Foreign Direct Investments in Hong Kong

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Foreign direct investment (FDI) plays an increasingly important role in the global economy but control mechanisms vary across the world, whether in substance or procedure. Investing in foreign countries can be complex and it is often a challenge to know where to start. Some jurisdictions have strong control mechanisms whereas others have a more open foreign investment regime. However, there is a growing concern regarding investments by foreign actors in strategic fields. FDI is therefore an increasingly essential topic in contemplated investments and cross border M&A.

This online guide is designed to help international investors looking to invest in businesses around the world. It provides a brief overview of the local regulations and considerations relevant to foreign investments and summarises practical implications and expected timelines. Our legal experts provide answers in this guide, which is organised in a Q&A format in order to provide an easy outline of the relevant subjects and practical applications.

Hong KongLast update: 3 Janeiro 2026

How are foreign investments regulated in Hong Kong?

There are no barriers to foreign investments in Hong Kong. As an international commercial and financial hub, Hong Kong promotes foreign investment through key features:

  • no tariffs or trade restrictions against foreign investors;
  • no foreign exchange controls or currency regulations;
  • no restrictions on foreign investments;
  • no nationality or residence requirements for corporate ownership, permitting 100% foreign-owned companies;
  • no nationality or residence restrictions for directors, requiring only that at least one director be an individual.


One notable exception where Hong Kong imposes restrictions on foreign shareholders concerns investments in the television or broadcasting industry. Such investments are possible only if foreign ownership does not exceed 49%.

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Which foreign investments are subject to clearance in Hong Kong?

Unlike mainland China which maintains strict capital and foreign exchange controls, Hong Kong imposes no clearance or approval requirements for investments into Hong Kong from overseas. Funds can flow freely into and out of the region without the need to comply with consent or approval procedures. This positions Hong Kong as a preferred gateway for foreign investors entering the mainland Chinese market.

Hong Kong, however, upholds a robust anti‑money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime. It mandates that financial institutions, legal professionals, and other designated entities verify the identity of clients, assess the source of their funds, and report suspicious transactions.

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What is the foreign investment clearance process in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong does not impose clearance requirements on foreign investments (see answer to previous question).

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Are there specific conditions that can be imposed on the foreign investment by Hong Kong authorities?

Hong Kong authorities do not impose specific conditions on foreign investments. Overseas investors in Hong Kong companies are subject to the same requirements as local investors, including but not limited to corporate, financial and regulatory standards.

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What other main challenges do foreign investors face in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong maintains a highly accessible investment market for foreign capital. However, overseas investors should be mindful of several practical and operational considerations that require careful navigation.

  • Bank account opening: opening a corporate bank account is often difficult due to stringent anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing requirements, with several banks requiring directors to undergo in person identity verification. This can be mitigated by exploring account opening with licensed virtual banks, which may offer fully digital onboarding.
  • Property and office space market: all land in Hong Kong is leasehold which, coupled with limited supply, leads to high rental costs and short lease terms, typically lasting two to three years.
  • Immigration and visa requirements: investors wishing to apply for a visa for entry for investment as entrepreneurs or under the capital investment entrant scheme must meticulously prepare their application to ensure they meet all Immigration Department requirements.
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