Investment requirement
A total investment of HKD 30 million:
- HKD 27 million in permissible investment assets, such as shares, bonds, funds and real estate
- HKD 3 million in the CIES Investment Portfolio
Net asset requirement
Net assets of at least HKD 30 million held continuously for the six months before applying (relaxed from two years in March 2025).
Real estate
Residential and non-residential real estate together count for up to HKD 10 million.
Private holding companies
Since March 2026, applicants can hold permissible investment assets through an eligible, wholly owned Hong Kong private holding company.
Who it suits
Families who want to come to Hong Kong through investment while planning their asset allocation.
CIES at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Total investment | HKD 30,000,000 |
| Permissible investment assets | HKD 27,000,000 |
| CIES Investment Portfolio | HKD 3,000,000 |
| Family | Spouse and unmarried children under 18 |
CIES application process and timing
- Asset assessment (2–4 weeks): We review your proof of net assets and investment plan.
- Net asset assessment (Several months): Submit the application and pass the net asset assessment.
- Make the investments (Within the required period): Complete the permissible investments as required.
- Residence (After approval): Receive your visa and extend when the conditions are met.
Main CIES requirements
- Aged 18 or over
- Net assets of at least HKD 30 million held continuously for the six months before applying
- HKD 27 million invested in permissible investment assets
- HKD 3 million invested in the CIES Investment Portfolio
- Investments maintained throughout your stay
Key benefits of CIES
- No education, language or employment requirements
- Bring your spouse and children to Hong Kong
- A wide range of permissible assets
- Apply for permanent residence after seven years
More questions about CIES
Can I invest in real estate? Yes. Residential property must be a single property meeting the required transaction price, and real estate (residential and non-residential combined) counts for up to HKD 10 million.
Can I hold the investments through a company? Yes. Since March 2026, applicants can hold permissible investment assets through an eligible Hong Kong private holding company that they wholly own.
Next step
Every family’s background, funds and timeline are different. Global Immigrate’s professional consultants can assess, free of charge, whether this programme suits you and compare other options. You can also request the full programme brochure on the programme page.
Learn more: Hong Kong New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)