Two layers of requirements
Hong Kong's Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) checks you in two layers: basic requirements everyone must pass, then a points assessment. Most mainland applicants use the General Points Test.
Basic requirements
- Aged 18 or above when applying
- Able to support yourself and dependants without public assistance
- Good character (no serious criminal record or adverse immigration record)
- Good spoken and written Chinese (Putonghua or Cantonese) or English
- A first degree from a recognised university (exceptions exist for outstanding technical skills)
The 12-item General Points Test
Under the current framework you are assessed against 12 criteria and should meet at least 6 (the official passing threshold). They cover age (50 or under), a master's or doctorate, a STEM degree, Chinese and English ability, English ability, 5+ years' experience, 3+ years at a multinational or listed company, 3+ years in a priority industry, 2+ years overseas, income of HK$1M+, owning a business with HK$5M+ profit, and owning a listed company. Use the free checklist on our homepage to tick yours.
What mainland applicants usually score on
- Age — 50 or under scores
- Degree — CHSI (学信网) verification makes your certificate easy to trust
- Work experience — back it with employer letters plus social-insurance records
- Income — personal income-tax records are the strongest proof
Common gaps
International work experience (secondments, overseas clients) and formal language proof are where mainland profiles most often fall short. Document cross-border projects carefully — they can count.
Next step
Tick the 12 criteria on the homepage, then run the full assessment for an estimated score.