Immigration lexicon

Hong Kong CIES Eligibility Assessment

Discover if you qualify for Hong Kong residency through the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES). This quick 8-question assessment evaluates your eligibility for the HK$30 million investment program.

2 Minutes
Quick Assessment
HK$30M
Investment Required
Free
Consultation

About the Hong Kong CIES Assessment Tool

Why Use This Tool?

Our Hong Kong CIES Assessment Tool helps you evaluate your eligibility for Hong Kong's Capital Investment Entrant Scheme. This intelligent system analyzes your financial capacity and personal circumstances to determine your suitability for Hong Kong residency through investment.

How It Works

The assessment evaluates 8 key criteria:

  • Citizenship Status: Your current nationality and residency status
  • Financial Capacity: Your net worth and available investment capital
  • Asset Ownership: How long you've owned your assets
  • Investment Readiness: Your ability to commit HK$30 million
  • Investment Preferences: Your preferred investment approach
  • Timeline Commitment: Your readiness for 7-year residency requirement
  • Professional Support: Your existing support network
  • Family Situation: Dependents you wish to include

Your Information is Confidential

All information you provide is kept strictly confidential and securely transmitted to our trusted Hong Kong immigration law partners. Your data is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent.

What Happens After Assessment?

Once you complete the assessment:

  • You receive instant eligibility results with personalized recommendations
  • Your information is securely sent to our vetted Hong Kong law firm partners
  • A qualified Hong Kong immigration attorney contacts you within 24-48 hours
  • You receive expert guidance on CIES requirements and process
  • No obligation - the consultation is entirely free and confidential

About Hong Kong CIES

The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme allows eligible investors to obtain Hong Kong residency by investing a minimum of HK$30 million. Key features include:

  • Minimum investment of HK$30 million (≈ USD $3.82 million)
  • 7-year continuous ordinary residence requirement
  • Path to permanent residency and eventual citizenship
  • Include spouse and unmarried children under 18
  • Access to Hong Kong's world-class business environment
  • No language or business experience requirements

Investment Requirements

The HK$30 million must be invested in permissible assets including stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, subordinated debt, fund units, or Hong Kong real estate worth HK$50 million or more. Assets must be maintained for the entire 7-year period.

Why Assess Your Eligibility Now?

Hong Kong immigration policies can change rapidly. Investment thresholds, eligible asset categories, and processing procedures are subject to government policy updates. Getting current, accurate information from qualified Hong Kong immigration professionals is essential for making informed decisions.

Need More Help?

If you have specific questions about Hong Kong CIES requirements not covered by this assessment tool, our partner attorneys are ready to help. The consultation is completely free and without obligation.

Hong Kong CIES FAQ

Complete answers to the most frequently asked questions about Hong Kong's Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

What is the Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)?
The Hong Kong Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) is a residency-by-investment program that allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain Hong Kong residency through a qualifying investment. The program provides a pathway to permanent residency and eventual Hong Kong citizenship for investors and their families.
Minimum Investment: HK$30 million (≈ USD $3.82 million)
Key Benefits: Hong Kong residency, access to world-class business environment, pathway to permanent residency after 7 years, and inclusion of spouse and children under 18.
Who is eligible for Hong Kong CIES?
CIES eligibility is based on citizenship and residency status:
✓ Eligible Applicants
• Foreign nationals
• Chinese nationals with foreign permanent residency
• Macao SAR residents
• Chinese nationals (Taiwan residents)
✗ Not Eligible
• Chinese mainland citizens (without foreign PR)
• Citizens of Afghanistan, Cuba, or DPRK
• Hong Kong permanent residents
Additional Requirements: Clean criminal record, proof of assets owned for at least 6 months, and ability to demonstrate financial capacity to make the required investment.
What is the minimum investment amount for Hong Kong CIES?
HK$30 million (approximately USD $3.82 million)

This investment must be maintained for the entire 7-year continuous ordinary residence period required for permanent residency eligibility.

Net Worth Requirement:
Applicants should have significantly more than HK$30M in total assets to demonstrate financial capacity beyond the investment amount.
Asset Ownership:
Assets must be legally owned for at least 6 months before application, with proper documentation of source of funds.
What investment types qualify for Hong Kong CIES?
Hong Kong CIES offers several qualifying investment categories:
Stocks & Securities
Listed stocks, bonds, and certificates of deposit traded on recognized exchanges
Investment Funds
Units in approved mutual funds, hedge funds, and private equity funds
Real Estate
Hong Kong residential properties worth HK$50 million or more
Debt Securities
Government bonds, corporate bonds, and subordinated debt instruments
Important: All investments must be made through qualified intermediaries licensed in Hong Kong and maintained for the entire 7-year period until permanent residency is obtained.
Can family members be included in a CIES application?
Yes, CIES applicants can include immediate family members in their application:

Eligible Family Members:

  • Spouse or civil partner (legally recognized)
  • Unmarried children under 18 years old
Family Benefits: All included family members receive the same residency status and benefits as the main applicant, including the right to live, work, study in Hong Kong, and eventual eligibility for permanent residency.

Note: Unlike some other programs, CIES does not typically include dependent parents or adult children in the application.

