Blockchain

Hong Kong strives to make immigration easier for blockchain and FinTech experts

Hong Kong has unveiled new immigration rules for job seekers from around the world who have knowledge and expertise in the field of blockchain technology.

The new immigration policy included the unveiling of the local government’s first ‘Talent List’ to attract quality people who specialise in 11 different professions determined to be critical for the country’s economic growth.

“Hong Kong welcomes talents from all over the world with valuable skills, knowledge and experience to work here, bringing their talent into full play and further developing their careers,” says Hong Kong’s Human Resources Planning Commission Chairman Matthew Cheung Kin-chung.

Hong Kong is also seeking other experts

Hong Kong is also seeking experts in the field of artificial intelligence, data engineering, robotics, biometric and industrial/chemical engineering, among others.

The government is attempting to bring the experts to Hong Kong by facilitating immigration to those eligible candidates through its Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS).

MORE JOBS: Developers / Hyper Ledger Engineer

QMAS, established in 2006, has a quota for 1,000 qualified applicants to “enhance Hong Kong’s economic competitiveness”, according to the aim of the programme.

All those interested are required to meet specific requirements by taking the option to be evaluated under a “General Points Test” or an “Achievement-based Points Test”.

Special consideration for blockchain specialists

However, blockchain experts will be awarded bonus points under the General Points Test of the QMAS.

The candidates will also have to prove they have financial independence and an educational history such as a “first degree from a recognised university or a tertiary educational institution”.

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“Special considerations will be made for proven professional abilities or technical qualifications as exceptions to basic educational degrees,” the government adds.

“Successful applicants are not required to have secured an offer of local employment before their entry to Hong Kong for settlement,” it concludes.

Olivier Acuña

Olivier has been writing for over 30 years. He has been based in six countries working for major news outlets including the Guardian, UPI & AP. He has covered massive earthquakes, presidential elections, immigration, and taken photos standing in the middle of shootouts between drug cartels, gone undercover to investigate organised crime, interviewed presidents, former presidents, heads of international organisations.