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Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program

Residency in Hong Kong places investors at the center of a global financial and trade hub. Access to one of the world’s top financial and trading centers

Framework for Acquiring Hong Kong Residency Through Investment

Hong Kong, a global financial hub and leading gateway to mainland China, provides several residence pathways for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled individuals. While Hong Kong’s traditional Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) was suspended, the government continues to offer residence routes through updated talent and professional schemes, as well as renewed investment-based options designed to attract global capital and expertise. These programs grant successful applicants the right to live, work, and study in Hong Kong, while benefiting from its robust financial system and world-class infrastructure.

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Investment Requirement

A minimum qualifying investment of HKD 30 million is required under the program.

Core Advantage

Eligibility to apply for permanent residence after maintaining seven years of continuous residency.

Discover Hong Kong Residence by Investment

Hong Kong offers multiple pathways for global investors, professionals, and talented individuals seeking residence in one of Asia’s most dynamic financial and business hubs. Through government-backed schemes such as QMAS, TTPS, and the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, applicants can secure long-term residence while benefiting from Hong Kong’s global connectivity and stable economy.

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

This scheme targets highly skilled professionals and talented individuals who can contribute to Hong Kong’s economy.

  • Applicants are assessed under either the General Points Test (based on age, qualifications, work experience, and language) or the Achievement-Based Points Test (for globally recognized awards or contributions).
  • No job offer is required before applying.
  • Successful candidates receive residence rights for themselves and their dependents.

We make sure QMAS applicants prepare a strong profile that maximizes their scoring potential.

Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

This program is designed to attract high-income professionals and graduates of world-ranked universities.

  • Requires a bachelor’s degree from an eligible university.
  • Applicants must demonstrate income of at least HKD 2.5 million in the previous year.
  • Offers direct residence access without the need for a job offer.

We make sure TTPS applicants provide accurate financial proof and educational credentials.

General Employment Policy (GEP)

The GEP provides residence access through professional employment.

  • Requires a confirmed job offer in a relevant industry.
  • Applicants must have a degree or equivalent professional background.
  • Salary and benefits must match prevailing market standards in Hong Kong.

We make sure both employers and applicants submit compliant documentation to secure approval.

Investment as Entrepreneurs

This route allows individuals to enter Hong Kong by establishing or joining a business.

  • Applicants must demonstrate the business will contribute to the local economy.
  • Factors considered: business plan, job creation, technology transfer, and financial stability.
  • Overseas Chinese nationals may qualify if they hold permanent residence abroad or have lived overseas for at least one year.

We make sure entrepreneurs prepare robust business plans and show measurable impact in their applications.

Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

Hong Kong’s direct investment-based pathway focuses on high-net-worth individuals.

  • Minimum investment of HKD 30 million in qualifying assets.
  • Applicants must show they held net assets of HKD 30 million for at least two years prior to application.
  • Investments must be maintained for at least seven years.

We make sure every application is handled with precision, ensuring a simple, secure, and transparent process.

Why Choose Hong Kong: Key Lifestyle and Business Benefits

Hong Kong is a unique combination of business opportunity and lifestyle advantages.

  • Global gateway to mainland China and international markets
  • Stable political and economic environment
  • High-quality international education and healthcare
  • Vibrant cultural diversity and safe living standards
  • Excellent air links and global business networks

We make sure applicants and their families gain maximum value from these benefits.

Key Advantages of Establishing Residence in Hong Kong

Securing residence provides multiple advantages:

  • No restrictions on capital inflows or outflows
  • Freest economy in the world with strong financial systems
  • Convertible currency linked to the U.S. dollar
  • Transparent and established legal framework under English common law
  • Access to world-class infrastructure and communications

Our experts ensure applicants take full advantage of Hong Kong’s strategic position.

Your Investment Options for Securing Hong Kong Residency

Hong Kong offers a range of structured pathways for investors, professionals, and global talent who want to establish residence in this international business hub. Each option is designed for a specific applicant profile, whether through academic achievement, business investment, or financial contribution.

