How To Apply For Hong Kong’s Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) 

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) is a special work and residence visa introduced to attract high-income professionals and top-tier graduates to Hong Kong from around the world. Launched on 28 December 2022 under Hong Kong’s Talent Attraction Strategy, TTPS aims to draw global professionals to strengthen Hong Kong’s workforce, boost economic growth, and enhance its global competitiveness. Unlike traditional work visas, TTPS does not require applicants to secure employment with a Hong Kong employer in advance, offering exceptional flexibility for top talent to explore career or business opportunities in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Key Takeaways

No Job Offer Required

Apply for TTPS without securing prior employment in Hong Kong.

Three Eligibility Categories

Open to high-income earners and graduates from the world’s top 100 universities.

Fast Approval

Average processing time is approximately four weeks after complete submission, though additional documents may extend this timeline.

Full Flexibility

Successful applicants can work, change jobs, or start a business freely during their 24-month stay.

Family Inclusion

Eligible dependents — spouse and unmarried children under 18 — can join the principal applicant to live, study, and work in Hong Kong.

What Is The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)?

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) is a special work and residence visa introduced by the Hong Kong government to attract highly skilled professionals and high-income earners from around the world. It was launched on December 28, 2022, as part of Hong Kong’s broader talent recruitment initiatives, TTPS aims to strengthen the city’s workforce, encourage innovation, and maintain Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the global economy.

Applicants admitted under TTPS are granted an initial 24-month stay, providing full flexibility to take up employment, change jobs, or start a business in Hong Kong during this period. Unlike traditional visas, the scheme does not require applicants to have a job offer or a business plan at the time of application, making it a highly attractive pathway for global talent looking to explore career or entrepreneurial opportunities in Hong Kong.

Learn more about TTPS on the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website

Key benefits for global talent under TTPS:

• Freedom to work or establish a business without prior employment sponsorship.
• Can bring dependents, including spouse and children under 18, on a dependent visa.
• Fast and straightforward application process, with expected processing times of around four weeks.
• Access to Hong Kong’s vibrant economy and professional ecosystem as a hub for innovation and business growth.

Why TTPS Matters

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) offers a flexible route for international talent to live and work in Hong Kong, making it one of the most attractive immigration options for highly skilled professionals and high-income earners. By removing the requirement for a prior job offer or a business plan, TTPS allows global talent to explore employment or entrepreneurial opportunities with ease, giving them the freedom to adapt and grow within Hong Kong’s dynamic economy.

For high-income earners and graduates from top universities, the scheme provides a unique chance to establish a career or business in one of Asia’s leading financial and innovation hubs. Applicants can bring along their spouse and dependent children under 18, enabling families to relocate together while enjoying the benefits of Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure and professional ecosystem.

By opening the door to international talent without the usual constraints of employer sponsorship, TTPS not only strengthens Hong Kong’s workforce but also enhances the city’s global competitiveness, making it a strategic destination for ambitious professionals and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) is open to nationals from most countries, with certain exclusions. Applicants from Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Nepal, and Vietnam are not eligible. Eligible candidates may apply under one of the following categories:

Category A – High-Income Professionals

• Individuals with annual taxable employment or business income of HK$2.5 million or above in the 12 months immediately preceding the application.

Category B – Experienced Top Graduates

• Graduates from the world’s top 100 universities with at least three years of work experience in the past five years.

Category C – Recent Top Graduates

• Graduates from the world’s top 100 universities with less than three years of work experience in the past five years.
• Category C applications are capped at 10,000 per year on a first-come, first-served basis, and demand often exceeds quota early in the year.
• This category does not apply to non-local students who obtained their undergraduate degree in a full-time, locally accredited program in Hong Kong. This exclusion ensures the scheme remains focused on attracting overseas talent rather than graduates already covered by other visa routes (e.g., IANG).

Additional Requirements

• Applicants must have no criminal record and no security objections.
• Those admitted under TTPS may sponsor their spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18, allowing their family to live, study, and work in Hong Kong.

Application Process

The application process for the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) is designed to be straightforward, allowing eligible individuals to apply for a two-year visa to live and work in Hong Kong. The process can be divided into four key steps:

Step 1 – Initial Consultation and Eligibility Check

• Begin with an eligibility assessment to confirm which TTPS category you qualify for before preparing your application under Categories A, B, or C.
• Receive guidance on the best application strategy based on your income, academic qualifications, and work experience.

