Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)
Hong Kong's fast-track visa for high earners and top university graduates
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Eligibility Requirements
Step-by-Step Application Process
Determine Your TTPS Category
Identify which of the three categories you qualify under. Category A is based on high income (HKD 2.5M+/yr). Category B requires a degree from a globally top-100 university plus 3+ years of work experience. Category C is for recent top-100 graduates with less than 3 years of experience (quota-limited).
1 day- Check the ImmD website for the latest list of qualifying universities — it is updated annually
- Top 100 is based on the composite of QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and ARWU (Shanghai Ranking)
- Category A has no quota or university requirement — just income proof
- Category C is capped at 10,000 per year and fills up, so apply early in the cycle
Prepare Your Application Documents
Gather all required documents based on your category. Category A applicants need comprehensive income proof. Category B and C applicants need degree certificates and university ranking evidence. All categories need identity documents and a completed application form.
1-2 weeks- For Category A: tax returns, salary slips, employer letters, and bank statements proving HKD 2.5M+ income
- For Category B/C: original degree certificate, transcript, and proof your university was top-100 in the year of graduation or application
- Employment references should be on company letterhead with contact details
- Documents in English or Chinese are accepted; other languages need certified translations
Submit Application Online
Apply through the Immigration Department (ImmD) online portal. Complete the application form (ID(S) 1007), upload all supporting documents, and pay the application fee. You can also submit in person at the ImmD office.
1 day- The online portal is the fastest route — in-person submissions are possible but slower
- Application fee is HKD 230 (~$30 USD), payable online
- Save your application reference number for tracking
- You can apply from anywhere in the world — you do not need to be in Hong Kong
ImmD Review and Processing
The Immigration Department reviews your application and verifies your documents. They may contact you for clarification or additional evidence. Processing typically takes about 4 weeks for straightforward applications.
2-4 weeks- Category A applications are generally processed fastest due to clear income verification
- ImmD may verify your employment and income claims with your employer
- Check your email regularly for any queries from ImmD
- Complex cases may take longer — allow up to 6-8 weeks in peak periods
Receive Approval and Collect Visa
Upon approval, ImmD issues a visa label that must be affixed to your passport. If you applied from outside Hong Kong, the visa label is sent to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, or you can collect it at ImmD in Hong Kong.
1-2 weeks- The visa label is valid for 6 months — you must enter Hong Kong within this period
- If you are already in Hong Kong on a visitor visa, you can collect the label directly at ImmD
- Bring your passport and approval notification to collect the visa
- Once you enter HK with the visa label, your 2-year TTPS begins
Enter Hong Kong and Register
Enter Hong Kong using your TTPS visa. Apply for a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKIC) within 30 days of arrival at a Registration of Persons office. Set up local banking and begin your professional activities.
1-2 weeks- Book your HKIC registration appointment online before arrival — walk-ins have long waits
- The HKIC is essential for daily life, banking, and employment
- TTPS is not tied to a specific employer — you can work for any company or freelance
- After 7 years of continuous ordinary residence, you become eligible for Hong Kong permanent residency
- Open an HSBC or Hang Seng bank account with your HKIC and passport
Required Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| TTPS application fee | HKD 230 (~$30 USD) | Paid online or at ImmD counter |
| Hong Kong Identity Card | Free | First HKIC registration is free |
| Document certification | ~$50-150 total | Certified copies of degree and employment records |
| Dependant visa (if applicable) | HKD 230 per dependant | Spouse and unmarried children under 18 |
Timeline Overview
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which universities qualify as top 100?
Hong Kong ImmD uses a composite of three global rankings: QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU/Shanghai Ranking). Your university must have been ranked in the top 100 in any of these three rankings in either your graduation year or the year of your TTPS application.
Can I change jobs on the TTPS?
Yes. The TTPS is not tied to any specific employer. You can work for any company, switch jobs freely, start your own business, or freelance. This flexibility is one of the key advantages over standard employer-sponsored work visas.
What is Hong Kong's tax rate?
Hong Kong has a progressive salaries tax rate of 2% to 17%, but there is a standard rate cap of 15% on net total income. Most professionals pay an effective rate between 7-15%. There is no capital gains tax, no GST/VAT, and no tax on dividends or interest. Only Hong Kong-sourced income is taxed.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried dependent children under 18 can apply for dependant visas. Dependants can work in Hong Kong without restrictions. Each dependant application costs HKD 230.
What is the path to permanent residency?
After 7 years of continuous ordinary residence in Hong Kong (including time on TTPS and subsequent visa renewals), you become eligible for the Right of Abode, which is effectively permanent residency. This also grants a Hong Kong permanent identity card and the right to travel visa-free to 170+ countries.
How does the TTPS renewal work?
The initial TTPS is granted for 2 years. Renewal depends on demonstrating that you are settled in Hong Kong with employment, business activity, or other ties. Renewal is not automatic — you must show you are contributing to Hong Kong's economy. Typical renewal pattern is 2+3+3 years.