We make sure applicants understand all available options and select the route that aligns with their goals.

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

Residence pathway for highly skilled and talented individuals. Applicants are assessed through a points-based system, with no job offer required in advance.

Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS)

For graduates of top universities and high-income professionals. Requires proof of a bachelor’s degree and a minimum income of HKD 2.5 million in the year before applying.

General Employment Policy (GEP)

Employment-based route for professionals with skills not readily available in Hong Kong. Requires a confirmed job offer, relevant qualifications, and market-level remuneration.

Investment as Entrepreneurs

Designed for applicants who establish or join a business in Hong Kong. Approval is based on business plans, economic contribution, job creation, and financial resources.

Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES)

Direct investment option requiring a minimum of HKD 30 million. Applicants must maintain their investment for at least seven years and prove they held equivalent net assets before applying.

We make sure every investment option is clearly explained, with tailored guidance provided at every stage of the application.

Fast-Track Residency with the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme

The QMAS is designed to attract highly skilled or talented individuals.

  • Two assessment options: General Points Test or Achievement-Based Points Test
  • Passing score required on the General Points Test (80/225)
  • Exceptional achievers may qualify directly under the Achievement-Based Points Test

We make sure candidates prepare effectively to meet the points-based criteria.

Unlock Opportunities with the Top Talent Pass Scheme

The TTPS targets globally recognized professionals with academic and financial strength.

  • Requires a bachelor’s degree from an eligible university
  • Proof of income of at least HKD 2.5 million in the year before application

We make sure applicants demonstrate eligibility with clear documentation and financial records.

Residency Access Through the General Employment Policy

The GEP is intended for skilled professionals entering Hong Kong for employment.

  • Requires a confirmed job offer in a relevant field
  • Applicant must have a strong academic or professional background
  • Remuneration package must meet Hong Kong’s market standards

We make sure applicants meet both employer and Immigration Department requirements.

Building Success: Hong Kong’s Entrepreneurial Investment Route

The Entrepreneur Investment route allows applicants to establish or join businesses.

  • Requires proof of strong education or business experience
  • Applicants must submit a business plan and demonstrate economic contribution
  • Considerations include job creation, financial strength, and innovation

We make sure business applicants prepare robust plans that meet local market expectations.

The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Explained

The CIES is Hong Kong’s direct investment residency option.

  • Minimum investment of HKD 30 million
  • Applicant must hold net assets of HKD 30 million for at least 2 years before applying
  • Investments must be maintained for 7 years

We make sure investors understand the financial requirements and maintain compliance throughout the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Hong Kong Residence by Investment

  1. Select the most suitable scheme based on profile and goals.
  2. Prepare documents and meet financial or talent requirements.
  3. Submit application to the Immigration Department.
  4. Complete due diligence and await discretionary approval.
  5. Secure initial 24-month residence permit.
  6. Apply for extensions, provided criteria continue to be met.

We make sure applicants move through each stage with confidence and full support.

Tax Advantages of Living in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s tax system is territorial and highly competitive.

  • Corporate profits tax capped at 16.5%
  • No tax on dividends or capital gains
  • No withholding tax on interest or dividends
  • Royalties taxed at 5.25% (16.5% if paid to related parties)
  • Offshore trading and consulting activities often tax-free

We make sure applicants understand the benefits of Hong Kong’s simple tax regime.

Why Choose Globalhenel

Our dedicated team provides end-to-end support for Hong Kong residence applications. From initial eligibility checks to long-term planning, we ensure a professional, reliable, and tailored service.

We make sure every client receives guidance that matches their personal and business objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program

Initial permits are granted for 24 months and may be extended if criteria are met.

Yes, most programs allow inclusion of spouse and dependent children.

No, but residence does not require giving up your existing citizenship.

Yes, with updated requirements of HKD 30 million in qualifying investments.

No, some schemes have flexible stay conditions, although presence helps with renewals.

