On October 27, 2003, the Hong Kong SAR Government launched the "Capital Investment Entrant Scheme," which has now been in operation for over eleven years. At that time, the minimum investment threshold was HKD 6.5 million. In the initial years, only a few hundred applications were received, but the number has since risen steadily.
In October 2010, the SAR Government announced an increase in the investment threshold for the scheme from HKD 6.5 million to HKD 10 million and removed real estate from the eligible investment asset classes. That year, there was a rush to submit applications before the deadline, with the number of applications reaching over 6,700, a record high. However, this move only brought a brief buffer period in the following year, and in 2012, the 6,508 applications received marked the second-highest annual figure on record. According to data officially released by the SAR Government, out of every 10 applicants, nearly 9 are from mainland China.
Why is the Hong Kong "Capital Investment Entrant Scheme" so popular among mainland Chinese? Worldway immigration experts point out that, to date, the investment threshold for the scheme remains at HKD 10 million, invested in government-approved financial asset classes, with no requirement to audit the source of funds. With the appreciation of the RMB, this effectively means the investment threshold has been lowered in real terms. Furthermore, the application process is efficient, with approval typically granted in about 6 months. At the same time, applicants can retain their mainland household registration (hukou), which does not affect their business or life in the mainland.
According to statistics, as of September 30, 2013, the cumulative number of applications was 32,984, attracting HKD 156.3 billion in capital. As of September 30, 2014, the cumulative number of applications had reached as high as 40,392. Industry experts generally expect that before the Hong Kong government submits its 2015 Policy Address, there will be another rush to submit applications in the fourth quarter, and the number of applicants in 2014 is bound to hit a new high.
Worldway immigration experts remind applicants that the HKD 10 million threshold may soon become a thing of the past. Interested applicants should seize the opportunity and submit their applications as early as possible to avoid the impact of potential price increases.
Worldway is a pioneer in offering capital-protected and yield-guaranteed bond products launched by Hong Kong financial institutions. We are highly familiar with the Hong Kong legal system and possess a first-class Hong Kong customer service team steeped in Hong Kong's century-old white-collar culture, as well as a comprehensive customer service system. We provide seven years of free renewal services (including annual asset declaration), as well as supporting services such as investment consulting, settlement, property purchase, children's education, childbirth, and business and financial tax advice. No matter which city you are in, Worldway can provide you with seamless, personalized service. For more information on Hong Kong investment immigration, please call 400-138-2929.
