Hong Kong•AsiaID 1024 — Technology Talent Admission Scheme (科技人才入境計劃)
At a Glance
2 weeks
HKD $1,200–$1,900
Varies by filing options
3 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Fast-track work visa for STEM professionals conducting R&D at qualifying Hong Kong technology companies; up to 3 years initial stay.
TechTAS is Hong Kong's fast-track visa for international STEM professionals conducting R&D in technology sectors. Applicants need a Bachelor's degree in STEM (with one year's work experience, or no experience if Master's/Doctoral). The sponsoring employer must be a HKSTPC or Cyberport tenant in biotechnology, AI, cybersecurity, robotics, data analytics, fintech, or material science.
Initial stay is up to 36 months or employment contract length, whichever is shorter; renewals follow a 3-year initial extension followed by 2-year extensions. Fees: HKD 600 application plus HKD 1,300 issuance for stays over 180 days. Processing takes 2 weeks for initial applications, 2–3 weeks for extensions. Spouses work unrestricted; dependents permitted.
This visa is ideal for international STEM researchers and engineers conducting R&D at Hong Kong technology firms.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 3 years |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Hong KongRight of Abode / Permanent Residence (居留權/永久性居民)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Employer must be a tenant/incubatee of HKSTPC or Cyberport.
Employer must be engaged in biotechnology, AI, cybersecurity, robotics, data analytics, fintech, or material science.
Applicant must be a full-time employee in Hong Kong.
Applicant must hold a STEM degree from a well-recognized university.
Bachelor's degree holders need at least one year of relevant work experience; Master's/Doctoral degree holders do not.
Remuneration must be at prevailing market rates.
KEY CRITERIA
Education
bachelor or higher
Experience
1+ years
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Completed visa application form.
Copy of valid travel document.
Copy of Hong Kong identity card (if applicable).
Supporting letter from the employer detailing position, salary, and duties.
Proof of academic qualifications (STEM degree).
Proof of relevant work experience (if applicable).
Quota allotment letter from ITC.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Fast-track processing: just 2 weeks for initial applications upon document receipt
- Up to 3 years on first entry (or contract duration, whichever is shorter)
- Renewable with 3+2 year extension pattern; top earners (HKD 2M+ annually) get 5-year extensions
- Dependents can accompany you; spouse can work without restrictions
- Dual-intent visa: permits exploring permanent residency while on employment visa
- STEM degree holders qualifying; Bachelor's degree holders need only 1 year experience
- Streamlined employer pre-assessment: once company has quota, application is simplified
- Low initial fees: HKD 600 application fee plus HKD 600-1,300 issuance fee based on stay length
Worth Knowing
- Job offer required from qualifying technology employer (HKSTPC/Cyberport tenant)
- Limited quota system subject to validity periods and government policy changes
- Employer must be in specific sectors: biotech, AI, cybersecurity, robotics, data analytics, fintech, or material science
- Remote work not permitted; applicant must be full-time employee in Hong Kong
- Remuneration must meet prevailing market rates; salary requirements may be strict for top talent
- Strictly for R&D roles only—not available for administrative, sales, or general business positions
Application Process
Secure job offer
From Hong Kong employer, relevant to qualifications/experience
Check talent list qualification
If annual salary HKD 2M+, no local recruitment proof needed
Complete application
Technical Professionals Stream form or standard employment form
Gather documents
Job offer, educational credentials, work history
Submit to Immigration
Online via GovHK with HKD 600 fee
Await processing
Normally 4 weeks
Receive entry permit
e-Visa issued upon approval
Application Forms
Go to application portal| TechTAS 01 – Quota Application Form (HKSTPC/Cyberport/HSITPL tenants) | Fill online |
| TechTAS 02 – Quota Application Form (other eligible companies) | Fill online |
| Visa/Entry Permit Application (online, submitted via ImmD portal) | Fill online |
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