The Hong Kong SAR government has broadened its Immigration Facilitation Scheme for Visitors Participating in Short-term Activities (STV Scheme), introducing five new sectors and nearly 100 additional authorised organisations to further ease entry for overseas professionals.
The expanded scheme allows invited foreign visitors to take part in approved short-term work activities for up to 14 days without applying for an employment visa, provided they are invited by an authorised organisation.
With the latest update, the scheme now covers 17 sectors instead of 12. Newly added sectors include environment, occupational safety and health, maritime, think tanks, and activities hosted or supported by government departments. The number of authorised organisations eligible to issue invitations has also risen from around 400 to about 490, giving more institutions the ability to bring in global talent.
Under the scheme, these organisations can invite experts from abroad to participate in short-term events, conferences, research collaborations, discussions, or projects. Participants may receive payment during their stay, as long as the activities support Hong Kong’s economic or policy priorities and do not conflict with local employment opportunities.
Since its pilot launch in 2022 and full implementation in 2024, the STV Scheme has facilitated more than 38,000 international visitors attending major events such as the Asian Financial Forum and the Hong Kong Sevens. Officials say the expansion reinforces Hong Kong’s status as an international “super connector,” enhancing talent mobility, strengthening cross-border collaboration, and supporting strategically important industries.
The 17 sectors now covered include medical and healthcare, higher education, arts and culture, sports, heritage, creative industries, innovation and technology, the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, aviation, international and mega events, finance, development and construction, environment, occupational safety and health, maritime, think tanks, and other approved activities.
