Hong Kong Talent Visa Attracts Over 23,000 Mainland Professionals

Since February 2023, the Hong Kong Talent Visa has attracted over 23,000 mainland Chinese professionals. These visas allow stays of up to 30 days for activities related to technology, innovation, culture, and education. Peng Ling, head of the Immigration Administration’s exit-entry management authorities, shared this update, noting an increase from the 18,000 successful candidates reported in mid-April.

Expansion of Talent Exchanges

Peng emphasized that the Hong Kong Talent Visa offers sufficient time for professionals to engage in scientific research, academic discussions, and other activities in Hong Kong. This initiative fosters the free, convenient, and efficient flow of talent and technology between the mainland and Hong Kong. The multi-entry visa scheme allows mainland professionals in sectors like science, technology, innovation, culture, and education to apply for visas valid for one to five years. These visas permit stays of up to 30 days per visit in Hong Kong and Macau. This extension significantly improves upon the typical seven-day duration for other exit permits.

Additional Visa Reforms

Since early 2023, Beijing introduced several other flexible visa measures. These include extending the duration of business visits to Hong Kong from seven to 14 days. They also launched multi-entry “northbound” visas for foreign employees working in the city. Additionally, authorities rolled out a five-year multi-entry mainland travel permit for Hong Kong’s 270,000 permanent residents who hold foreign passports. Peng mentioned that since the new permit application for Hongkongers with foreign passports launched on July 10, officials received over 30,000 requests. She highlighted that these measures are part of a broader reform aimed at implementing the “one country, two systems” principle and addressing Hong Kong’s evolving needs.

Future Talent Needs

Lawmaker Wendy Hong Wen noted that approving over 23,000 Hong Kong Talent Visas within 18 months is reasonable. She suggested that Hong Kong authorities should conduct a survey to identify the specific types of talent needed for the city’s future development. This approach could lead to expanding the talent categories eligible for the scheme. For instance, it might include professionals like ship repair personnel, who are currently not classified as high-end talent under the existing criteria.