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Hong Kong Embraces Crypto: Bitcoin and Ethereum Now Valid for Residency Visa Applications

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Hong Kong Embraces Crypto: Bitcoin and Ethereum Now Valid for Residency Visa Applications

In a groundbreaking move, Hong Kong has officially recognized Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as valid proof of assets for its investment immigration program, marking a significant step toward integrating cryptocurrencies into its financial and regulatory framework. This policy shift, confirmed by the Hong Kong Investment Promotion Agency and Invest Hong Kong, positions the city as a global leader in embracing digital assets and reinforces its ambition to remain a premier financial hub. Here’s what this development means for high-net-worth crypto investors and Hong Kong’s evolving role in the digital economy.

A New Era for Investment Immigration

Hong Kong’s Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) allows wealthy individuals to apply for residency by demonstrating a net worth of at least HK$30 million (approximately US$3.8 million) and investing an equivalent amount in approved assets within six months. Historically, the program accepted traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate. However, recent cases have expanded the scope to include cryptocurrencies, specifically Bitcoin and Ethereum.

The first successful case occurred in October 2024, when an applicant from mainland China used Bitcoin holdings to meet the financial threshold. A second approval followed on February 7, 2025, with another applicant leveraging HK$30 million in Ethereum, as confirmed by Hong Kong-based accountant Xiao Yaohe. These approvals signal a progressive shift, allowing crypto investors to use their digital wealth to secure residency in one of Asia’s most dynamic financial centers.

Strict Requirements for Crypto Assets

While Hong Kong’s acceptance of Bitcoin and Ethereum is a milestone, the process is tightly regulated to ensure transparency and compliance. Applicants must adhere to the following criteria:

  • Asset Storage: Cryptocurrency holdings must be stored in cold wallets or on major, regulated exchanges like Binance to ensure security and traceability.
  • Verification: A chartered public accountant must provide a signed valuation report confirming the market value of the digital assets at the time of application. Applicants are also required to submit transaction histories and proof of ownership to prevent fraud.
  • Investment Conversion: While crypto can be used to prove wealth, the subsequent HK$30 million investment must be made in “permissible assets” such as stocks, bonds, or real estate, not cryptocurrencies or crypto-based ETFs. This requirement ensures that digital assets are converted into traditional investments within six months of approval.

These measures reflect Hong Kong’s cautious yet forward-thinking approach, balancing innovation with robust anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations.

Why This Matters

Hong Kong’s decision to accept Bitcoin and Ethereum for residency applications has far-reaching implications:

  1. Legitimizing Cryptocurrencies: By recognizing BTC and ETH as valid proof of wealth, Hong Kong is legitimizing digital assets in a way that few jurisdictions have. This move could drive institutional demand for cryptocurrencies and encourage other countries to adopt similar policies.
  2. Attracting Crypto Wealth: The policy targets high-net-worth individuals whose wealth is tied to digital assets, offering them a clear pathway to residency. With over 750 applications recorded for the CIES earlier this year, Hong Kong is poised to attract significant capital inflows from crypto-affluent investors.
  3. Competitive Edge: Hong Kong is competing with other financial hubs like Singapore, which has long accepted cryptocurrencies for similar programs but requires proof of the initial source of funds. Hong Kong’s more streamlined approach could give it an edge in attracting global talent and investment.

Hong Kong’s Broader Crypto Ambitions

This policy is part of Hong Kong’s broader strategy to establish itself as a global digital finance hub. The city has taken several steps to integrate cryptocurrencies into its financial system:

  • Regulatory Framework: The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has issued licenses to nine virtual asset trading platforms, including PantherTrade and YAX in January 2025. Only four cryptocurrencies—Bitcoin, Ethereum, Avalanche (AVAX), and Chainlink (LINK)—are currently approved for trading, reflecting a cautious but progressive stance.
  • Policy Advocacy: Hong Kong legislator Johnny Ng Kit-chong has pushed for faster adoption of crypto regulations, including stablecoin initiatives and a proposed Digital Asset Office. In December 2024, legislator Wu Jiexhuang suggested including Bitcoin in the city’s national reserves to bolster financial security.
  • Market Growth: A February 2025 report by Gemini and Glassnode noted that retail Bitcoin transactions in the Asia-Pacific region, excluding ETF activity, are growing faster than in the U.S. and Europe, with Hong Kong contributing to a 6.4% year-over-year increase in Bitcoin supply.

These efforts underscore Hong Kong’s commitment to fostering a safe and thriving digital asset ecosystem while maintaining rigorous oversight.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the opportunities, there are challenges to navigate:

  • Market Volatility: The volatile nature of cryptocurrencies poses risks, as asset values can fluctuate significantly between application and verification. Applicants must ensure their holdings consistently meet the HK$30 million threshold.
  • Regulatory Evolution: Hong Kong’s crypto policies are still evolving, and further clarification is needed on whether other cryptocurrencies or crypto-based investments will qualify in the future. The government is currently evaluating its stance on these assets.
  • Compliance Burden: Proving ownership and traceability of crypto assets can be complex due to their pseudonymous nature. Applicants must provide thorough documentation to avoid rejections, which could deter some investors.

