Hong Kong on Tuesday released a list that features 11 types of migrants who will be prioritized to live in the metro despite not having a job lined up yet. The said list is meant to attract highly-qualified individuals to the city.
According to South China Morning Post, the list specifies different professions available in the city's pillar industries, particularly in financial and professional areas. This includes financial services, investment management, law, and technology, among others.
It also features specialists in areas of specializations such as naval architects, ship superintendents, and waste treatment. Interestingly, individuals in creative industries (e.g., game design, music, etc.) are also encouraged.
The Labour and Welfare Bureau said the list was proposed to draw talent who could support the Hong Kong's development as a "high value-added and diversified economy" and was less about providing manpower for industries where there are labor shortages.
"The talent list highlights specific professions needed most for Hong Kong's economic development," a bureau statement added.
The specific professions listed were drawn thanks to the influence courtesy of the government's long-term policies and initiatives. This already includes the international maritime industry and waste management, Yahoo! News reports.
Talented foreigners are instructed to apply to enter the city through its existing Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. The latter refers to a limit of 1,000 people who can be allowed into the city even if they have not secured employment yet.
Considered effective immediately, those individuals whose professions are on the list will receive bonus marks, allowing them to expedite their application process.
Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung Kin-chung said that the so-called "talent list" is among their major initiatives meant to improve the city's competitive advantages in attracting international talents. It would also help in creating cluster effects and stimulating the development of local talents in a bid to propel the metro forward.
