138 World-Class Athletes Become New Hong Kong Residents via Talent Scheme
Bastillepost · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong's Immigration Department Director Kwok Chun-fung announced on a television programme that 138 world-class athletes have become new Hong Kong residents through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme since 2023. While the city's low-tax policy remains attractive, Kwok stressed that comprehensive factors including public safety, transportation networks, education quality, and the convenience of holding a Hong Kong SAR passport are the true drivers behind talent attraction. The cohort includes more than 10 snooker players, with legendary figures like Jimmy White already settled and Ronnie O'Sullivan reportedly preparing for relocation.
Key Points
- 138 international athletes, both active and retired, obtained Hong Kong residency through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme between 2023 and the first half of 2026
- More than 10 of these athletes are snooker players, including Jimmy White, who recently secured his Hong Kong identity card via the scheme
- A European female tennis player is scheduled to compete in Hong Kong in November and may become a future scheme participant
- Kwok Chun-fung noted that while Hong Kong's tax system is competitive, Middle Eastern nations offering zero-tax regimes still cannot match Hong Kong's comprehensive advantages
- Approximately 120,000 to 130,000 talents enter Hong Kong annually through various admission programmes, with about 60,000 Top Talent Pass Scheme visas nearing expiry and 53% applying for renewal
Why It Matters
Hong Kong's success in attracting elite athletes demonstrates the city's ability to compete globally for talent beyond financial incentives alone. The continued influx of world-class sports figures enhances Hong Kong's international profile and could boost local sports development while reinforcing Hong Kong's position as a premier destination for professionals seeking quality of life alongside career opportunities .
Hong Kong's success in attracting elite athletes demonstrates the city's ability to compete globally for talent beyond financial incentives alone. The continued influx of world-class sports figures enhances Hong Kong's international profile and could boost local sports development while reinforcing Hong Kong's position as a premier destination for professionals seeking quality of life alongside career opportunities .