A Global Precedent?

Hong Kong’s acceptance of Bitcoin and Ethereum for residency visas sets a precedent that could reshape global investment immigration standards. As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream acceptance, other jurisdictions may follow suit, creating more inclusive pathways for digital asset holders. For now, Hong Kong is leading the charge, offering crypto investors a regulated and strategic base in Asia.

For high-net-worth individuals looking to leverage their Bitcoin or Ethereum holdings, Hong Kong’s CIES provides a unique opportunity. Successful applicants receive an initial two-year visa, renewable in a 2-2-3-year cycle, with the potential for permanent residency if investments are sustained. With two additional crypto-based applications currently under review, the program’s popularity is likely to grow.

Conclusion

Hong Kong’s decision to recognize Bitcoin and Ethereum as proof of assets for residency visas is a bold step toward integrating digital currencies into its financial system. By offering a clear and regulated pathway for crypto investors, the city is not only modernizing its immigration policies but also cementing its status as a global hub for financial innovation. As the world watches, Hong Kong’s move could inspire a broader shift in how cryptocurrencies are perceived and utilized in investment migration, paving the way for a more dynamic and inclusive financial future.

For those interested in applying, consult with certified professionals to navigate the program’s strict requirements and ensure compliance. Hong Kong is open for business—and now, it’s open for crypto.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a direct offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or a recommendation or endorsement of any products, services, or companies. CoinReporter.io and EUReporter.co does not provide investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Neither the company nor the author is responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article.

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BTC Prague 2025: Europe’s Premier Bitcoin-Only Conference Returns to Shape the Future of Finance

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From June 19–21, 2025, Prague, Czech Republic, will once again become the epicenter of the Bitcoin revolution as BTC Prague, Europe’s largest and most influential Bitcoin-only conference, returns for its third year. Hosted at the expansive PVA Expo Praha, this three-day event is set to bring together over 10,000 attendees, 220+ speakers, and 90+ companies, all united by a shared passion for Bitcoin’s transformative potential. With a focus on financial sovereignty, technological innovation, and community building, BTC Prague 2025 promises to be a landmark event for Bitcoin enthusiasts, developers, investors, and newcomers alike.

A Bitcoin-Only Beacon in Europe

BTC Prague stands out for its unwavering commitment to a “Bitcoin-only” ethos, ensuring a high signal-to-noise ratio that prioritizes meaningful discussions over hype. As the organizers emphasize, this is not just a conference but a movement to “build bridges and strengthen connections within the European Bitcoin space and beyond.” Held in a city with a rich history of fighting for freedom, Prague is a fitting backdrop for an event that champions Bitcoin’s apolitical, incorruptible, and open nature. The conference aims to deepen understanding, expand networks, and empower attendees to shape the future of Bitcoin.

Star-Studded Lineup of Speakers

BTC Prague 2025 boasts an impressive roster of over 220 speakers, including some of the most prominent voices in the Bitcoin ecosystem. Notable names include:

  • Michael Saylor, a leading Bitcoin advocate and the largest corporate hodler through MicroStrategy, who will share insights on Bitcoin as a corporate treasury asset. Saylor’s first-ever European Bitcoin conference appearance in 2023 was a highlight, and his return is highly anticipated.
  • Adam Back, CEO of Blockstream, a key figure in Bitcoin’s technical development, who will dive into the protocol’s resilience and innovation.
  • Saifedean Ammous, author of The Bitcoin Standard, offering economic perspectives on Bitcoin’s role in a world of inflation and institutional decay.
  • Eric Semler, founder of Semler Scientific, who transformed his company’s balance sheet with a Bitcoin-forward strategy, sharing actionable insights for corporate adoption.
  • Paolo Ardoino, a cryptography expert and leader in Bitcoin-related tech innovation, discussing advancements in financial freedom.

These speakers, alongside developers, miners, educators, and entrepreneurs, will cover topics ranging from Bitcoin’s open-source foundation to its integration into traditional finance, geopolitical game theory, and corporate strategies. Panels like “Financial Engineering with Bitcoin Standard” and “Bitcoin for Organizations” will provide practical blueprints for individuals and institutions looking to leverage Bitcoin’s potential.

