Hong Kong

Hong Kong Residency By Investment Program

Hong Kong reopened its residence by investment programme in 2024 under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES). The New CIES offers a route to residence for investors who make a qualifying investment in Hong Kong. Successful applicants are granted residency in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong also offers pathways to residency through employment and investment. Permanent Residency Visas can be applied for after 7 years of residency in Hong Kong and citizenship can be applied for after 10 years under the naturalisation law.

Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

This route is for individuals investing a minimum of HKD 30 million into Hong Kong assets, (approx. $3.9M USD). Of this amount, HKD 3 million must be invested into a government-managed investment portfolio. Investments can include equities and non-residential real estate – maximum of HKD 10 million.

General Employment Policy (GEP) Permit

Applicants must have a good educational background and/or relevant experience in addition to a confirmed letter of employment and a remuneration package commensurate with the market rate in Hong Kong.

Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP)

This scheme is for mainland Chinese residents possessing special skills, knowledge or experience of value to Hong Kong and not readily available in the market. Again, the applicant will need a confirmed letter of employment.

Investment as Entrepreneurs

This is aimed at those entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Passport

Hong Kong doesn’t offer a direct citizenship by investment programme. If it did, its passport would be highly attractive to investors. The Hong Kong passport offers visa-free travel to 181 destinations worldwide. In terms of mobility for investors, it offers visa-free access to approximately 57.4% of the world’s wealth – as measured by GDP. It ranks 48th overall in La Vida’s comprehensive Global Passport Ranking.

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Hong Kong Residency by Investment FAQ’s

Can I invest in property under the Hong Kong investment visa?

Yes. Under the CIES, applicants may allocate up to HKD 10 million of their total HKD 30 million investment into Hong Kong residential property.  However, property investment is optional and must comply with specific programme rules.

What is the Hong Kong residence by investment cost?

Applicants must invest a minimum of HKD 30 million under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES). This amount must include an allocation of HKD 3 million to a government-managed investment portfolio.

Can family members be included in a Hong Kong investment visa application?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 can be included under the main applicant’s Capital Investment Entrant Scheme application.

Does Hong Kong offer citizenship by investment?

No. Hong Kong does not offer citizenship by investment. Applicants may apply for permanent residence after seven years of continuous ordinary residence in Hong Kong. Naturalisation as a Chinese national is possible after obtaining permanent residence but is subject to additional eligibility requirements.