The rise of nascent technologies such as blockchain has spurted a rise in nations’ need for who possess profound knowledge in these spheres. Countries rely on unique ways to incentivise skilled individuals to immigrate for touting the human resource required to capitalise on the growth of cutting-edge technologies. In a similar attempt, Hong Kong is seeking to diversify and pull in specialised and professional talent from other nations by making changes to its immigration policy.
Hong Kong revealed on the 28th of August its ‘Talent list to attract quality people’ which specifies professions it requires to further its economic development.
Among the list of people mentioned in this criteria are professionals with ‘innovation and technology’ expertise within blockchain technology alongside fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), data engineering, robotics, and biometric specialisation. Professional candidates are being sought via Hong Kong’s Quality Migration Admission Scheme (QMAS).
Mr Matthew Cheung King-Chung, Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary for Administration and Chairman of Human Resources Planning Commision shared-
“Hong Kong welcomes talents from all over the world with valuable skills, knowledge and experience to work here, bringing their talent into full play and further developing their careers. The promulgation of the Talent List is one of our major initiatives to enhance our competitive advantages in attracting international talents, creating cluster effects, stimulating the development of local talents and propelling Hong Kong forward.”
QMAS, which was established back in 2006, seeks to attract eligible individuals above the age of eighteen under its existing annual quota of 1000 applicants. Individuals attempting to apply for migration are required to provide evidence of financial independence and an educational background that is ‘normally a first degree from a recognised university or a tertiary educational institution.’
Eligible individuals seeking to apply under QMAS can begin the process today as long as they comply with the relevant application arrangements. QMAS will also continue to invite professionals from expertise that aren’t explicitly covered under the talent list.
