Hong Kong Investment Visa 2025: New Rules and Requirements Announced

Hong Kong has introduced significant updates to its Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES), aiming to make the program more accessible for global investors. These changes, announced by Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) on January 7, are set to take effect on March 1, 2025.

Flexible Asset Verification and Joint Ownership

Under the updated guidelines, applicants can now qualify for the Hong Kong Investment visa using jointly held assets, such as properties, bank accounts, and business assets, provided they have been held for a minimum of six months. This is a big move from the previous policy, which required sole ownership of HKD 30 million in assets for two consecutive years.

Expanded Investment Options

The program has now incorporated family office investments and applicants can invest up to HKD 27 million. Additionally, private Hong Kong companies can qualify as investment vehicles if they meet specific criteria, including employing two full-time Hong Kong employees and incurring HKD 2 million in annual local operating costs.

Residential Properties and Fund Management

These updates build on an earlier amendment made in October 2024, which allowed residential properties to be included as qualifying investments for high-net-worth individuals. The government has also appointed four fund managers to oversee a total of HKD 600 million in program investments and make sure the management and growth of funds is effective.

Eligibility for Family Members

The new rules have also clarified eligibility for family members. Qualifying dependents now include the principal applicant’s spouse, children, and parents, as outlined in Schedule 16E, Section 4 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance. The program will accept asset proof dating back to September 2024, adding flexibility for applicants.