Hong Kong offers 10 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Visa ProgrammeMin. IncomeSavingsProcessingDifficultyFamily
General Employment Policy (GEP)€1,967/moN/A14-21d5.0/10Yes
Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)€1,967/moN/A28-56d5.5/10Yes
Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)€1,967/moN/A14-14d4.5/10Yes
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)N/A€32,000180-360d6.0/10Yes
Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)€21,000/mo€25,00014-21d4.5/10Yes
Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG)N/A€8,00014-21d4.5/10Yes
Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)€295,000/mo€3,800,00056-84d7.5/10Yes
Investment as Entrepreneurs€65,000/mo€120,00014-21d4.5/10Yes
Working Holiday SchemeN/A€5,00028-42d5.5/10No
Training Visa€1,967/moN/A14-21d5.0/10No

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many visa pathways does Hong Kong offer?

Hong Kong offers 10 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.

What is the easiest visa to get for Hong Kong?

The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.

How long does it take to get permanent residency in Hong Kong?

The path to permanent residency in Hong Kong typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.

Can I bring my family to Hong Kong?

Most long-term visa categories in Hong Kong allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.

Do I need a job offer to move to Hong Kong?

Not all pathways require a job offer. Hong Kong may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.

Related: Hong Kong Guide · Cost of Living · All Countries