Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant, top-tier metropolis that seamlessly combines Eastern and Western traditions. Renowned for its business-friendly environment and exceptional infrastructure, it boasts an open economy with a free market and minimal taxation. As a crucial hub for global finance and trade, Hong Kong stands out on the international stage.
Residence by Investment Overview
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) provides various residency programs for skilled individuals looking to establish themselves in this vibrant Asian city. These programs are designed to attract top talent and contribute to the city's dynamic growth.
Investment
Minimum of HKD 30 million
Processing Time
One to nine months
Key Benefit
Eligible to apply for permanent residence after seven years
Hong Kong Residence by Investment
In September 2003, the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) introduced the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme. Before this scheme was established, those looking to gain residency through investment in the HKSAR had to use a specific type of employment visa called the Employment Visa Based on Investment in Hong Kong (the business investment visa).
Benefits of Hong Kong Residence by Investment
Economic and political stability, a strategic location, and a prominent financial and trading hub
Robust legal framework rooted in English common law with transparent regulations
Key entry point for trade and investment with mainland China
One of the freest economies globally
No limitations on capital movement into or out of Hong Kong
Convertible and stable currency, pegged to the US dollar
Leading global communications center with excellent infrastructure
World-class international airport and the busiest container port worldwide
Beneficial tax system for both individuals and businesses
Residence by investment options
Individuals seeking residency in Hong Kong have five available options:
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is designed to attract highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong and contribute to its economic growth.
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is designed to attract highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong and contribute to its economic growth.
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is designed to attract highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong and contribute to its economic growth.
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) is designed to attract highly skilled or talented individuals to settle in Hong Kong and contribute to its economic growth.
The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) is for individuals who invest a minimum of HKD 30 million in Hong Kong.
The Quality Migrant Admission Scheme
The General Points Test — Requires a minimum score of 80 out of 225 and evaluates five categories: age, academic or professional qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, and family background.
The Achievement-Based Points Test — Designed for applicants who have received exceptional awards (such as Olympic medals, Nobel Prizes, or national and international accolades) or who can demonstrate significant contributions to their field through peer recognition or notable achievements (e.g., lifetime achievement awards). Applicants meeting these criteria will receive 225 points; those who do not meet the criteria will not receive any points and their application will be rejected.
The Top Talent Pass Scheme
Applicants who meet the following criteria may apply for residence under the TTPS:
The applicant has a bachelor’s degree from an eligible university
The applicant has earned at least HKD 2.5 million in the year immediately preceding the date of application
The General Employment Policy
Applicants who possess special skills, knowledge, or experience of value not readily available in Hong Kong may apply to work under the GEP if the following criteria are met:
The applicant possesses a strong educational background, typically holding a first degree in a relevant field.
There is a legitimate job vacancy available.
The applicant has a confirmed job offer for a position that matches their academic qualifications or work experience and cannot be filled by local talent.
The overall compensation package, including salary, housing, medical, and other benefits, aligns with the current market rates for professionals in Hong Kong.
Investment as Entrepreneurs
Applicants who meet the below criteria may apply to enter or stay in the HKSAR as entrepreneurs under the GEP:
Applicants who meet the below criteria may apply to enter or stay in the HKSAR as entrepreneurs under the GEP:
The applicant should have a solid educational background, typically holding a first degree in a relevant field. They must establish or join a start-up business and significantly contribute to Hong Kong's economy. Key considerations include the business plan, turnover, financial resources, local job creation, and introduction of new technology or skills.
Overseas Chinese nationals with People’s Republic of China passports who meet the above criteria and the general immigration requirements may apply for the HKSAR Investment as Entrepreneurs visa if they have either permanent residence abroad or have lived overseas for at least one year immediately prior to applying. "Overseas" refers to regions outside mainland China, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and the Macao Special Administrative Region.
The Capital Investment Entrant Scheme
Applicants who fulfill the following requirements may apply for residence in Hong Kong under the CIES:
The applicant must invest at least HKD 30 million in Hong Kong.
The investment must be maintained for a minimum of seven years.
The applicant should have had net assets of at least HKD 30 million in the two years before applying.
Procedures and time frame
To obtain any of the aforementioned visas, applicants must submit all required forms and supporting documents. After receiving the complete application, the Immigration Department typically processes visa or entry permit requests within one to nine months.
Approval is at the discretion of the Immigration Department and may be influenced by changes in government policies. The director of immigration has the authority to deny any application, even if all eligibility criteria are satisfied. Successful applicants are generally granted a stay of 24 months, though this may not include additional conditions upon entry. Applicants can request an extension of their stay before their current limit expires, provided they continue to meet the eligibility requirements for investment, QMAS, TTPS, GEP, or CIES.
Tax in Hong Kong
Hong Kong operates on a territorial source principle for taxation. Companies in Hong Kong are taxed only on profits generated within the territory, with a current tax rate of 17.5% on assessable profits. There are no withholding taxes on dividends or interest, nor is there any capital gains tax. However, royalties paid to non-resident recipients incur a withholding tax of 5.25%, while royalties paid to related parties are taxed at 16.5%.
Hong Kong companies are particularly advantageous for international trading or consulting operations that do not have connections within Hong Kong, as these activities can be conducted tax-free. Similarly, companies owning real estate outside Hong Kong benefit from the absence of capital gains tax, and dividends received or distributed by Hong Kong companies are tax-exempt. The standard profits tax rate on Hong Kong-sourced income is also highly competitive at 16.5%.
Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program frequently asked questions
What is the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program?
Hong Kong residence by investment offers residence to individuals and their families through significant economic or talent contributions to the territory.
What are the investment options available for the Costa Rica Residence by Investment Program?
Investment options include five options: the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme for highly skilled individuals, the Top Talent Pass Scheme for those with rich work experience and good academic qualifications, the General Employment Policy for professional employment, the Investment as Entrepreneurs for business establishment, and the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme for those making substantial investments.
What are the benefits of obtaining Hong Kong residence through investment?
Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in Hong Kong, access to a favorable tax regime, and a strategic location in Asia.
What is the minimum investment required for the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program?
The minimum investment starts at HKD 30 million.
How long does it take to process an application for the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program?
The processing time is approximately one to nine months.
Can family members be included in the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program application?
Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse and dependent children in the application.
What are the residence requirements for the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program?
There are no residence requirements but if an applicant intends to apply for a permanent residence, then a minimum seven years of residence in Hong Kong (before or after establishment of HKSAR) is required.
What documents are required for the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program application?
Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain Hong Kong citizenship through the residence by investment program?
No, obtaining Hong Kong citizenship requires a separate and more stringent process.
What is the process for applying to the Hong Kong Residence by Investment Program?
Applicants must make a qualifying investment, submit the application with the necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process.
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