month.

- Creative and Design

For professionals in design, marketing and media, salaries can range from HK$25,000 to HK$50,000 per month depending on experience.

- Salary Thresholds

Although there is no fixed salary threshold for each category, the minimum acceptable salary for an applicant is usually around HK$18,000 to HK$20,000 per month for lower-skilled or entry-level jobs. However, applicants with specialized skills and higher qualifications often receive significantly higher offers.

Hong Kong Talent Visa Application Package

To apply for a Talent Visa, an applicant must submit a package of documents. These include:

1. Completed Application Form: A standard form provided by the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

2. Valid Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport, valid for at least six months.

3. Proof of Qualifications: Copies of degrees, certificates and any other relevant qualifications.

4. Proof of Work Experience: A detailed CV and letters of recommendation from previous employers, if applicable.

5. Job Offer Letter: A letter from a prospective employer in Hong Kong detailing the position, salary and terms and conditions of employment.

6. Proof of Financial Stability: Documents that prove that the applicant can support themselves financially, such as bank statements or salary slips.

7. Recent passport-sized photographs: Several recent passport-sized photographs.

Depending on the applicant’s specific situation, additional documents may be required, such as a business plan for entrepreneurs or research documents for academics.

Interested candidates can apply through the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s online platform.

The processing time for Talent Visa applications usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, but may vary depending on the complexity of the application.

Is it allowed to move with family?

Talent Visa holders can move with their spouse and unmarried children under 18 years of age as dependents, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

Current Talent Visa Fees in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has implemented a revised application fee structure for the Talent Visa Schemes from 26 February 2025. This includes a new application fee and a two-tier visa issuance fee, which is aimed at attracting qualified professionals and investors.

- Application Fee

A new fee of HKD 600 is now required for each application. The fee is non-refundable.

- Visa Issue Fee

The visa issuance fee is divided into two tiers depending on the duration of the visa:

HKD 600 for visas with a validity of up to 180 days.

HKD 1300 – for visas valid for more than 180 days.

The Talent Visa program in Hong Kong offers exciting opportunities for skilled professionals in various sectors. By attracting talent from all over the world, Hong Kong continues to contribute to economic growth, innovation and competitiveness on the international stage. Whether you are an IT specialist, entrepreneur, researcher or creative expert, the Talent Visa provides an opportunity to live and work in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Book a consultation with a migration lawyer to find out the current rules for moving and working in Hong Kong in 2025.

As a reminder, Hong Kong has long been a global hub for finance, technology and innovation, attracting talent from all over the world. Its strategic location, low taxes and favorable business environment make the country an attractive destination for international professionals looking for new opportunities. We have already told you what types of work visas are available for expats in Hong Kong in 2025, which professionals are in demand and what salary a foreigner can expect in this country.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information. Therefore, if you see any error or discrepancy, please write to our hotline.