Hong Kong Investment Visa Hits US$2.5B in 9 Months: Here’s What’s Behind

Since its relaunch in March 2024, Hong Kong's Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) has received 670 applications and over HK$20 billion (US$2.57 billion) in investments, as reported by Financial Secretary Paul Chan at the PWMA Wealth Management Summit 2024.

Fluctuations in Hong Kong CIES Applications: 

• First 4 months: 339 applications (85 per month)
• July-September: 161 applications (54 per month)
• Following months through December: 170 applications (57 per month)

Despite an average of 74 monthly applications, the program is still tracking below the government's ambitious target of 4,000 annual participants and HK$120 billion in yearly investment inflows. Projections suggest the program may reach between 720 and 890 applications by the end of the year.

New Real Estate Investment Option Adds Appeal

In October, Chief Executive John Lee expanded the program to allow investments in properties valued at HK$50 million or more. This move has already sparked considerable interest, with early applicants from Vanuatu and Guinea-Bissau. The dynamic shows that the new addition has strong potential, particularly for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and secure solid returns from Hong Kong’s property market.