Short answer: The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass lets high earners (HKD 2.5 million+ annual income) or graduates of eligible universities come to work and live in Hong Kong quickly. First visa is normally two years; approval takes about four weeks. Extensions require proof of employment or a business in Hong Kong, and permanent residence is possible after seven years of continuous ordinary residence.
Three categories
| Category | Main requirement | Quota |
|---|---|---|
| A | Annual income of HKD 2.5 million or more in the year before applying | No quota |
| B | Bachelor’s degree from an eligible university + at least three years’ work experience | No quota |
| C | Bachelor’s degree from an eligible university with less than three years’ experience | Annual quota |
Application steps
- Confirm you meet Category A, B or C.
- Submit online with supporting documents.
- Collect the e-visa and activate it in Hong Kong.
- First visa is usually two years; later extensions follow a 3+3 pattern.
- After seven years of continuous ordinary residence, apply for permanent residence.
Extension and PR points
- Extensions require employment or self-employment/business in Hong Kong.
- “Ordinary residence” is assessed by days present, family and economic ties — not a simple 183-day count.
- Spouse and unmarried children under 18 can be included.
Compared with other Hong Kong routes
- QMAS: points-based, no job offer needed, but longer processing.
- CIES: requires HKD 30 million investment, for high-net-worth applicants.
- TTPS: fastest and clearest criteria for those who already meet the income or degree threshold.
Based on public information as of September 2026. Try the Programme Finder to see if it fits.