Step 2 – Document Preparation

Prepare all documents in English or Chinese; if issued in other languages, certified translations are required under Hong Kong Immigration standards.

Step 3 – Online Submission to Hong Kong Immigration Department

Submit the completed application online via the Immigration Department’s portal. The department typically requires all supporting documents to start processing, so completing all your required steps is crucial for timely approval.

Step 4 – Follow-Up and Visa Approval

Immigration may request additional information or clarification. If applying through an authorised representative, they can communicate with Immigration on your behalf to ensure a smooth process. Once approved, applicants are granted a 24-month visa, free to work, change employment, or start a business in Hong Kong. After approval, the visa label is collected and delivered to you, completing the application process.

With professional guidance, applicants can navigate the TTPS process efficiently, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance with Hong Kong’s immigration requirements.

Required Documents

To apply for the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS), applicants must prepare a complete set of supporting documents. These documents provide proof of identity, qualifications, and eligibility, and ensure a smooth application process. The required documents are as follows. 

1. Completed Application Forms
   • All forms specified by the Hong Kong Immigration Department must be accurately filled out and signed.
     
2. Passport and Hong Kong Identity Card (if applicable)
   • Personal particulars page of your passport.
   • If currently in Hong Kong, include the page showing your latest arrival stamp or extension of stay.
   • A copy of your Hong Kong Identity Card, if available.
     
3. Proof of Income, Academic Qualifications, and Work Experience
   • Category A applicants: Taxable annual employment or business income of HK$2.5 million or above in the preceding 12 months.
   • Category B and C applicants: Degrees from a top 100 global university, with supporting evidence of work experience where required.
   • Employment references, pay slips, or business registration documents may be requested.
     
4. Proof of Overseas Residence
   • Documentation showing residence outside Hong Kong, such as utility bills, tenancy agreements, or official correspondence.
     
5. Translation Requirements
   • All documents must be in English or Chinese.
   • Documents in other languages must be certified translations into English or Chinese.

The Hong Kong Immigration Department may request additional documents during processing. Applicants are advised to ensure completeness and accuracy to avoid delays. Immigration authorities reserve the right to request further supporting evidence if necessary.

Processing Time And Limit of Stay

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) offers a streamlined process for highly skilled individuals to live and work in Hong Kong. Understanding the expected timeline and permitted stay is essential for planning your relocation or career move.

Processing Time

Processing usually takes about four weeks after submission of all required documents. Incomplete applications or document clarification requests may extend this timeline. It is important to ensure your application is complete as the Immigration Department will not begin processing until all documents and forms are received. The approval process is discretionary, and additional documents may be requested if necessary.

Initial Limit of Stay

• Successful applicants are granted an initial stay of 24 months under the TTPS.
• During this period, visa holders enjoy full flexibility to:
  • Take up employment in Hong Kong without prior sponsorship.
  • Change employers freely.
  • Establish, join, or operate a business in Hong Kong.

Extension of Stay Under TTPS

The Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) provides flexibility for talented professionals to continue their career or business in Hong Kong beyond the initial 24-month period.

Conditions for Extension

To extend the TTPS visa, applicants must prove ongoing employment or active business operation in Hong Kong, supported by valid contracts or business registration documents. For those who have established or joined a business, proof of active business operations is required. Extensions are considered only when all standard immigration requirements continue to be met.

Extension Duration

Successful applicants can be granted an extension of stay for up to three years. This allows professionals to further develop their careers, expand businesses, or explore new opportunities without the need to leave Hong Kong.

Dependent Visas

Dependents, including a spouse and unmarried children under 18, may also apply for visa extensions alongside the principal applicant. Dependent visa holders can continue to live, study, and work in Hong Kong under the terms of the TTPS extension.

Read: Getting Dependant Visa In Hong Kong

Statistics & Popularity

Since its launch, the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) has quickly become one of the most sought-after visa pathways for global talent. By December 2023, TTPS approvals reached 50,612, and by February 2024, the total climbed to about 59,000 — an increase of roughly 8,500 in two months. Categories B and C (graduates from top 100 universities) accounted for nearly 40,000 approvals.

