Short answer: Hong Kong CIES applicants must show net assets of at least HKD 30 million held continuously for six months before applying, and invest a total of HKD 30 million in permissible assets, of which HKD 3 million must go into the CIES Investment Portfolio.
Permissible assets at a glance
| Asset type | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hong Kong listed shares, bonds, funds etc. | Main eligible classes |
| Commercial property | Counts up to about HKD 10 million; own home does not count |
| CIES Investment Portfolio | Mandatory HKD 3 million, managed by a designated entity |
| Family office / private company | From 2026, investments may be held via an eligible holding company |
Application points
- Net assets must have been maintained for the six months before applying.
- No education, language or employment requirement.
- Spouse and unmarried children under 18 can be included.
- Permanent residence after seven years of continuous ordinary residence.
Versus TTPS and QMAS
CIES suits high-net-worth applicants who prefer an investment route; TTPS and QMAS are assessed on income or achievement and need no large capital outlay.