Government to introduce new visa for short‑term training

It also plans to broaden AI-related professions on its Talent List.

The government will introduce a new visa category allowing non-locals to participate in short-term training programmes in Hong Kong, as part of efforts to attract talent and promote talent exchange and training.

Chief Executive John Lee said in the 2026 Policy Address that the government will consider adding more artificial intelligence-related talent categories to the Talent List.

The current list covers 60 professions facing a shortage of local talent, including finance, healthcare, and innovation and technology.

The government will also ease the requirements for extension of stay under the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) for technology start-up talent.

Lee said incoming talent who establish start-up businesses in Hong Kong may face significant uncertainty when applying for an extension of stay due to lower income from unstable businesses during the initial stage of operation.

“Proprietors of technology start-ups supported by designated public sector organisations will be exempted from requirements such as providing proof of company income when applying for extension of stay under the TTPS, to facilitate their development in Hong Kong,” he said.

The government also plans to expand the Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Invited Persons by extending its coverage from current ASEAN Member States to countries and regions in Central Asia and the Middle East.

It will also allow all bureaux and departments to issue invitations under the scheme, promoting economic and trade interactions and exchanges.