Let me first talk about a hot topic in the recent immigration circle: Singapore and Hong Kong, both Asian financial centers, have very different immigration policies, one continuously tightening and the other continuously relaxing. How should ordinary people choose?
Today, we will use real data to compare the latest policies in the two places. From identity, taxation, and asset allocation, we will break down the areas that each family is most concerned about when planning their identity, helping you avoid clich é s and choose the right direction!
01
policy stability
Singapore simplifies, Hong Kong steals people
Singapore: New regulations simplify processes and shorten approval cycles
★ PR approval: Added a "Social Contribution Certificate" (requiring submission of volunteer service and local social records), shortening the approval time to 6 months;
★ Policy adjustment: The Singapore Immigration Department has fully implemented a new system aimed at simplifying the application process, while strengthening considerations for applicants' integration into Singapore society, as well as emphasizing economic contribution, age, and education.
Hong Kong, China: Crazy snatching of people, policies becoming increasingly lenient
★ Relaxation of asset review: The holding period of net assets has been reduced from 2 years to 6 months, and the assets of spouses/parents can be combined for calculation, reducing the pressure on individual assets;
★ More flexible investment: Added tax incentives for family offices, allowing investment of HKD 50 million to buy "non residential properties" (such as luxury homes over HKD 50 million), indirectly lowering the threshold;
★ Renewal Policy: Maintaining investment for 7 years can lead to permanent residency. The renewal pass rate is higher in 2025, making it more stable for freelancers and accompanying parents.
02
Immigrant families
The 3 most important comparisons to pay attention to!
1、 Immigration status: Singapore's' permanent residency 'is more flexible, while Hong Kong's' renewal' is relatively complex
Singapore: Singapore's PR renewal is flexible, and in the later stage, PR can be used to apply for a replacement of Singapore passport. If the passport replacement is successful, visa free access to 192 countries can be obtained. Returning to China can apply for a 5-year multiple entry business visa, with no restrictions on business activities;
Hong Kong, China: It is required to provide proof of "usual residence" (such as work, tax payment, and living records). According to data from the Immigration Department in 2025, the renewal pass rate for freelancers who can provide reasonable proof of residence is 80%.
2、 Taxation: Singapore's' Global Duty Free 'Surpasses Hong Kong
Singapore: There is no capital gains tax or inheritance tax, and the tax rate for the top 300000 Singapore dollars in corporate profits is only 4.25% -8.5%. The tax burden is significantly lower than the international average, and the income of spouses can be declared together. The tax credit for children's education expenses is up to 8000 Singapore dollars per year (approximately 44000 RMB);
Hong Kong, China: The personal income tax cap of 17% may seem low, but it is not the first residential transaction tax of 15%. The cost of middle class housing exchange and cross-border business is higher. Hong Kong overseas companies can apply for offshore exemption (tax rate of 0%) for profits, narrowing the gap with Singapore in cross-border taxation.
3、 Asset allocation: Singapore's' global layout 'is more flexible
Singapore: With a stable position as a financial center, family offices, convenient cross-border investment, no foreign exchange controls, and assets that can be freely allocated to the global market;
Hong Kong, China: Although it is also a financial center, due to geopolitical factors, there are more restrictions on asset exports and foreign exchange, resulting in less flexibility in allocation compared to Singapore.
03
Singapore or Hong Kong, China
Who is more suitable for you?
Choose Singapore:
Suitable for middle-class families who want to preserve their Chinese identity and enjoy global freedom of movement, value asset allocation and tax optimization, and are willing to settle down for a long time.
Choose Hong Kong, China:
Suitable for those who want to exchange their identity for resources in the Greater Bay Area, want to quickly obtain their identity (with relaxed asset review), but can accept the complex renewal process and high education costs.
Immigration decision-making is essentially a choice of "lifestyle+future planning". Think clearly about what you want (identity flexibility, asset allocation, tax incentives?), and then check the policy compatibility!
Don't be fooled by the trend of "chasing after others", what suits you is the best!
If you also want to apply for Singapore/Hong Kong status, please feel free to inquire with Xingyunhai International, and we will provide you with customized exclusive services.
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