An IMGW News Report
Hong Kong has introduced revisions to its Capital Investment Entrant procedures, streamlining the path for foreign investors seeking permanent residency. The new framework reduces the requirement for demonstrating capital holdings from two years to just six months.
“The new iteration was announced in the 2023–24 budget and is now in effect, reinforcing Hong Kong’s appeal as a destination for global capital.”
The scheme, designed to attract high-net-worth individuals, mandates a minimum investment of HK$30 million (£3 million) in approved financial instruments, such as equities, exchange-traded funds, and bonds—though property investment remains off-limits. Applicants must provide evidence of holding assets equivalent to this sum in the two years preceding their application.
As of 1 March 2025, additional enhancements have been introduced. The minimum net asset requirement of HK$30 million must now be maintained for only six months before application, rather than the previous two years. Jointly owned assets with family members may now also be considered. Furthermore, investments may be structured through a private company, provided it is incorporated or registered in Hong Kong and wholly owned by the applicant, aligning the scheme with the city’s ambitions to establish itself as a global hub for family offices.
Successful applicants may bring dependants, including spouses and unmarried children under 18, who will initially be granted a two-year stay, renewable for further three-year periods. Permanent residency is available after seven years of continuous ordinary residence, subject to statutory requirements.
Before applying, investors must first obtain confirmation from the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Office that they meet the net asset requirement. Once verified, the office issues a certification document and informs the Director of Immigration, who then processes the visa and residency applications.
Originally launched in 2003, the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme was suspended in 2015. The new iteration was announced in the 2023–24 budget and is now in effect, reinforcing Hong Kong’s appeal as a destination for global capital.
