The Institute upholds very high standards of professional membership.

There are five membership grades in the individual membership: Fellow, Executive Member, Member, Associate and Student Member. Intending applicants are welcomed to apply for any of the grades, except Fellow, which is granted by invitation from the Fellowship Committee only. Except the voting rights, all members are entitled to the same high standards of services and privileges. Only Fellows and Members have the voting rights.

All individuals who are interested in or practicing in marketing field are eligible to the membership. However, the membership is granted only upon the receipt of an official application (except Fellow) and the membership grade is approved by the Individual Committee with reference to applicant's educational qualifications and professional experience. All membership applications are subject to scrutiny by the Institute.

Full-time university students with major in marketing or related subjects, or students enrolled in the marketing programs co-organized by HKIM and other universities, are eligible for student membership, which provides access to the services and membership benefits provided by the Institute.