›Hong Kong digital nomad visa requirements
The Top Talent Pass Scheme - Category A (High-Income Earners) requires applicants to demonstrate stable remote income and a genuine remote work arrangement. Unlike traditional work visas, there is no requirement to have a Hong Kong employer — you must work for foreign clients or employers.
- Income: $319,870.6/year — Includes salary, allowances, stock options, business profits. Remote work for overseas employers permitted with min HKD 1,200,000 annual income.
- Stay duration: 3 years, renewable — Extendable up to 3 years for stable HK employment or established business; 6-year extensions for HKD 2M+ salary tax income
- Health insurance: Not required — but strongly recommended for extended stays
- Background check: Police clearance or criminal record check from your home country (typically apostilled)
- Valid passport: 6+ months beyond intended stay
- Proof of accommodation: Rental agreement, hotel, or property documents
Eligibility note: High earners with annual income of HKD 2.5 million or above; no employment offer required at application
›How to apply for the Hong Kong digital nomad visa
- Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid passport, international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate from your home country.
- Authenticate documents. Check whether Hong Kong requires an apostille stamp on foreign-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for documents not in the local language or English.
- Submit your application. Apply through the official Hong Kong government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
- Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and ensure your health insurance is active from day one in Hong Kong. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival.
›Tax treatment for Hong Kong digital nomad visa holders
Territorial tax system; only HK-sourced income is taxable; foreign-sourced income generally exempt
Always consult a qualified tax professional before making long-term commitments. Tax laws change and bilateral tax treaties between your home country and Hong Kong may affect your obligations.
›Common mistakes to avoid
Applying without consistent income documentation
Depositing a lump sum the month before applying doesn't work. Immigration officials want to see 3–6 months of consistent income above the threshold. Sporadic payments or irregular freelance income may not qualify. Start documenting your earnings well before applying.
Confusing tourist visa status with digital nomad visa permission
Working — even remotely for a foreign company — is prohibited under tourist status in most countries. Digital nomad visas exist specifically to legalize what would otherwise be illegal work. Don't risk deportation or future entry bans by working on a tourist visa.
Underestimating document authentication time
Apostille stamps and certified translations can take 2–6 weeks depending on your home country's processes. Budget extra time before your intended start date and apply for authentication as soon as you decide to apply.
