Hong Kong has expanded its Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) to accept Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as proof of wealth, reinforcing its position as a global crypto-friendly financial hub.
Under the new policy, high-net-worth individuals can now use cryptocurrency holdings to meet the HK$30 million ($3.8 million) financial requirement for the residency-by-investment program. Previously, only traditional assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate were accepted.
Strict compliance measures accompany the change, requiring digital assets to be stored in cold wallets or regulated exchanges and verified by certified accountants based on market prices at the time of application. Applicants must also provide transaction history and proof of ownership to prevent fraudulent submissions.
Hong Kong legislator Johnny Ng Kit-chong has called for faster adoption of cryptocurrency regulations, including stablecoin initiatives and a Digital Asset Office to oversee virtual asset expansion.
Despite recognizing BTC and ETH as verified wealth, Hong Kong does not allow direct cryptocurrency investment under the CIES. Approved applicants must invest their capital in government-sanctioned financial instruments such as stocks and bonds.
This latest move underscores Hong Kong’s strategic push to integrate digital assets within its financial ecosystem while maintaining strict regulatory oversight.
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