Invest Hong Kong today reported a strong response to the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES) which has received more than 500 applications and over 5,000 enquiries since its launch on March 1.

Citing the figures as of September 13, InvestHK expects the scheme will bring an investment amount of more than $15 billion into the city.

Of the applications received, 448 were verified as having fulfilled the net asset requirement, and 47 applications were verified as having fulfilled the investment requirements.

An eligible applicant must have net assets of not less than $30 million in the two years preceding his or her application, and make an investment of $30 million in Hong Kong within the six-month time limit.

Director-General of Investment Promotion Alpha Lau said the increasing New CIES application figures reflect the strong confidence from high-net-worth individuals in Hong Kong.

“The scheme attracts successful businessmen and innovative entrepreneurs, and enhances the strengths of Hong Kong’s asset and wealth management industry.”

Additionally, applicants can now submit application forms for net asset assessment and assessment on investment requirements online.

Ms Lau also encouraged applicants to use the online application platform as early as possible to enjoy more convenient and efficient application services.