High Demand for Categories B & C

The strong uptake of Category B (experienced graduates) and Category C (recent graduates) highlights the significant interest among highly educated professionals seeking flexible opportunities in Hong Kong. The rapid growth in applications also signals potential tightening of policies, particularly for Category C which is subject to an annual quota.

This data shows that TTPS is a highly competitive scheme and a preferred choice for international talent. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and apply early to maximize their chances of approval.

Key Benefits of the Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) offers several compelling benefits for global professionals and their families, making it an attractive pathway to live and work in one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.

1. Flexibility in Work and Business

Successful applicants are free to take up employment, change jobs, or start their own business in Hong Kong without prior employer sponsorship. This flexibility encourages talents to explore diverse career opportunities and business ventures while residing in Hong Kong.

2. Family Inclusion

TTPS allows applicants to sponsor their spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18, enabling the whole family to live, study, and work in Hong Kong. This family-friendly feature ensures a smooth relocation experience for international talent.

3. Fast Processing Application

Applications are processed efficiently — typically within four weeks once documentation is complete and verified. Applicants can submit their applications online, simplifying the procedure and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

4. Access to Hong Kong’s Dynamic Economy and Opportunities

Hong Kong is a global financial hub with a thriving business environment, strategic location, and competitive tax system. TTPS provides a gateway to Hong Kong’s dynamic business ecosystem, fostering access to cross-border opportunities, investment networks, and a world-class professional environment.

Conclusion

The Hong Kong Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) offers an exceptional pathway for high-income professionals and top graduates to work, invest, and grow in Hong Kong. By offering a flexible two-year visa without the need for prior employment or a business plan, TTPS empowers international talent to pursue career growth, entrepreneurial ventures, and meaningful contributions to Hong Kong’s dynamic economy. With the ability to include spouses and dependent children, fast processing times, and freedom to work or start a business, TTPS provides a unique pathway for global talent to settle and thrive in Hong Kong.

How FastLane Group Can Help

Navigating the TTPS process can be intricate, but FastLane Group provides comprehensive, end-to-end assistance to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely approval at every stage.

Here’s how we assist applicants:

• Free Preliminary Advice & Eligibility Assessment: Our team evaluates your profile, academic qualifications, and work experience to determine your eligibility for TTPS and suggest the best category to apply under.
  
• Document Checklist Preparation & Alternatives: We provide a comprehensive checklist of required documents and suggest alternative proofs if you face challenges in providing specific paperwork.
  
• Application Form Completion & Submission: We complete and review all immigration forms on your behalf, ensuring consistency and compliance with Hong Kong Immigration Department requirements.
  
• Communication with the Immigration Department: We handle all inquiries and correspondence on your behalf, including direct communication with case officers in urgent or complex situations, ensuring timely responses and minimizing delays.
  
• Visa Delivery & Post-Approval Support: Once approved, we facilitate secure delivery of your TTPS visa. Even after approval, our team remains available to assist with extensions, renewals, or any questions about settling and working in Hong Kong.

Connect with FastLane Group today for professional TTPS application support — from eligibility assessment to visa delivery.

FAQ – Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

1. Can I apply without a job offer?
Yes. One of the key advantages of TTPS is that applicants are not required to secure employment in Hong Kong before applying. You can apply for a two-year visa to explore work or business opportunities freely.

2. Who is eligible for Category C?
Category C is for graduates from the world’s top 100 universities who completed their degree in the past five years with less than three years of work experience. Please note that Category C has an annual quota of 10,000 applications and does not apply to non-local students who obtained their degree in a full-time, locally-accredited program in Hong Kong.

3. Can I bring my family under TTPS?
Yes. Applicants may sponsor their spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18 years old to join them in Hong Kong. Dependent visa holders can live, study, and work in Hong Kong during the visa period.

4. How long does processing take?
The standard processing time for a TTPS application is approximately four weeks, provided all required documents and information are submitted correctly.5. Can I extend my stay?
Yes. Extensions are possible, but applicants must secure employment in Hong Kong or provide proof of establishing/joining a business. Successful extensions are typically granted for three years.