Govt approves three visas under new investment scheme
The government on Wednesday said it has approved three visa applications under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) since its launch in March. The scheme received about 340 applications. Director of Immigration Benson Kwok said the authorities are exploring more opportunities to boost business travel convenience in the city. "I believe the New CIES will bring new vitality and opportunities to Hong Kong. The Immigration Department will continue to collaborate closely with InvestHK to create an even more business-friendly environment in Hong Kong," he wrote in a statement. Alpha Lau, director-general of InvestHK, said the government will continue strengthening Hong Kong as a business hub. "The New CIES brings a vast pool of talents to Hong Kong, attracting successful businessmen and innovative entrepreneurs, and with current application numbers an expected investment of over HK$10 billion to enhance the developmental strengths of Hong Kong's asset and wealth management industry," she said. The government said 80 applicants have been granted a visitor visa at this stage, to allow them to stay in Hong Kong to make investments. Applicants are required to invest a minimum of HK$30 million in the SAR's tech and innovation sectors.