TechTAS provides a fast-track arrangement for eligible companies to admit overseas and Mainland technology talent to undertake research and development ("R&D") work for them. Companies that are engaged in R&D in the areas of advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital entertainment, financial technologies, green technology, integrated circuit design, Internet-of-Things, material science, microelectronics, quantum technology or robotics are eligible to make applications.
Key details
Grant type
"In-kind subsidy (equipment, training, etc.)"
Application submission type
Unspecified
Max programme duration
24 months
Expected processing time
0.5 months
Eligibility
Categories
Public and Societal BenefitInternational and Foreign Affairs
Target beneficiaries
Other
Other beneficiary
Companies that are engaged in R&D in the areas of advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital entertainment, financial technologies, green technology, integrated circuit design, Internet-of-Things, material science, microelectronics, quantum technology or robotics
Who may apply for employment visa / entry permit using the quota allotted under TechTAS?
The non-local technology talent admitted under TechTAS must be –
a. employed as full-time employees in Hong Kong by the applicant company;
b. engaged principally in conducting R&D in the areas of advanced communication technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital entertainment, financial technologies, green technology, integrated circuit design, Internet-of-Things, material science, microelectronics, quantum technology or robotics;
c. degree-holders in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) from a well-recognised university (this refers to the top 100 universities in the latest publications of STEM-related ranking tables of Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), Times Higher Education, Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Jiao Tong University) (also known as Shanghai Ranking)) and U.S. News and World Report’s Best Global Universities Rankings (USNWR). Work experience is not compulsory for those with a Master's or Doctoral degree, whereas those with a Bachelor's degree only should possess a minimum of one year of working experience in the relevant technology area; and
d. offered remuneration not lower than the prevailing market level for comparable jobs in Hong Kong.
Technology talent not meeting the academic requirements in (c) above but possess good technical skills in specialty areas, proven professional abilities and / or relevant experience and achievements supported by documentary evidence can be considered on a case-by-case basis with full justifications.
Can a non-local academic teaching staff be admitted to work in Hong Kong using TechTAS?
- The non-local technology talent admitted under TechTAS must be engaged principally in conducting R&D in the specified technology areas. Academic staff who mainly focus on teaching work do not fall into the scope..
