Hong Kong Revises Permanent Residency Rules for Foreign Nationals

Hong Kong has announced changes to its Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES), making it easier for individuals to gain permanent residency. Following the latest updates, effective 1 March 2025, the country has reduced the required period for demonstrating capital holdings from two years to six months.

Hong Kong's Capital Investment Entrant Scheme allows wealthy individuals worldwide to permanently reside in the city and explore its diverse investment opportunities through wealth allocation and management. The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme allows foreign nationals to permanently reside in Hong Kong by making a minimum investment of HK$30 million (approximately Rs 1.12 Crore or US$128,586) in approved assets such as stocks, bonds, and ETFs. However, real estate investments are excluded from eligibility.

Previously, investors needed to prove that their capital was held in their accounts for at least two years. Now, they only need to show that they have had access to HK$30 million or equivalent in the six months leading up to the application. Also, the new rules allow foreign investors to include jointly-owned assets with family members in their net asset assessment.

Applicants who meet the requirements can bring dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 18, to Hong Kong. These dependents are granted a two-year stay, with the possibility of extending for three years at a time. After residing in Hong Kong for seven years, the investor and their dependents may apply for permanent residency.

To begin the process, investors must first confirm their eligibility with the New CIES Office, which will verify if the net asset requirements are met before applying to the Immigration Department. The scheme, which was first introduced in 2003 and suspended in 2015, was revived in Hong Kong's 2023-24 budget. This updated scheme offers an opportunity for foreign investors seeking to live in one of Asia's most dynamic financial hubs while benefiting from its wealth management and investment opportunities.