Hong Kong is opening new doors for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency through innovative investment pathways — and digital assets are now at the heart of this transformation. With the recent revival of the Capital Investor Entrant Scheme (CIES), purchasing Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs isn't just a financial decision; it could be your gateway to permanent residency in one of Asia’s most dynamic financial hubs.
This article explores how virtual assets, particularly Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs, have become eligible investments under Hong Kong’s updated immigration framework, and what that means for global investors looking to combine portfolio growth with long-term relocation benefits.
👉 Discover how digital asset investments can unlock residency opportunities in Hong Kong.
Virtual Assets Now Count Toward Financial Investment Requirements
In a strategic move to attract global capital and talent, Hong Kong relaunched its Capital Investor Entrant Scheme on March 1, 2025. Under the new rules, applicants must invest a minimum of HK$30 million** — with **HK$27 million allocated to approved financial assets and non-residential real estate, and an additional HK$3 million directed into a designated CIES investment portfolio.
What sets this iteration apart is a groundbreaking inclusion: virtual assets are now recognized as part of qualifying financial investments.
This means investors can meet a significant portion of their HK$27 million requirement by investing in regulated crypto-based financial products — including Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX).
For the first time, holding digital assets through compliant, exchange-traded funds isn't just about market exposure — it's also a potential pathway to citizenship.
How Many Bitcoin ETFs Do You Need? The Math Behind the Migration
To qualify under the CIES, investors must deploy at least HK$27 million into approved financial instruments. Given current market valuations:
- One Bitcoin ≈ US$57,500 (as of mid-2025)
- HK$27 million ≈ US$3.45 million
- Therefore, 60 Bitcoins ≈ HK$27 million
Similarly, for Ethereum:
- One Ether ≈ US$2,316
- The same HK$27 million threshold translates to approximately 1,144 ETH
But here's the key: you don’t need to hold Bitcoin or Ethereum directly. Instead, you can invest in spot ETFs that track the price of these assets and are fully compliant with Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) regulations.
By investing in six approved spot ETFs — such as those issued by HashKey,华夏 (CSOP), and Bosera — investors gain exposure to underlying crypto assets while remaining within regulatory boundaries. Combine this with the mandatory HK$3 million placement in the government-backed CIES portfolio, reside in Hong Kong continuously for seven years, and you become eligible for permanent residency.
This blend of traditional immigration policy and forward-thinking finance makes Hong Kong one of the most attractive jurisdictions for crypto-savvy investors worldwide.
👉 See how regulated crypto ETFs are reshaping investment migration strategies.
Approved Bitcoin & Ethereum Spot ETFs in Hong Kong
As of April 30, 2025, six major spot ETFs have been officially listed on the HKEX and included in the “Permitted Investment Assets” list:
✅ Bitcoin Spot ETFs
- Bosera HashKey Bitcoin ETF (03008.HK)
- CSOP Bitcoin ETF (03042.HK)
- Harvest Bitcoin Spot ETF (03439.HK)
✅ Ethereum Spot ETFs
- Bosera HashKey Ethereum ETF (03009.HK)
- CSOP Ethereum ETF (03046.HK)
- Harvest Ethereum Spot ETF (03179.HK)
These ETFs are managed by firms holding Hong Kong’s Type 9 asset management license, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards. They are structured as Open-Ended Fund Companies (OFCs), which are recognized legal entities under Hong Kong law.
Each fund holds 100% of its underlying assets in actual Bitcoin or Ethereum, custodied securely via regulated third parties. Investors benefit from:
- Full audit transparency
- Trust-based custody arrangements
- Commercial insurance coverage
- Real-time NAV and holdings disclosure
Crucially, these ETFs can be bought and sold through traditional brokerage accounts — no need to manage private keys or navigate decentralized platforms.
Why This Matters: Diversification Meets Residency
Digital assets offer unique advantages in modern portfolios:
- Low correlation with traditional markets: Bitcoin and Ethereum often move independently of stocks and bonds, offering diversification benefits.
- Hedge against inflation and macro uncertainty: With increasing global monetary expansion, hard-cap cryptocurrencies are viewed by institutions as digital gold alternatives.
- Long-term growth potential: As adoption grows across payments, DeFi, and institutional treasuries, demand for BTC and ETH continues to rise.
Now, with their inclusion in Hong Kong’s capital investment scheme, they also serve a dual purpose: wealth preservation + immigration eligibility.
High-net-worth individuals no longer have to choose between innovative asset classes and stable residency options. They can achieve both — legally, transparently, and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use any cryptocurrency to qualify for Hong Kong residency?
A: No. Only investments in approved financial products, such as regulated spot ETFs listed on the HKEX, count toward the HK$27 million requirement. Direct holdings of crypto in personal wallets do not qualify.
Q: Do I need to live in Hong Kong immediately after investing?
A: Yes. To maintain eligibility, you must establish residency upon approval and reside continuously for seven years. Temporary absences are allowed, but primary residence must remain in Hong Kong.
Q: Are there tax implications for holding these ETFs?
A: Hong Kong does not impose capital gains tax, making it highly favorable for investors. However, tax treatment may vary depending on your country of origin. Consult a cross-border tax advisor before proceeding.
Q: Is there a minimum holding period for the ETFs?
A: While there’s no fixed lock-up period, you must maintain the required investment level throughout the seven-year residency term. Significant withdrawals could affect your final eligibility for permanent status.
Q: Can family members also gain residency?
A: Yes. Spouses and dependent children under 18 can be included in the main applicant’s application and receive the same residency rights.
Q: What happens if the value of my ETFs drops below HK$27 million?
A: The requirement is based on the initial investment amount. As long as you initially met the threshold and maintained compliance with reporting requirements, market fluctuations generally won’t disqualify you — but maintaining asset levels is strongly advised.
👉 Learn how to start building a compliant crypto investment portfolio today.
Final Thoughts: A New Era of Investment Migration
Hong Kong’s integration of digital assets into its capital investor program marks a pivotal moment in financial innovation. By recognizing Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs as legitimate investment vehicles for immigration purposes, the city reinforces its position as Asia’s leading hub for fintech and blockchain advancement.
For forward-thinking investors, this isn’t just about gaining access to a new market — it’s about aligning personal wealth strategy with global mobility. Whether you're drawn by portfolio diversification, regulatory clarity, or long-term residency benefits, Hong Kong’s updated framework offers a compelling opportunity.
As more countries observe this model, we may see a broader shift toward recognizing digital assets in immigration and economic development policies worldwide.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making investment or immigration decisions.