The Essential Hong Kong Expat Guide

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens from over 170 countries can enter Hong Kong visa-free for tourism or business visits. Duration varies by nationality:

• United Kingdom: 180 days
• United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: 90 days
• EU Countries: 90 days (most)
• Singapore, Japan, South Korea: 90 days

Employment Visas

To work in Hong Kong, you'll need an employment visa sponsored by your employer. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks.

General Employment Policy (GEP)

For most foreign professionals. Requirements:

• Job offer from a Hong Kong company
• Relevant qualifications and experience
• Salary at market rate (typically HK$25,000+ per month)
• Proof that the position cannot be filled locally

Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)

For highly skilled individuals who can contribute to Hong Kong's economy without a job offer. Points-based system considering age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Dependent Visas

Spouses and unmarried children under 18 can apply for dependent visas. Dependents are allowed to work in Hong Kong. Application typically takes 4-6 weeks and costs HK$230.

Investment & Entrepreneurship Visas

• Capital Investment Entrant Scheme: Currently suspended but may be reinstated
• Investment as Entrepreneur: For those starting a business in Hong Kong
• Top Talent Pass Scheme: New scheme for high-earners (HK$2.5m+ annual) and graduates from top universities

Permanent Residency

After 7 years of continuous ordinary residence in Hong Kong, you can apply for permanent residency. Benefits include:

• Right of abode (no visa restrictions)
• HKSAR passport (visa-free travel to 170+ countries)
• No need to renew visas
• Full voting rights

Official Government Resources

Popular Expat Areas

Hong Kong Island

• Central & Mid-Levels: Premium area, close to business district, excellent international schools. Expect HK$40,000-100,000/month for a 2-bedroom.
• Repulse Bay & Stanley: Beachside living, family-friendly, more spacious apartments. HK$50,000-120,000/month for 2-3 bedrooms.
• Happy Valley & Causeway Bay: Central location, good transport links, vibrant nightlife. HK$35,000-70,000/month.
• Sai Kung: Known as Hong Kong's "back garden," great for nature lovers and families. HK$25,000-60,000/month.

Kowloon

• Tsim Sha Tsui: Shopping hub, excellent transport, harbor views. HK$30,000-60,000/month.
• Kowloon Tong: Quieter, family-oriented, near international schools. HK$35,000-75,000/month.
• Olympic Station & West Kowloon: Modern developments, good value. HK$25,000-55,000/month.

New Territories

• Discovery Bay: Car-free island community, very expat-friendly, beach clubs. HK$30,000-70,000/month.
• Tung Chung: Near airport, newer developments, budget-friendly. HK$18,000-45,000/month.
• Tai Po & Sai Kung: Nature-oriented, larger homes, further from city center. HK$20,000-50,000/month.

Understanding Hong Kong Apartments

Rental Process

1. Search: Use property websites (Squarefoot.com.hk, 28Hse.com, Spacious.hk) or engage an agent
2. Viewings: Arrange multiple viewings; competition is fierce
3. Offer: Make an offer through your agent
4. Documentation: Provide passport, employment contract, proof of income, references
5. Lease Signing: Standard 2-year lease with a break clause after 1 year
6. Deposits: Typically 2 months' rent plus 1 month commission to agent

Costs & Expenses

Housing Authorities & Resources

• Rating and Valuation Department: Property valuations and government rates - rvd.gov.hk
• Hong Kong Housing Authority: Public housing information - housingauthority.gov.hk
• Lands Department: Land administration and registry - landsd.gov.hk

Serviced Apartments & Temporary Housing

Great for initial arrival while you search for permanent housing:

• Serviced Apartments: Fully furnished with utilities, cleaning, gym. HK$25,000-60,000/month
• Hotels with Extended Stay: Short-term solution, can be expensive
• Airbnb: Available but check legality for stays over 28 days

Public vs Private Healthcare

Hong Kong has excellent healthcare, ranked among the world's best.

Public Healthcare

• Cost: Highly subsidized—HK$50 for A&E, HK$135 for specialist consultation
• Quality: Excellent medical care, experienced doctors
• Drawback: Very long waiting times (hours in A&E, weeks/months for specialists)
• Eligibility: Available to Hong Kong ID card holders

Private Healthcare

• Cost: Significantly more expensive—GP consultations HK$800-1,500
• Quality: Same doctors often work in both sectors
• Benefit: Minimal waiting, English-speaking staff, better facilities
• Hospitals: Adventist, Matilda, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Gleneagles

Health Insurance

Most expats opt for private health insurance. Your employer may provide coverage.

