QMAS vs TTPS — Which Hong Kong Talent Visa Fits You?
A side-by-side comparison of the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) and the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) — eligibility, processing time, stay conditions, and how to decide which route to take.
⚖️ This is an AI pre-assessment only and is not legal advice. The final decision rests with the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Side-by-side comparison
| Topic | QMAS | TTPS |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility model | Points-based General Points Test (age, education, language, experience, sector, income). | Category-based: high salary (HKD 2.5M+ in the past year) OR degree from a qualifying top-100 global university. |
| Minimum threshold | 80 points minimum; selection is competitive against the periodic quota. | No points — meet one category and pass background checks. |
| Job offer required? | No job offer required before approval. | No job offer required. |
| Processing time | Typically 6–9 months end-to-end (includes selection batch). | Usually 4 weeks for Category A/B once documents are complete. |
| Initial stay | 24 months on first approval, extendable. | 24 months for Category A/B, 12 months for Category C (recent grads). |
| Best for | Mid-career professionals with diverse strengths but no single qualifying factor. | Very high earners or graduates of named top-100 universities. |
Frequently asked questions
Should I apply for QMAS or TTPS?
If you earn HKD 2.5M+ a year or hold a degree from a top-100 global university, TTPS is usually faster and simpler. If neither applies, QMAS lets you combine age, experience, sector, and language strengths into a points score.
Can I apply for QMAS and TTPS at the same time?
You can prepare for both, but a single live application per applicant is the norm. Most candidates pick the route with the higher confidence of approval and the shorter timeline.
Does TTPS lead to permanent residency faster than QMAS?
Both schemes count toward the standard 7-year continuous ordinary residence requirement for the right of abode. Neither is a shortcut to permanent residency — they differ mainly in how you enter Hong Kong.
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