Talents from healthcare services and creative industries were invited to come to Hong Kong as the government expanded its Talent List from 13 professions to 51 in order to support Hong Kong's development.

The Talent List displays which professional talents Hong Kong needs most and are eligible for immigration facilitation under the General Employment Policy (GEP), the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP), and the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS).

The government renewed the list to reflect the latest professional and technical talent shortage spanning different fields.

The updated list includes 51 professions under nine industry segments, including business support; creative industries, arts and culture, and performing arts; development and construction; environmental technology services; financial services; healthcare services; innovation and technology; legal and dispute resolution services; and maritime services.

"The main thrust of our manpower policy is nurturing local talent, complemented by attracting outside talent," the government spokesperson said. "The expanded List helps us attract more high-quality talent supporting the high-quality economic and social development of Hong Kong."

The government drew up the first list with 11 professions in 2018. Upon a review in 2021, it was expanded to cover 13 occupations.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Tuesday that he hoped at least 35,000 talented individuals would come to Hong Kong annually over the next three years, and stay in the city for not less than 12 months.

Detailed specifications of individual professions and the guidance note for applying under the admission schemes have been uploaded to www.talentlist.gov.hk and the online platform of Hong Kong Talent Engage.

Talent list coverage increases to 51 professions to attract quality workers