Hong Kong Identity Application Policy Tightens Up! 2025-2026 Golden Window Period, Five Ways to Accurate Planning Guide
Published: 2026-01-26

In recent years, Hong Kong has vigorously launched a number of talent admission schemes to enrich the talent pool and promote economic development, with remarkable results. By 2025, more than 230,000 talents will have come to Hong Kong, bringing enormous economic and social benefits. However, withThe 2025 Policy Address With the release of the Hong Kong Identity Card, Hong Kong's identity policy has taken a key turn - from "admitting talents" to "promoting the development of Hong Kong's identity". "Selection, Retention and Deep Contribution" . There are clear signals of policy tightening, but for eligible applicants, now is the time to capitalize on the final dividend of the "Golden Window" The

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

A shift in the core of the policy: from "grab" to "stay", with the threshold raised across the board

In 2025, the focus of the Hong Kong Government's talent strategy has been clearly refocused on "Retaining Talent, Utilizing Talent" . This shift is reflected in three main dimensions:

  1. Significantly higher application thresholds::
    • meritocracy: Eliminate the old integrated scoring system and replace it with 12 assessment criteria, at least 6 need to be met Only those who are qualified can apply. New bonus points for qualified universities, STEM disciplines, and personal annual income of up to HK$1 million are added to accurately attract talents with high academic qualifications, high incomes and shortage of specialties.
    • High Achiever Program: Stricter scrutiny of Category A applicants (annual income of HK$2.5 million or more). If the declaration is based on the company's profits, it is required that the shares must be held for one year before application, completely eliminating temporary operations.
  2. Renewal Review Focuses on "Substantial Contribution"::
    • Renewal is no longer a formality, whether it is a meritocracy or a high-caliber talent."Stable employment or business in Hong Kong", "Substantial economic contribution to Hong Kong" Become a hard and fast indicator. The renewal of a merit-based visa requires the provision of "Two sites, two orders"(residential and office address in Hong Kong, salaries tax return, profits tax return); for renewal of high caliber applicants, it is necessary to prove that they have a close working relationship with Hong Kong.
  3. Top talent rewarded and screened in parallel::
    • For top talents who have made outstanding contributions to Hong Kong (e.g. HK$2 million in salaries tax income in the previous year), the following are offered "3+5", "3+6" of the ultra-long renewal model to accelerate their acquisition of permanent residence. This reflects the "Strict entry, lenient treatment" of elite screening ideas.

This means that future applications for Hong Kong status will place more emphasis on the applicant's genuine intention and ability to stay in Hong Kong for long-term development. The policy winds are tightening and the earlier you act, the greater the advantage.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

Five Mainstream Application Pathways for 2026 Explained

1. Hong Kong Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

  • Core features: The most flexible and widely accessible program that does not require prior employer hiring.
  • 2025 Update Changes:: Implementation 12 assessments, 6 need to be met The new threshold. Values education, international experience, areas of specialization (especially STEM) and high income.
  • Key to renewal: The mode is 3+3+2. The key is to prove "ordinarily resident" in Hong Kong and demonstrate their contribution to Hong Kong by working, starting a business or settling down to live in Hong Kong.

2. Hong Kong Talents Pass Scheme (HTS)

  • Core features: Extremely fast approvals for high income or prestigious graduates.
  • Type of application::
    • Category A: Income of HK$2.5 million or above in the year prior to application.
    • Category B: Bachelor's degree from a top 100 global university + 3+ years of cumulative work experience in the last 5 years.
    • Category C: Bachelor's Degree from one of the top 100 global universities (graduated in the last 5 years with less than 3 years of experience), limited places available.
  • Key to renewal: 3 years for the first time in category A, 2 years for the first time in category B/C, followed by 3+3 Mode.Must be employed or established in Hong Kong or have substantial business connection with Hong KongThe

3. Admission of Mainland Talents and Professionals Scheme/Hong Kong Professionals Scheme

  • Core features: The threshold is relatively clear, requiring full-time employment with a Hong Kong employer first.
  • Application Points: Applicants should possess professional skills and good academic qualifications that are not available in Hong Kong; employer companies should meet a certain size (e.g. annual turnover, number of local employees requirement).
  • Key to renewal: Bound to the employment relationship, the model is 3+3+2(b) The renewal of the visa is subject to the following conditions. You are required to continue to be employed by the same company during the renewal period or report the change to the Immigration Department in a timely manner.

4. Hong Kong Migration for Further Studies Scheme

  • Core features: Obtaining status by attending full-time undergraduate, master's or doctoral programs in Hong Kong is suitable for young people who are interested in upgrading their qualifications.
  • Application Points: Getting a place at the school is the first step. Some Chinese language programs are IELTS-free.
  • Key to renewal: Upon graduation, you can obtain an IANG visa to stay and work in Hong Kong in the following modes 3+3+3. Employment or business start-up in Hong Kong is required to complete subsequent renewals.

5. Hong Kong New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (investment migrants)

  • Core features: Designed for high net worth individuals to acquire status through investment.
  • 2025 Reboot Essentials: The investment threshold is HK$30 million(At least 3 million of which must be invested in designated financial products). Applicants must hold overseas permanent resident status (Mainland China residents can apply by obtaining permanent resident status in a third country).
  • Key to renewal: Subject to maintenance of investments, by 3+3+2 The model is renewed and you can eventually apply for permanent residence.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

Act Now: Seize the Policy Window to Realize Identity Planning

In the face of the increasingly tightened policy, 2025-2026 is undoubtedly the period for applying for Hong Kong status. Critical Sprint Period. Indecision may result in missing out on the current relatively liberal access conditions.

How do I start?

  1. Rapid self-assessment: Scan the QR code below to get a free assessment of which program you are eligible to apply for in just 20 seconds.
  2. Professional consulting planning: The details of Hong Kong identity application are complicated, especially the renewal requirements under the new policy. Seeking the help of a professional organization can provide you with a tailor-made solution to avoid potential risks and significantly increase your success rate.
  3. Prepare materials as early as possible: Whether it is academic accreditation, proof of income or a plan to go to Hong Kong, it takes time to prepare carefully. Early planning and early submission will give you a head start in the competition.

The golden window of Hong Kong status will not remain open forever. Before the new policy is fully tightened, proactive assessment and precise planning is a crucial step for you to step into the international arena and create a better future for your family. Take action now and get a head start on your identity and career!

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

Tags:
  • Hong Kong Identity Application
  • Advantages of Hong Kong Identity
  • Hong Kong Identity Planning