What are the residency requirements for CIES holders?
CIES holders must maintain "continuous ordinary residence" in Hong Kong:
7-Year Requirement:
Continuous ordinary residence for 7 years to qualify for permanent residency
Absence Limits:
• Maximum 36 months total absence in 7 years
• No single absence exceeding 18 months
Acceptable Absences: Business travel, education, family emergencies, and medical treatment are generally acceptable reasons for temporary absence, provided they don't exceed the limits and Hong Kong remains your primary residence.
How long does the CIES application process take?
The CIES application process timeline:
6-9 months
Total Processing Time
2-3 months
Document Preparation
3-6 months
Government Review
Process Steps: Asset documentation → Investment completion → Application submission → Due diligence checks → Immigration Department review → Approval and permit issuance

Working with experienced Hong Kong immigration professionals can help ensure a smooth and efficient process.

How long does it take to get permanent residency through CIES?
The path to permanent residency through CIES follows a clear timeline:
7 years
Continuous Ordinary Residence
3-6 months
PR Application Processing
1+ year later
Citizenship Eligibility
After Permanent Residency: You can apply for Hong Kong citizenship if you meet additional requirements including basic Cantonese or English proficiency and knowledge of Hong Kong's way of life.
What are the tax implications of Hong Kong CIES?
Hong Kong offers a favorable tax environment for CIES holders:
Territorial Tax System
Only Hong Kong-sourced income is taxed locally
No Capital Gains Tax
Investment gains and capital appreciation are generally not taxed
Low Income Tax Rates
Maximum personal tax rate of 17% on Hong Kong income
No Inheritance Tax
No estate or inheritance taxes in Hong Kong
Important Consideration: While Hong Kong's tax system is favorable, you should consider tax implications in your home country. Many countries have tax treaties with Hong Kong to avoid double taxation. Professional tax advice is recommended.
Can I sell my CIES investment before obtaining permanent residency?
General Rule: CIES investments must be maintained for the entire 7-year period until permanent residency is obtained. Selling or withdrawing the investment early may result in loss of residency status.
Limited Exceptions: In some circumstances, reinvestment in other qualifying assets may be permitted, but this requires prior approval from Hong Kong Immigration Department and must meet specific criteria.

It's crucial to understand the investment maintenance requirements before committing to the CIES program, as premature divestment can jeopardize your residency status.

Do I need to speak Chinese for Hong Kong CIES?
Language requirements vary by stage of the immigration process:
CIES Application & Residency:
No language requirements for initial residency permit or maintaining CIES status
Permanent Residency:
No language requirements for permanent residency application
Hong Kong Citizenship:
Basic proficiency in Cantonese or English required, plus knowledge of Hong Kong
Practical Advantage: Hong Kong is an international financial center where English is widely used in business, making it accessible for English-speaking applicants.
Can I work in Hong Kong with a CIES visa?
Yes, CIES holders have full employment rights in Hong Kong:
Employment Freedom
Work for any employer without restrictions
Business Ownership
Start and operate your own business in Hong Kong
Professional Practice
Practice professions (subject to local licensing requirements)
Investment Activities
Manage investments and engage in financial activities
No Work Permit Required: Unlike many other visa categories, CIES holders do not need to apply for separate work permits or employment visas.
What are the additional costs beyond the HK$30 million investment?
Additional costs for CIES applications typically include:
Government Fees:
Application fees: HK$2,000-HK$3,000
Permit fees: HK$160-HK$380
Legal & Professional Fees:
Immigration lawyers: HK$50,000-HK$150,000
Financial advisors: HK$30,000-HK$100,000
Documentation Costs:
Translation services: HK$5,000-HK$15,000
Notarization: HK$3,000-HK$10,000
Investment Management:
Setup and management fees vary by investment type and provider

Total additional costs typically range from HK$100,000-HK$300,000 (USD $12,800-$38,400) for a family application, depending on complexity and professional services required.

What are the main risks and challenges of CIES?
Potential risks and challenges to consider:
Investment Risk
Market volatility may affect investment value while maintaining residency requirements
Residency Obligations
Must maintain physical presence in Hong Kong for 7 years
Policy Changes
Immigration policies and investment requirements may change
High Financial Commitment
Significant capital requirement that must be maintained long-term
Mitigation Strategies: Work with experienced professionals, diversify investments within permitted categories, maintain strong ties to Hong Kong, and stay informed about policy developments.
What are the main benefits of Hong Kong CIES?
Hong Kong CIES offers numerous advantages for international investors:
World-Class Business Hub
Access to Asia's leading financial center and gateway to China
Favorable Tax System
Territorial taxation, no capital gains tax, low income tax rates
High Quality of Life
Excellent healthcare, education, infrastructure, and safety
Global Mobility
Visa-free travel to 170+ destinations with Hong Kong passport
Family Benefits
Include spouse and children, access to world-class education
Investment Opportunities
Access to diverse Asian markets and investment platforms
Long-term Value: Hong Kong residency provides a stable base for business operations, wealth management, and family security in one of the world's most dynamic regions.
How can I get professional help with my CIES application?
Professional assistance is highly recommended for CIES applications:
Immigration Lawyers:
Licensed Hong Kong immigration attorneys with CIES expertise
Financial Advisors:
Qualified investment professionals for portfolio setup
Tax Consultants:
Specialists in Hong Kong and international tax planning
What to Look For: Choose professionals with proven CIES experience, proper licensing, transparent fee structures, and strong client references. Avoid unlicensed agents or consultants who cannot provide legal advice.
Free Consultation: Many qualified professionals offer initial consultations to assess your eligibility and explain the process before you commit to their services.

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