Key Considerations:

• Maternity coverage (often excluded or requires 12-month waiting)
• Pre-existing conditions (usually excluded)
• Outpatient vs inpatient coverage
• Geographical coverage (HK only vs regional vs global)
• Annual limits and deductibles

Finding Doctors & Specialists

• General Practitioners: Widely available in all districts, many accept walk-ins
• Expat-Focused Clinics: Central Health Medical Practice, OT&P Healthcare, Quality Healthcare
• Specialist Referrals: GP referral usually required for specialists
• Emergency: Call 999 for ambulance (free service)

Major Public Hospitals

• Queen Mary Hospital: Major teaching hospital - QMH
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital: Kowloon major hospital - QEH
• Prince of Wales Hospital: New Territories major hospital - PWH

Health Authorities

• Hospital Authority: Manages all public hospitals - ha.org.hk
• Department of Health: Public health services - dh.gov.hk
• Centre for Health Protection: Disease control and prevention - chp.gov.hk

Pharmacies & Medications

• Pharmacies: Watsons and Mannings ubiquitous across Hong Kong
• Prescriptions: Many medications available over-the-counter that require prescription elsewhere
• Costs: Generally affordable; prescription medications HK$50-300
• International Medications: May need to special order from overseas

Opening a Bank Account

Hong Kong's banking system is sophisticated and efficient. Most expats can open accounts easily.

Required Documents

• Valid passport
• Hong Kong ID card (or visa/employment letter if just arrived)
• Proof of Hong Kong address (utility bill, tenancy agreement)
• Employment contract or proof of income
• Minimum initial deposit (varies by bank, typically HK$10,000-100,000 for premium accounts)

Major Banks

• HSBC: Largest bank, excellent international services, higher minimum balances
• Hang Seng Bank: Local bank, lower fees, good for everyday banking
• Standard Chartered: Strong expat services, good for international transfers
• Citibank: Global network, premium banking options
• DBS: Singapore-based, good digital banking

Banking Services & Fees

Credit Cards & Payment

• Credit Cards: Widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard
• Octopus Card: Essential stored-value card for transport, shops, restaurants
• Mobile Payments: AlipayHK, WeChat Pay HK, Apple Pay, Google Pay all popular
• Cash: Still commonly used, especially at local markets and smaller shops

Taxation

Hong Kong has one of the world's simplest, most favorable tax systems.

Salaries Tax

Progressive tax rates on Hong Kong-sourced income only:

Key Tax Features

• No Capital Gains Tax
• No Sales Tax/VAT
• No Estate/Inheritance Tax
• Territorial System: Only Hong Kong-sourced income taxed
• Allowances: Basic allowance HK$132,000, married person's allowance HK$264,000, child allowance HK$130,000 per child

International Money Transfers

Several options for sending money internationally:

• Banks: Traditional but expensive (HK$200-300 + 1-3% spread)
• Wise (TransferWise): Low fees, transparent rates
• Western Union: Fast but expensive
• XE Money Transfer: Competitive rates
• OFX: Good for larger amounts

Financial Authorities & Resources

Public Transport (MTR)

Hong Kong's Mass Transit Railway is world-class: efficient, clean, affordable, and covers most of the city.

Octopus Card

• Essential: Used for all public transport plus shopping
• Cost: HK$150 (HK$50 deposit + HK$100 stored value)
• Top-up: At MTR stations, 7-Eleven, Circle K, online
• Automatic Add Value: Link to credit card for auto top-up

MTR Fares

Distance-based, typically HK$5-25 per journey. Monthly Pass available for frequent travelers (HK$435 for limited routes).

Buses, Trams & Ferries

• Buses: Extensive network, fares HK$3-15, use Octopus card
• Trams (Ding Ding): HK Island only, flat HK$3 fare, iconic experience
• Star Ferry: Cross harbor, HK$3-4, scenic and efficient
• Ferries: To outlying islands and coastal areas, HK$15-30

Taxis

Three color-coded types, all metered and reliable:

Apps: HKTaxi, Call4Van for booking. Uber available but limited compared to taxis.

Driving in Hong Kong

Do You Need a Car?

