Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals in Hong Kong in 2026
The Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) is the professional-employment framework for eligible Chinese residents of the Mainland. It is distinct from GEP even though the professional assessment logic overlaps.
Employer and role
The applicant normally needs a genuine Hong Kong vacancy and a confirmed employment offer relevant to the applicant's qualifications or expertise. The Immigration Department considers the value of the applicant's skills, knowledge or experience and whether remuneration is broadly at market level.
Newly established employers can be asked for a business plan and evidence showing how the hire supports genuine Hong Kong operations and economic development.
Streamlining
Local-recruitment proof can be streamlined where the post is on the Talent List or pays at least HK$2 million annually. This is not automatic approval.
ASMTP entrants remain on employment condition. A change of employer requires Immigration Department approval while that condition continues.
Practical safeguards
Immigration approval is discretionary. Immigration permission does not replace employer, company, tax, professional-licensing or other regulatory requirements.
Return to the Hong Kong immigration hub, methodology, and legal disclaimer.
Official and supporting sources
- Immigration Department — ASMTPgovernment · accessed 2026-09-29
- Professional employment guidebookgovernment · accessed 2026-09-29
- Enhancement measuresgovernment · accessed 2026-09-29