Core Requirements for Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) Visa Extension
When extending a TTPS visa, an applicant must meet one of the following basic conditions: having secured employment, or having established or joined in a business in Hong Kong. The assessing authority will consider the applicant’s remuneration and benefits, the economic benefits brought by the work, and the applicant’s substantial residence in Hong Kong.
Detailed Explanation of Employment Requirements
For applicants who choose employment, the job normally needs to be one that degree holders typically fill, and the remuneration and benefits must be at market level. Applicants must submit an employment contract stating details such as the position, salary, other benefits and the employment period. The employing company must provide its business registration certificate, documents proving the company’s financial condition, details of the company background, its business model and future development plans. For applicants on an internal transfer, although the work location may be arranged flexibly, they must still prove that their position is at management or professional level and that their remuneration is at market level.
Requirements for Establishing or Joining a Business
If an applicant chooses to establish or join a business in Hong Kong, they must prove that the business is genuinely operating in Hong Kong, can operate healthily and develop sustainably, and contributes to the Hong Kong economy. The assessment will consider the business’s operations and development, turnover, financial resources, the amount invested, the number of jobs created in Hong Kong, and the new technologies or skills introduced. A start-up that can provide a business plan proving that the business is operating healthily and developing sustainably, and makes a long-term contribution to the Hong Kong economy, may be considered even if it is temporarily loss-making or has no income.
Key Points on Proof of Residence
When extending the visa, the applicant needs to prove substantial residence in Hong Kong. Although the TTPS does not impose a hard requirement on the number of days spent residing in Hong Kong, the applicant must provide concrete evidence of life in Hong Kong, such as proof of children’s schooling, utility bills (water, electricity and gas) for a Hong Kong residence, credit card spending records, and Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) contribution records. These materials can effectively demonstrate the applicant’s close ties with Hong Kong.
Practical Strategies to Avoid Visa Lapse
To avoid a visa lapse, applicants should prepare the extension application in advance, normally submitting it within four weeks before the expiry of the permitted stay. Ensure all supporting documents are thorough and complete, especially materials reflecting work, residence and economic contribution in Hong Kong. If the requirements for employment or establishing a business cannot be met for the time being, the applicant may consider applying for an extension of stay, but must provide a reasonable explanation and future plans. Maintaining communication with the Immigration Department and responding promptly to requests for additional documents can also effectively improve the success rate of the visa extension.