Two assessment routes
- General Points Test: assessed on 12 criteria covering age, education, work experience, language and more — meet at least 6
- Achievement-based Points Test: for people with international awards or outstanding achievements
First period of stay
- General Points Test: 36 months
- Achievement-based Points Test: eight years
During this time you can freely take up employment or start a business.
Selection
Applications go through periodic selection; meeting the threshold does not guarantee selection. Overall processing usually takes about six to nine months.
QMAS or TTPS?
If you qualify for TTPS, approval is generally faster; professionals who do not qualify for TTPS can consider QMAS.
QMAS at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | No investment required |
| Job offer | Not required |
| Assessment | General Points Test: meet at least 6 of 12 criteria |
| First stay | General 36 months; Achievement-based 8 years |
QMAS application process and timing
- Assessment and scoring (1–2 weeks): We assess your competitiveness under the points tests.
- Prepare and submit (2–4 weeks): Gather evidence of your education, work and achievements.
- Selection and approval (Usually about 6–9 months): Through periodic selection and approval; meeting the threshold does not guarantee selection.
- Arrival and extensions (Per your visa period): After arriving, apply for extensions when the conditions are met.
Main QMAS requirements
- Aged 18 or over and able to support yourself financially
- Good character, with no adverse immigration or criminal record
- Good written and spoken Chinese or English
- Normally a university degree (exceptions may be considered)
- General Points Test: meet at least 6 of the 12 criteria; or meet one of the two Achievement-based criteria
- Sufficient means to support your first year in Hong Kong
Key benefits of QMAS
- No prior job offer needed
- Suits highly qualified, experienced professionals
- Bring your spouse and children to Hong Kong
- Apply for permanent residence after seven years
More questions about QMAS
What is the difference between the two points tests? The General Points Test scores a range of personal factors and suits most professionals; the Achievement-based Points Test suits people with international awards or outstanding achievements.
Should I choose QMAS or TTPS? If you qualify for TTPS, it is usually faster; professionals who do not qualify for TTPS can consider QMAS.
Next step
Every family’s background, funds and timeline are different. Global Immigrate’s professional consultants can assess, free of charge, whether this programme suits you and compare other options. You can also request the full programme brochure on the programme page.
Learn more: Hong Kong Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)