Hong Kong's New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES): A Complete Guide for Global Investors (2026)

Executive Summary

Hong Kong has re-entered the investment migration market with the launch of the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES), creating a pathway for eligible high-net-worth individuals to obtain residency through qualifying investments.

Unlike traditional business immigration programmes, the New CIES focuses on attracting capital that supports Hong Kong's long-term development as an international financial and wealth management centre. For global investors seeking access to one of Asia's leading financial hubs, the programme offers an opportunity to establish residency while maintaining a diversified investment portfolio.

What Is the New CIES?

The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme was officially launched on 1 March 2024 by the Hong Kong SAR Government.

The scheme aims to attract high-net-worth individuals who are prepared to make substantial investments in Hong Kong while contributing to the city's financial ecosystem and long-term economic growth. Administration of the scheme is shared between the New CIES Office under Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

Unlike employment-based immigration programmes, applicants qualify through investment rather than securing a job offer or establishing employment in Hong Kong.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must satisfy several key requirements, including:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Belong to an eligible nationality or residency category.

• Demonstrate net assets of at least HK$30 million (or equivalent) maintained throughout the required assessment period.

• Invest a minimum of HK$30 million in permissible investment assets.

• Meet Hong Kong's immigration and security requirements.

• Demonstrate the ability to support themselves and their dependants without relying on employment or public assistance.

Eligibility should always be assessed against the latest government rules before proceeding.

How Must the Investment Be Structured?

Under the current framework, applicants are generally required to invest:

• At least HK$27 million in permissible investment assets such as eligible financial instruments and qualifying real estate (subject to applicable limits).

• HK$3 million into the designated New CIES Investment Portfolio, which supports innovation, technology, and other strategic industries in Hong Kong.

The investment must continue to comply with the programme's portfolio maintenance requirements throughout the relevant period.

Can You Bring Your Family?

Yes.

Successful applicants may generally sponsor eligible dependants, including:

• A legally recognised spouse or qualifying civil partner (where recognised under Hong Kong policy).

• Unmarried dependent children under the age of 18.

Eligible dependants may live in Hong Kong under the prevailing dependant policy, subject to approval by the Immigration Department.

Why Global Investors Are Paying Attention

Hong Kong continues to offer several advantages for internationally mobile investors:

• One of Asia's leading international financial centres.

• A simple and competitive tax system.

• Free flow of capital.

• International banking infrastructure.

• Strong legal framework based on common law.

• A strategic location connecting global markets with Mainland China.

These strengths continue to make Hong Kong an attractive destination for wealth preservation, succession planning, and international business expansion.

Skylink Intelligence Perspective

The New CIES should not be viewed simply as an investment programme.

For many families, it forms part of a broader international planning strategy that may include wealth management, tax planning, business expansion, education planning, and long-term residency objectives.

Before making any investment decisions, applicants should work with qualified professionals—including immigration advisers, Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), licensed financial advisers, and legal specialists—to ensure their investment structure aligns with both the programme requirements and their personal financial goals.

Final Thoughts

The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme marks Hong Kong's renewed commitment to attracting global capital and high-net-worth individuals.

Recent figures demonstrate strong market interest. As of 28 February 2026, Invest Hong Kong had received 3,166 applications, representing an expected investment of approximately HK$95 billion, highlighting continued international confidence in Hong Kong as a wealth management and investment destination.

For investors seeking residency in one of the world's leading financial centres, the New CIES offers an attractive opportunity. However, success depends on more than meeting the investment threshold—it requires careful planning, regulatory compliance, and a long-term strategy tailored to your family's objectives.

References

• Hong Kong Immigration Department – New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

• Invest Hong Kong – New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

• New CIES Office – Scheme Guidebook and Rules

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