Hong Kong offers multiple residence pathways for global investors, professionals, and talented individuals. Initially introduced in 2003, the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) opened the door for investment-based residence, and today it operates alongside talent-driven and employment-based programs such as QMAS, TTPS, and GEP. These initiatives aim to attract capital, skills, and innovation while giving applicants and their families the ability to live, work, and study in a leading international hub.

We make sure applicants choose the right pathway, ensuring a simple, secure, and transparent process.

Applicants can select from several structured routes:

  • Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS): Points-based program for highly skilled or talented individuals.
  • Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS): Designed for high-income professionals and graduates of world-ranked universities.
  • General Employment Policy (GEP): For skilled professionals entering Hong Kong with a confirmed job offer.
  • Investment as Entrepreneurs: For applicants establishing or joining a business, subject to contribution to the local economy.
  • Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES): Requires a minimum investment of HKD 30 million in qualifying assets.

We make sure clients understand the strengths of each option and align them with their objectives.

Hong Kong offers significant lifestyle and business benefits.

  • Strategic location as a gateway to mainland China and global markets
  • Stable economy supported by transparent common-law legal system
  • No restrictions on capital inflows or outflows
  • Low and territorial-based taxation system
  • High-quality education and healthcare facilities
  • Family inclusion under most schemes
  • Access to one of the world’s leading financial and trading hubs

Our experts ensure applicants maximize both lifestyle and business opportunities.

Thresholds vary depending on the chosen pathway:

  • QMAS, TTPS, and GEP do not require direct investment but depend on qualifications, income, or job offers.
  • Investment as Entrepreneurs requires proof of resources, job creation, and business viability.
  • CIES requires at least HKD 30 million in qualifying assets, held for seven years, with proof of equivalent net assets prior to application.

We make sure applicants meet these thresholds and document them properly for approval.

The processing time depends on the chosen scheme:

  • QMAS and TTPS: 6-9 months on average due to detailed eligibility checks.
  • GEP and Entrepreneur Route: 3-6 months once employer and business documentation is verified.
  • CIES: Typically 6-12 months, as significant financial documentation and due diligence are required.

We make sure applications are well-prepared to reduce delays and achieve smooth approval.

  • Residence is normally granted for an initial 24 months, renewable if conditions are met.
  • For employment or entrepreneur routes, the applicant must remain engaged in the job or business.
  • Under CIES, the qualifying investment must be maintained for at least seven years.
  • Dependents are allowed to reside as long as the main applicant continues to meet criteria.

We make sure clients remain compliant throughout their residency to protect their status.

Applicants generally need to provide:

  • Valid passport and recent photographs
  • Proof of financial resources or investment (for CIES and Entrepreneur routes)
  • Degree certificates, work history, or awards (for QMAS, TTPS, GEP)
  • Proof of employment contract, business registration, or investment contracts
  • Police clearance certificate from the country of residence
  • Health and travel insurance documentation
  • Family documents such as marriage or birth certificates if dependents are included

We make sure documentation is complete and correctly formatted to meet Immigration Department standards.

Hong Kong does not directly link these residence programs to permanent residence or citizenship, but long-term pathways are available.

  • After seven years of continuous residence, applicants may apply for permanent residence in Hong Kong.
  • Permanent residents can later apply for the Hong Kong passport if they meet nationality requirements under Chinese law.
  • Dual citizenship is generally not recognized by China, though specific exceptions may apply.

We make sure applicants understand their long-term residency and nationality options clearly.

  1. Select the most suitable scheme based on qualifications, goals, or financial capacity.
  2. Prepare documents and meet all eligibility requirements.
  3. Submit the application to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
  4. Complete due diligence and background checks.
  5. Receive initial approval and a residence permit valid for 24 months.
  6. Apply for extensions before expiry, provided eligibility criteria continue to be met.
  7. Maintain residence or investment as required to progress toward permanent status.

We make sure every step of the application is carefully managed for a secure and successful outcome.