A Comprehensive Program for All

BTC Prague 2025 offers a dynamic program designed to cater to everyone, from curious newcomers to seasoned Bitcoiners. The event features:

  • Main Stage and Expo Stage: Hosting keynotes, fireside chats, and panels in English, with top-tier speakers addressing Bitcoin’s technological, economic, and societal impact.
  • Czech Stage: An outdoor stage for local audiences, delivering content in Czech to engage the regional Bitcoin community.
  • Workshops and Panels: Deep dives into topics like self-custody, mining, and financial sovereignty, with hands-on sessions for practical learning.
  • Expo Area: Over 90 Bitcoin-focused companies, including partners like Trezor, Fedi, and ElenPAY, will showcase cutting-edge products and services, from hardware wallets to lightning payment solutions. Attendees can interact directly with innovators and test new technologies.
  • Side Events: From Bitcoin & Brews with Rootstock to the Satlantis Sunday Social, side events offer networking opportunities, discussions on privacy and freedom tech, and even a Bitcoin treasure hunt with real BTC prizes.
  • VIP and Business Day: On June 19, the exclusive Business Day caters to entrepreneurs and executives, offering high-quality content and quieter expo access. VIP pass holders enjoy front-row sofa seating, a private lounge, premium food and drinks, and exclusive Q&A sessions with speakers. Every VIP attendee will also receive a free Bitkey hardware wallet.

The event’s “Summer Orange Vibe” includes food and chill zones, great Czech beer, two afterparties, and a kids’ corner, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Kids up to 8 years old get free Expo tickets, making it family-friendly.

Why Prague? A Hub of Bitcoin Innovation

Prague’s selection as the host city is no coincidence. The Czech Republic has a storied history of fostering Bitcoin innovation, giving rise to projects like Trezor and Slush Pool. The conference’s venue, PVA Expo Praha, spans 19,000 m² and includes a conference area, expo hall, VIP lounge, art gallery, gaming zone, and party stage. Located just a 5-minute walk from the Letňany metro station (Line C), the venue is easily accessible, with accommodations near the metro offering convenient access.

The city’s legacy of fighting for freedom, from the Defenestrations of Prague to its modern Bitcoin movement, aligns with BTC Prague’s mission to promote financial sovereignty and individual empowerment. As one attendee noted, “I used to think I was the only Bitcoiner in my town. Thanks to BTC Prague, I gained the biggest value out there—friendships.”

Ticketing and Accessibility

BTC Prague offers a range of ticket options to suit different needs:

  • Expo Pass: Ideal for beginners, granting access to the expo area and basic sessions.
  • Conference Pass: Suitable for all Bitcoiners, providing access to main stages and workshops.
  • Industry Pass: Geared toward professionals seeking to engage with the Bitcoin space.
  • VIP Pass: The top-tier option, offering full access, premium hospitality, and exclusive perks like the Business Day and Bitkey wallet.

Tickets start at €15, with a 5% discount for Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network. The event prioritizes anonymity, requiring no personal data—just a QR code for entry. Tickets can be upgraded, gifted, or sold, with clear instructions provided via email. Early bird tickets are available, but prices increase monthly, so securing a spot early is recommended.

A Community-Driven Experience

What sets BTC Prague apart is its emphasis on community. Organizers Matyas and Martin, backed by their company Twenty One Million s.r.o., curate a welcoming environment that fosters connections and ideas. Attendees have praised the event’s professional execution and its ability to create lasting relationships. One participant shared, “For such a brilliant event like BTC Prague, you just make sacrifices. Deepest thanks to Matyas and his fabulous team for this unforgettable experience.”

The conference also supports side events organized by the community, such as the Dev/Hack/Day for developers and the Hispanic Meetup for Spanish-speaking Bitcoiners, ensuring inclusivity across cultures and expertise levels.

Shaping the Future of Bitcoin

BTC Prague 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. With Bitcoin’s price climbing and global adoption accelerating, the conference will explore how Bitcoin is reshaping finance, from institutional custody solutions to nation-state strategies. Sessions will address why Bitcoin is moving from a “risk to own” to a “risk not to own” asset and how it empowers individuals in a world of inflation and overreach.

As the organizers state, “We don’t witness the future of Bitcoin here—we are shaping it.” Whether you’re looking to enhance your knowledge, find your next big opportunity, or connect with like-minded enthusiasts, BTC Prague offers the ideal setting to accelerate your Bitcoin journey.

How to Join

Ready to be part of Europe’s biggest Bitcoin event? Visit www.btcprague.com to secure your tickets, explore the full program, and plan your trip. For updates, follow BTC Prague on X (

@BTCPrague), LinkedIn, Telegram, YouTube, Nostr, Instagram, or Facebook. Have questions? Contact the team at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Don’t miss your chance to join the movement shaping the new global economic order. BTC Prague 2025 is where ideas meet, relationships form, and real Bitcoin stories are made. See you in Prague!


Disclaimer: Information is sourced from the official BTC Prague website and related posts on X. For the latest details, verify with www.btcprague.com.

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