The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme is a points-based visa of HKSAR to attract talented professionals from different fields. It intends to enhancing Hong Kong’s global competitiveness.
What is the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme?
The QMAS is a visa scheme that allows settling in Hong Kong without necessarily getting a prior job offer for those who are skilled. It provides talented professionals with an avenue to contribute toward the economic development and innovation of Hong Kong.
Purpose and Benefits of QMAS Visa
The system helps Hong Kong attract more talent with good professional attainment. QMAS allows you to live in Hong Kong, apply for permanent visa and perhaps career development in a global city.
Eligibility Criteria of Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
Educational and Professional Requirements
The candidates applying for QMAS must have very high academic qualifications or exceptional talent in arts, sports, and sciences. Higher qualification or even international repute in any particular field would add immense value to their eligibility.
Points-Based System for Eligibility
QMAS follows a points-based system. It is based on candidate’s academic qualification, work experience, language proficiency, age and family background.
Age, Language Proficiency, Work Experience-essential Eligibility Factors
Age: The eligible candidates are between 18 and 50 years, with younger candidates getting higher scores
Proficiency in Language: The application has to be good at either English or Chinese in either Cantonese or Mandarin.
Work Experience: The relevant work experience enhances the chances of an applicant in meeting the required threshold of points in QMAS visa criteria
Family Background: At least one immediate family member is a Hong Kong permanent resident residing in Hong Kong or accompanying married spouse is educated to the equivalent level of a degree or above.
Points System of Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
Applicants are awarded points on Age, Qualifications, Work experience, Language proficiency, Family background.
Importance of attaining Minimum Points Pass Mark
Applicants have to reach a threshold for the consideration of their application for a visa under the QMAS scheme. The minimum passing mark is 80 points, but scoring higher increases the chances of getting the QMAS visa.
Points Calculation for Various Factors
Quality Migrant Admission Scheme Application Process
Submission of Pre-Assessment Form: First Online pre-assessment form to check the eligibility.
Documents: educational certificate, work experience proof, language proficiency proof, and comprehensive resume.
Application: Application to be made on QMAS application form with the supporting documents required for application to Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Interview and Verification: to be scheduled online appointment for individual contract verification.
Wait for Approval: Letter of Approval-in-Principle if approved, then to attend an interview in Hong Kong.
Document and Supporting Evidence List
- Passport copies
- Academic and professional attainment proof
- Language proficiency certificate
- Personal statement for your intentions in Hong Kong
Online Appointment Booking of Individual Contract Verification
Once your application is in the process, you will have to book an online appointment for verification of documents, which is an essential part of the procedure.
QMAS Visa Privileges
Hong Kong Employment and Residency Rights
The QMAS visa allows working and residing in Hong Kong with no need for a prior offer letter. This flexibility opens up the exciting job market in one of Asia’s leading financial centers.
Path to Permanent Residency
The QMAS visa provides a straightforward way to get PR after a continuous seven-year residence in Hong Kong.
Access to Quality Healthcare and Education
QMAS visa holders can get access to quality healthcare and education in Hong Kong, a factor which makes it very attractive for the lone professional or the family-building one.
Comparison with Other Hong Kong Visa Schemes
In contrast with the Employment Visa or the Investment Visa, QMAS allows exceptional advantage in not requiring you to have a job offer at the outset of the application. That makes it far more attractive to those who would prefer options regarding employers or industries.
Merits of Choosing QMAS over Other Immigration Routes
- No requirement for employer sponsorship.
- Higher career options to be explored.
- A smoother path towards permanent residency.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
The majority of applicants face either the problem of attaining the total points or failure to identify the proper documentation. Applications that are poorly presented, ambiguity in personal statements, etc. are also prevalent.
Successful Application of Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
- Highlight success in your field of profession.
- Supporting documents such as work references need to be clear and reliable
- Seek advice from professionals so that your application can be significant and meet the threshold for points
Conclusion: Synopsis of Quality Migrant Admission Scheme Process
QMAS Visa is indeed a very good opportunity for professionals to live and work in Hong Kong. Moreover, it provides a smooth application process and apparent benefits concerning employment rights and ways towards permanent residency.
If you are a talented professional seeking flexibility, career prospects, and potentially a pathway to permanent residency in Hong Kong, QMAS is definitely the visa to consider.
How FastLane HR Can Help
FastLane HR provides professional consultation on all types of visa applications, including the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS). From preparation of a quality application, our team will lead you through each step of this process with ease to maximize your probability of success.
The official website Hong Kong government, Inland Revenue Department (IRD) is the main source of this blog.