The Hong Kong launched Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) on March 1,2024, and already received more then 300 applications. The first scheme was previously launched in 2003 and has been suspended since 15 January 2015. The updated program invites applicants to invest a minimum of HK$30m (approximately USD $3,858,531) in permissible assets in Hong Kong on or after the launch date of the Scheme. Note that applicant must be absolutely beneficially entitled to the permissible investment assets.
According to open statistics, at the end of June 2024, out of 339 applications, 88 approvals had been issued. Which means that successful applicants will be issued a 180-day visit visa to make an investment.
Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme. How to invest? Here are the options
Permissible Investment Assets
Equities
Shares of companies that are listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (“SEHK”) and traded in Hong Kong Dollars (“HKD”) or Renminbi (“RMB”).
Debt securities
For example, debt securities listed on the SEHK and traded in HKD or RMB.
Certificates of deposits
Certificates of deposits denominated in HKD or RMB issued by authorized institutions as defined in the Banking Ordinance.
Subordinated debt
Subordinated debt denominated in HKD or RMB issued by authorized institutions in compliance with Schedules 4B and 4C of the Banking (Capital) Rules.
Eligible collective investment schemes
For example, SFC-authorized real estate investment trusts managed by corporations licensed by or institutions registered with the SFC for Type 9 regulated activity.
Ownership interest in limited partnership funds
Ownership interest in limited partnership funds (“LPFs”) registered under the Limited Partnership Fund Ordinance.
Who is the audience for CIES?
Hong Kong authorities believe that the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) program will attract successful businessmen and entrepreneurs from around the world. Interestingly, among the candidates the majority of investors are from Vanuatu. As a reminder, Vanuatu has a citizenship by investment program with a remote application procedure. Thus, it can be assumed that investors who received a Vanuatu passport decided to place their capital in Hong Kong and thereby obtain official resident status.
And that is quite understandable because Hong Kong is one of the globe’s most influential financial hubs.
Read about Hong Kong Investment Visa (TTPS)>>
This is the Hong Kong Investment Visa for outstanding talent. The “Top Talent Pass” (TTPS) program in Hong Kong designed to facilitate the employment of special candidates.
