A spokesperson for Invest Hong Kong, the government agency responsible for facilitating foreign investments, has confirmed that cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) can be used as proof of assets when applying for the city’s New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme visa.

The program requires applicants to demonstrate a net asset value of at least HK$30 million ($3.8 million) over a specified period. While there are no specific restrictions on asset types, a valuation report must be signed by a chartered public accountant to verify the claim, according to the spokesperson’s statement in an email.

An accountant based in Hong Kong has shared success stories on social media, highlighting cases where Bitcoin and Ether were accepted as proof of wealth under the program.

Once the visa is granted, the applicant is required to invest an additional HK$30 million in what the scheme defines as “permissible assets.” However, InvestHK has clarified that cryptocurrency does not qualify as a permissible asset for this investment requirement.

Hong Kong currently hosts nine licensed cryptocurrency exchanges, commonly referred to as virtual asset trading platforms. The region has been positioning itself as a global hub for digital assets, with regulatory frameworks aimed at fostering both investor confidence and market stability.

In January, a government spokesperson revealed that the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme has already attracted over 750 applicants, underscoring strong interest from high-net-worth individuals looking to establish a financial foothold in the region.