Hong Kong Updates Investment Rules for Wealthy Nomads

Hong Kong has expanded its New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES), introducing more flexibility for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency without traditional employment ties. The program requires a minimum investment of HK$30 million (roughly USD 3.85 million) in permissible assets. Recent updates allow applicants to count jointly owned family assets and private company holdings toward this threshold, making it easier for global families and those using family office structures to qualify.

The scheme offers a direct path to residency for foreign nationals, Macau and Taiwan residents, and Chinese nationals with foreign permanent residency. It is particularly relevant for digital nomads and remote founders who have the capital to bypass the usual work visa requirements. Successful applicants can bring dependents, including spouses and children under 18, and can eventually apply for permanent residency after maintaining their investments for seven years.

To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate net assets of at least HK$30 million that you have beneficially owned for at least six months prior to applying. The investment portfolio can include a mix of:

• Equities, bonds, and funds
• Non-residential real estate (capped at HK$15 million)
• Residential real estate (eligible for investments of HK$30 million or more, though only HK$10 million counts toward the scheme's limit)
• Private company holdings (under specific family office conditions)

The application process involves a two-step verification through InvestHK and the Immigration Department. You first obtain an "approval-in-principle" to enter the city as a visitor for three months to make your investments, followed by formal entry once the HK$30 million is committed. This streamlined approach has already attracted billions in capital as the city seeks to bolster its status as a premier wealth hub.

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