Hong Kong’s Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

Kristina Coluccia
May 7, 2025
2 min read

Hong Kong has long been an attractive destination for global investors and entrepreneurs, thanks to its robust financial markets, international connectivity, and business-friendly policies. To further strengthen its position as a hub for capital and talent, the Hong Kong government has relaunched the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) in 2023, offering a pathway for investors to reside in the city while contributing to its economic development.

What Is the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)?

The CIES allows eligible investors to obtain residency in Hong Kong by making a significant financial investment in permissible asset classes. Unlike other visa types that require employment or business ownership, the CIES provides greater flexibility for high-net-worth individuals who wish to live in Hong Kong while managing global investments or businesses.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the scheme, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:

Age and Residency: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have no adverse immigration or criminal record.
Investment Threshold: A minimum of HKD 30 million must be invested in permissible asset classes.
Financial Standing: Proof of sufficient assets and a clean financial record is required to demonstrate the ability to sustain the investment.

Permissible Investments

The investment must be made in specified asset classes approved by the Hong Kong government. These include:

Equities listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Eligible debt securities, including bonds.
Units in approved investment funds.
Non-residential real estate (subject to specific conditions).
Other asset classes as defined by the program’s rules.

Investments in residential property are excluded from the scheme.

Application Process

Prepare Documentation Applicants must provide proof of identity, financial standing, and detailed investment plans.
Submit Application The application is filed with the Hong Kong Immigration Department, supported by documents from the chosen financial institution.
Investment Verification Once the application is approved in principle, the required investment must be completed and verified by a designated regulatory authority.
Grant of Residence Successful applicants are granted residency, typically in the form of an entry permit or extension of stay, which may be renewed subject to compliance.

Benefits of the CIES

Residency without employment requirement: Flexibility to live in Hong Kong while managing investments or overseas businesses.
Access to Hong Kong’s world-class financial markets.
Family inclusion: Spouses and dependent children may also be granted residency.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: After seven years of continuous ordinary residence, applicants may be eligible to apply for permanent residency (Right of Abode).

Key Considerations

Investments must be maintained for the duration of stay under the scheme.
Market risks apply; capital values may fluctuate.
Professional advice is essential to ensure compliance with the scheme’s regulations and to optimize the investment structure.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is one of China and Hong Kong’s most trusted business setup advisory firms.

Woodburn Accountants & Advisors is specialized in inbound investment to China and Hong Kong. We focus on eliminating the complexities of corporate services and compliance administration. We help clients with services ranging from trademark registration and company incorporation to the full outsourcing solution for accounting, tax, and human resource services. Our advisory services can be tailor-made based on the companies’ objectives, goals and needs which vary depending on the stage they are at on their journey.