Most expats don't need one due to excellent public transport. However, cars useful for:

• Families in outlying areas (Discovery Bay, Sai Kung)
• Weekend getaways and hiking trips
• Convenience with young children

Driving License

• International License: Valid for 12 months for tourists
• Hong Kong License: Apply within first year using overseas license + driving test exemption (if from recognized country)
• Cost: HK$900 for license, HK$548 for 10-year renewal

Car Ownership Costs

Transport Authorities

• Transport Department: Driving licenses, vehicle registration - td.gov.hk
• MTR Corporation: Mass Transit Railway official site - mtr.com.hk
• Hong Kong International Airport: Flight info and services - hongkongairport.com

International Schools

Hong Kong has over 50 international schools following various curricula.

Top International Schools

• Hong Kong International School (HKIS): American curriculum, Pre-K to Grade 12, HK$175,000-264,000/year
• Chinese International School (CIS): Bilingual IB, Reception to Year 13, HK$163,000-285,000/year
• Kellett School: British curriculum, Reception to Year 13, HK$159,000-244,000/year
• Canadian International School: Canadian/IB, Pre-K to Grade 12, HK$143,000-214,000/year
• Harrow International: British curriculum, Year 1-13, HK$177,000-249,000/year
• German Swiss International School: German/English, Kindergarten to Grade 12, HK$110,000-192,000/year
• French International School: French curriculum, Maternelle to Terminale, HK$82,000-134,000/year

Curricula Options

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Globally recognized, rigorous program
• British (UK National Curriculum/IGCSE/A-Levels): Traditional British system
• American (Common Core/AP): Preparation for US universities
• Canadian: Similar to American with Canadian focus
• Others: French, German, Japanese, Korean, Australian, Singaporean

Application Process

1. Apply Early: Some schools have 2-3 year waiting lists. Apply as soon as you know you're moving.
2. Debentures: Many schools require debenture purchase (HK$500,000-5,000,000), refundable when you leave
3. Capital Levy: Some schools charge non-refundable capital levy (HK$30,000-60,000)
4. Application Fees: HK$2,000-3,000 non-refundable
5. Assessment: Children may need interviews/assessments
6. Priority: Siblings, debenture holders, and certain nationalities get priority

Local Schools

Hong Kong's local schools follow the HKDSE curriculum (Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education). Teaching primarily in Cantonese or English (EMI schools).

• Cost: Free for government schools, HK$5,000-50,000/year for private schools
• Advantages: Excellent academic standards, cultural immersion, affordable
• Challenges: Language barrier, intense academic pressure, different teaching style

Additional Education Costs

Universities & Higher Education

Hong Kong has several world-ranked universities:

• University of Hong Kong (HKU): Top-ranked, established 1911 - hku.hk
• Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK): Strong research focus - cuhk.edu.hk
• Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST): Top for engineering and business - ust.hk
• City University of Hong Kong: Excellent professional programs - cityu.edu.hk
• Hong Kong Polytechnic University: Strong applied sciences - polyu.edu.hk

Tuition: HK$42,100/year for local students, HK$145,000/year for international students

Education Authorities

• Education Bureau: School policies and regulations - edb.gov.hk
• Hong Kong Schools Directory: Search for schools - School Search

Key Industries for Expats

• Finance & Banking: Major global financial hub, strong demand for financial professionals
• Professional Services: Legal, accounting, consulting firms
• Technology: Growing fintech, AI, and startup ecosystem
• Education: International schools, English teaching, tutoring
• Hospitality & Tourism: Hotels, restaurants, travel services
• Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, medical professionals
• Trading & Logistics: Global trading hub

Working Culture

• Hours: Typically 9am-6pm, but long hours common in finance and professional services
• Hierarchy: Respect for seniority and experience
• Communication: English widely used in business, but Cantonese helpful
• Work-Life Balance: Improving but still challenging in some sectors
• Dress Code: Business formal common in corporate settings, smart casual in tech/startups

Employment Terms & Benefits

Statutory Minimums

• Annual Leave: 7 days after 1 year, increasing to 14 days after 9 years
• Public Holidays: 12 days (or 17 statutory holidays)
• Sick Leave: 2 paid sick days per month (after 1 month employment)
• Maternity Leave: 14 weeks at 4/5 pay (if employed 40+ weeks)
• Paternity Leave: 5 days paid
• Severance Payment: 2/3 of monthly wages per year of service (if made redundant)

Typical Expat Package

• Base Salary: HK$40,000-200,000+ per month depending on role and seniority
• Housing Allowance: Often 15-25% of base salary or company-provided accommodation
• Annual Leave: 15-25 days typical for expat packages
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive private medical coverage
• School Fees: Full or partial coverage
• Annual Flight: Home leave tickets for family
• Bonus: 1-6 months' salary (performance-based)

Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)

Hong Kong's retirement savings scheme. Both employer and employee contribute.

