Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS)
The Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) is a program run by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) of Hong Kong. It's a fast-track way for overseas and Mainland China technology professionals to get work visas and live in Hong Kong specifically to do research and development (R&D) work.
Here's a summary of TechTAS:
Eligibility:
Applies to companies in Hong Kong working on specific technological advancements like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, etc. [all 13 areas].
Applies to overseas technology professionals with relevant degrees and experience.
Benefits:
Fast-tracked visa application process for qualified tech professionals.
Companies can get quotas to streamline hiring multiple overseas professionals.
Tech professionals can bring their spouses and dependants to Hong Kong.
More Information
Here's a deeper dive into the TechTAS program:
For Companies (Employing Organization):
Eligibility:
Be a tenant/incubatee/grantee of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) or Cyberport.
Be principally involved in R&D in one of the seven designated technology areas:
Biotechnology
Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity
Robotics
Data Analytics
Financial Technologies
Material Science
Benefits:
Apply for quotas to sponsor multiple tech professionals under TechTAS.
Streamlined visa application process with shorter processing times.
Helps address talent shortage in specific technological fields.
For Applicants (Tech Professionals):
Eligibility:
Be employed full-time by a TechTAS-eligible company in Hong Kong.
Hold a STEM degree (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) from a recognized university.
For a Bachelor's degree, require one year of experience in a relevant field.
Master's or Doctoral degree holders do not require work experience.
Be primarily involved in R&D work for the company.
Offered a salary competitive with similar positions in Hong Kong.
Benefits:
Fast-tracked work visa application process.
Opportunity to live and work in Hong Kong.
Potential path to permanent residency in Hong Kong after seven years of residence under TechTAS.
Additional Details:
The Immigration Department (ImmD) of Hong Kong makes the final decision on visa approvals.
Applicants need to provide documentation proving their qualifications, experience, and competitive salary offer.
There are separate application guides for companies that are tenants/incubatees of HKSTPC or Cyberport, and those that are not Innovation and Technology Commission - Technology Talent Admission Scheme.
Things to Consider:
This program is highly competitive, so having a strong academic background and relevant experience is crucial.
Here's even more information on TechTAS:
Local Talent Employment Requirement:
Companies benefiting from TechTAS have a local talent employment requirement.
For every three non-local professionals brought in under TechTAS, the company needs to hire one new local full-time employee and two local interns.
Quota System:
Companies apply for quotas from the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) which allows them to sponsor a specific number of non-local tech professionals.
Quotas are valid for 24 months.
Processing Timeline:
The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks for the quota application and another 4-6 weeks for the individual visa application.
Extension of Stay:
Tech professionals initially receive a stay of 36 months or the duration of their employment contract (whichever is shorter).
Extensions are possible, and those who meet specific criteria can be considered "top-tier entrants" after two years, potentially leading to permanent residency.
Additional Resources:
This program is administered by Hong Kong. If you're interested and considering Hong Kong, you can find more details on the ITC website: Innovation and Technology Commission - Technology Talent Admission Scheme
Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) - TechTAS Application Guides:
For Tenants/Incubatees of HKSTPC or Cyberport: Application Guide – TechTAS 01 [URL]
For Non-Tenants: Application Guide – TechTAS 02 [URL]
How Bestar can Help
Bestar can provide valuable assistance with the TechTAS application process for both companies and individual tech professionals. Here's how we can help:
For Companies:
Understanding Eligibility: Bestar can assess a company's eligibility for TechTAS based on its location, area of R&D, and track record.
Quota Applications: We can guide companies through the quota application process with the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC), ensuring all documentation is complete and adhering to deadlines.
Streamlining Applications: Bestar can help compile required documents, prepare application forms, and potentially expedite the application process.
Staying Updated: We can keep companies informed about the latest TechTAS program updates, eligibility requirements, and potential changes.
For Tech Professionals:
Visa Application Guidance: Bestar can advise tech professionals on the entire visa application process, ensuring they meet all eligibility requirements and have the necessary documentation.
Preparing Applications: We can assist with gathering documents, completing application forms, and potentially improving the overall application package to be more competitive.
Post-application Support: Bestar can provide guidance and answer questions throughout the application process, including liaising with relevant authorities if needed.
Understanding Eligibility: We can assess an individual's eligibility based on their qualifications, experience, and the specific job offer.
Bestar's expertise can significantly increase the chances of a smooth and successful application process for both companies and tech professionals.
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