Short answer: CIES suits investors with HKD 30 million net assets; QMAS suits those with strong education or achievements and no need to invest. Both allow spouse and minor children, with PR after seven years.
The two compared
| CIES | QMAS | |
|---|---|---|
| Core requirement | Net assets HKD 30M + invest HKD 30M | Points-based |
| Processing | Depends on asset and investment review | About 6–9 months |
| Stay requirement | None | Extensions need ties to Hong Kong |
| Suits | High-net-worth, no employment needed | Strong education or achievements |
How to choose
- Substantial capital, simple investment preferred: CIES.
- Strong profile, limited budget: QMAS or TTPS.
Try the Programme Finder first.