🇭🇰 Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES)Key points on investment immigration/golden visas
The Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) will be reactivated on March 1, 2024, overseen by the Invest Hong Kong and the Immigration Department, with a minimum investment threshold of HKD 30 million, which must include HKD 3 million invested in a CIES investment portfolio managed by Hong Kong Investment Management Company. Applicants must also demonstrate a net worth of no less than HKD 30 million for two consecutive years. This is a neutral summary of publicly available information; please refer to the latest official announcements for accuracy.
| Type | Investment Residency (may sequentially apply for permanent residency) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Investment Threshold | HK$30 million (approximately US$3.8 million). |
| Primary investment methods. | HK$27 million invested in permitted financial assets/non-residential real estate + HK$3 million invested in the CIES investment portfolio. |
| Residency Requirements | Maintain investment and renew residency according to immigration regulations; permanent residency typically requires seven years of residence. |
| Pathways to citizenship. | Generally, after residing for seven years, one may apply for permanent resident status in Hong Kong (not applicable for non-Chinese nationality pathways). |
| Dependent relatives | Can include spouse and unmarried dependent children (as per regulations). |
| Processing Timeline | Depending on the review progress, including net asset and investment verification, this may take several months. |
| Recent Changes | Restarting in March 2024 with a new threshold of HK$30 million and additional designated investment portfolio requirements. |
Key considerations
- Real estate investment is limited to non-residential types, and there are regulations on the upper limit; it is essential to confirm whether the target is qualified.
- Applicants must demonstrate a continuous net worth of no less than HKD 30 million for the two years prior to application.
- The status of permanent resident typically requires a minimum of seven years of residence, which is distinct from the investment threshold that must be met separately.
General process
- Demonstrate net assets and prepare documentation for the source of funds to submit an application to the immigration office for principle approval.
- Complete a qualifying investment of HKD 30 million within the stipulated timeframe (including CIES investment portfolio).
- Submit investment proof to obtain formal approval and receive entry permission.
- Renewal and maintenance of investment are required to accumulate residency duration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the new CIES invest in residential real estate?
According to the 2024 public regulations, new CIES real estate investments are limited to non-residential types, with a specified upper limit on the amount counted. Residential real estate does not qualify as an eligible investment. Exact regulations are subject to announcements from the Investment Promotion Agency/Immigration Department.
How long after investment can I obtain Hong Kong permanent residency?
Investment thresholds and permanent resident status are different conditions. Generally, one must reside continuously in Hong Kong for seven years to apply for permanent resident status, maintaining investment and residency during that period. Actual requirements are subject to official regulations.
Official sources：InvestHK New Capital Investor Immigration Scheme · Data Date：2026-06。This page is a neutral compilation of publicly available information, for reference only, notImmigration/LawAdvice; programs are subject to the latest official announcements.