Hong Kong Expands Its Short-term Visa-Free Scheme for Professionals
Hong Kong has further opened its doors to global talent by expanding its Short-term Activities Visa (STV) Scheme. The initiative, which lets invited foreign professionals visit the city for up to 14 days without applying for an employment visa, now covers 17 designated sectors — including newly added fields such as Environment and Maritime. Nearly 100 additional organisations have also been authorised to issue invitations.
This update makes it even easier for international experts to join conferences, industry events, and collaborative projects in Hong Kong.
What Is the STV Scheme?
The Short-term Activities Visa (STV) Scheme is a special immigration arrangement designed to support international knowledge exchange. Under this scheme:
Eligible professionals may enter Hong Kong visa-free for up to 14 days when invited by an authorised organisation.
No employment visa or entry permit is required, even if the visitor is paid for their participation.
The scheme supports activities such as conferences, business meetings, cultural exchanges, academic events, and sector-specific projects.
In essence, the STV Scheme streamlines short professional visits, making it easier for overseas experts to contribute to Hong Kong’s development without lengthy immigration procedures.
What’s New in the Expanded Scheme?
The Hong Kong SAR Government has now broadened the scheme in two key ways:
- More Sectors Covered
The scheme now includes 17 sectors (up from 12). Newly added categories include:
Environment
Occupational Safety and Health
Maritime
Think Tanks
“Others” – for events hosted or backed by government departments
- More Authorised Organisations
The list of organisations permitted to issue invitations has increased from around 400 to approximately 490. These bodies can invite overseas professionals to take part in approved short-term activities that support Hong Kong’s economic and policy goals.
How the Scheme Works
Invitations under the STV Scheme allow foreign professionals to:
Enter Hong Kong to participate in structured activities
Stay for up to 14 days per visit
Receive payment for their contributions
Skip the usual employment visa process
These visits are designed to support Hong Kong’s strategic development while ensuring they do not replace local jobs.
Activities may include high-level meetings, industry shows, cultural or creative programmes, and large-scale international events.
Why the STV Scheme Matters
First launched as a pilot in 2022 and rolled out fully in 2024, the STV Scheme has already proven successful. More than 38,000 professionals from around the world have taken part in major Hong Kong events through this scheme, such as:
Asian Financial Forum
Hong Kong Sevens
Performing Arts Expo
By broadening its scope, Hong Kong aims to further strengthen its role as a global connector for innovation, business, arts, and culture.
Full List of 17 Sectors Covered Under the STV Scheme
Medical and Healthcare
Higher Education
Arts and Culture
Sports
Heritage
Creative Industries
Innovation and Technology
The Hong Kong Laureate Forum
Aviation
International/Mega Events
Finance
Development and Construction
Environment
Occupational Safety and Health
Maritime
Think Tanks
Others (government-hosted or supported activities)
Final Thoughts
The expanded STV Scheme highlights Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering global engagement. By simplifying entry for short-term professional visits, the city continues to position itself as a dynamic, open, and internationally connected hub for business, culture, and innovation.
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