Hong Kong has taken a groundbreaking step in aligning its immigration policies with the evolving digital economy by officially recognizing Bitcoin and Ethereum as acceptable assets for wealth verification under its Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES). This move positions the financial hub as a forward-thinking leader in cryptocurrency adoption, offering high-net-worth digital asset holders a new pathway to residency.
Under the updated guidelines effective in 2025, individuals applying for the investment visa must demonstrate a net worth of at least HK$30 million** (approximately **$3.8 million USD). For the first time, applicants can now include Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as part of their declared assets—marking a significant shift in how digital wealth is perceived in formal financial systems.
👉 Discover how digital assets are reshaping global residency programs.
How Crypto Qualifies for Wealth Verification
While cryptocurrency cannot be used as the actual investment vehicle after visa approval, it can be used to prove an applicant’s financial standing. This distinction is crucial: crypto holders may leverage their digital portfolios to meet the initial wealth threshold, but once approved, they must deploy the required capital into traditional, government-approved assets such as real estate, equities, or bonds—excluding crypto investments.
To validate digital asset holdings, applicants must submit a formal valuation report issued by a qualified chartered public accountant registered in Hong Kong. The report must include:
- Verified wallet addresses linked to the applicant
- Comprehensive transaction history
- Market valuation of Bitcoin and Ethereum holdings on a specific date
- A signed statement confirming authenticity and ownership
This rigorous verification process ensures transparency and guards against fraudulent claims, aligning with Hong Kong’s commitment to maintaining robust regulatory standards.
Chartered Accountants Step Into the Crypto Space
The inclusion of digital assets has prompted accounting professionals across Hong Kong to expand their expertise into blockchain analytics and crypto valuation. Many firms are now developing standardized frameworks to assess cryptocurrency portfolios, using on-chain analysis tools and real-time pricing data from reputable exchanges.
Accountants play a gatekeeping role—they must not only confirm the balance of funds but also trace the origin of assets to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. Their certification serves as official proof that an applicant’s crypto wealth is legitimate and meets the program’s stringent requirements.
This evolution reflects a broader trend: traditional financial gatekeepers are increasingly integrating blockchain literacy into their service offerings, signaling deeper institutional acceptance of digital assets.
👉 Learn how financial professionals are adapting to the rise of crypto wealth.
Strategic Implications for Global Crypto Holders
Hong Kong’s decision sends a powerful message to the global crypto community: digital wealth is gaining legitimacy. By accepting Bitcoin and Ethereum for visa applications, the Special Administrative Region distinguishes itself from most countries that still treat cryptocurrency as speculative or informal assets.
As of early 2025, over 750 applications have been submitted under the revamped CIES, indicating strong demand from international investors seeking residency in a crypto-friendly jurisdiction. The program appeals particularly to:
- Long-term crypto holders who have realized substantial gains
- Entrepreneurs in the blockchain and fintech sectors
- Digital nomads looking for stable, innovation-driven economies
Moreover, Hong Kong’s regulated environment—with licensed crypto exchanges and clear tax guidelines—adds an extra layer of trust for institutional and individual investors alike.
Why This Matters for the Future of Crypto Regulation
Hong Kong’s approach balances innovation with oversight. It acknowledges the economic power of digital assets without compromising financial stability. Unlike jurisdictions that ban or restrict crypto usage, Hong Kong is building infrastructure to integrate it responsibly into mainstream finance.
This policy shift may inspire other Asian economies—such as Singapore, Japan, or South Korea—to consider similar updates to their immigration or investment frameworks. It also reinforces Hong Kong’s ambition to become a leading digital asset hub in Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use any cryptocurrency for the investment visa?
A: No. Only Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) are currently accepted for wealth verification under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme.
Q: Do I need to sell my crypto to qualify?
A: Not during the application phase. You can use your holdings as proof of wealth, provided they are verified by a chartered accountant. However, after approval, you must invest the HK$30 million in non-crypto, government-approved assets.
Q: How is the value of my crypto determined?
A: The valuation is based on market prices on a specific date, confirmed through wallet data and transaction history. The final figure must be documented in a signed report by a licensed Hong Kong accountant.
Q: Is there a minimum holding period for Bitcoin or Ethereum?
A: Official guidelines do not specify a minimum holding duration, but applicants should be prepared to demonstrate clear ownership and fund provenance to avoid scrutiny.
Q: Can I live and work in Hong Kong with this visa?
A: Yes. The investment visa grants residency rights, allowing you to live, work, and conduct business in Hong Kong. After seven years of continuous residence, you may be eligible for permanent status.
Q: Are there restrictions on how I transfer my crypto wealth?
A: While there are no specific crypto transfer rules tied to the visa, all fund movements must comply with standard AML and know-your-customer (KYC) protocols enforced by financial institutions and exchanges.
👉 See how global investors are leveraging crypto for residency opportunities.
Final Thoughts: A New Era of Digital Wealth Recognition
Hong Kong’s acceptance of Bitcoin and Ethereum in its investment visa program marks a pivotal moment in the convergence of traditional finance and decentralized technology. It reflects growing confidence in blockchain-based assets and sets a precedent for how governments might treat digital wealth in immigration, taxation, and financial planning contexts.
For crypto-native individuals who have built substantial portfolios, this policy opens doors—literally—to new lifestyles, business opportunities, and long-term residency in one of Asia’s most dynamic financial centers.
As regulatory clarity improves and professional services adapt, we can expect more jurisdictions to follow suit. For now, Hong Kong leads the charge, proving that when innovation meets sound governance, transformative possibilities emerge.
Keywords: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Hong Kong investment visa, cryptocurrency adoption, digital asset hub, crypto wealth verification, Capital Investment Entrant Scheme