• Contribution Rate: 5% from employer + 5% from employee
• Minimum Income: HK$7,100/month to be enrolled
• Maximum Contribution: Capped at HK$1,500/month (salary over HK$30,000)
• Withdrawal: At age 65 or when permanently leaving Hong Kong
• Investment: Choose from various funds (equity, bond, mixed)

Starting a Business

Company Formation

• Process: Can be completed in 1-4 days online
• Cost: HK$1,720 registration fee + HK$250 business certificate
• Types: Limited company, sole proprietorship, partnership
• Requirements: Local registered address, company secretary, 1+ director

Ongoing Requirements

• Annual Return: File within 42 days of anniversary
• Audit: Required for most limited companies
• Profits Tax Return: 16.5% on Hong Kong-sourced profits
• Business Registration Fee: HK$250/year

Employment & Business Authorities

• Labour Department: Employment rights and disputes - labour.gov.hk
• Companies Registry: Company registration and searches - cr.gov.hk
• Business Registration Office: Business license applications - Business Registration
• Invest Hong Kong: Support for setting up businesses - investhk.gov.hk

Cost of Living

Hong Kong is expensive but salaries generally match. Here's a monthly budget for different lifestyles:

Note: Does not include school fees, health insurance, or savings

Shopping & Groceries

Supermarkets

• ParknShop: Widespread, mid-range prices
• Wellcome: Competitor to ParknShop, similar range
• Taste/Great: Premium supermarkets, imported goods
• City'super: High-end, excellent imported selection
• Marks & Spencer: British products, premium prices
• Wet Markets: Fresh local produce, seafood, meat—cheapest option

Shopping Malls

• IFC Mall: Luxury brands, Central
• Harbour City: Massive mall, Tsim Sha Tsui
• Pacific Place: Upscale shopping, Admiralty
• Times Square: Mid-range to high-end, Causeway Bay
• Citygate Outlets: Discount shopping, Tung Chung

Dining & Food

Hong Kong is a food paradise with incredible variety.

Typical Meal Costs

• Cha Chaan Teng (Local Cafe): HK$40-80
• Dim Sum: HK$100-200 per person
• Fast Food (McDonald's, KFC): HK$40-60
• Casual Restaurant: HK$150-300 per person
• Mid-Range Restaurant: HK$300-600 per person
• Fine Dining: HK$800-2,000+ per person

Must-Try Foods

• Dim Sum: Traditional Cantonese small plates
• Roast Goose: Hong Kong specialty
• Wonton Noodles: Classic comfort food
• Pineapple Bun: Sweet pastry (best with butter)
• Egg Tarts: Portuguese-influenced dessert
• Hot Pot: Communal cooking experience

Domestic Helpers

Many expat families employ domestic helpers (maids) from Philippines, Indonesia, or other countries.

Costs & Requirements

• Minimum Wage: HK$4,730/month (subject to annual adjustments)
• Agency Fees: HK$8,000-15,000 (one-time)
• Food Allowance: HK$1,236/month (if not provided)
• Accommodation: Must provide separate room or pay accommodation allowance
• Flights: Employer pays for annual return flight home
• Medical: Employer responsible for medical costs
• Contract: 2-year standard employment contract

Total Monthly Cost

Approximately HK$6,000-8,000 including salary, food, MPF, insurance

Sports & Recreation

• Hiking: Excellent trails (Dragon's Back, Lion Rock, Lantau Peak)
• Beaches: Repulse Bay, Shek O, Big Wave Bay, many outlying island beaches
• Gyms: HK$500-2,000/month (Fitness First, Pure Fitness, Anytime Fitness)
• Sports Clubs: Cricket, rugby, soccer, tennis clubs (membership HK$10,000-50,000/year)
• Yacht Clubs: Aberdeen Marina Club, Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (expensive memberships)
• Golf: Limited courses, expensive (green fees HK$1,000-3,000)

Social & Expat Community

• Clubs: American Club, Foreign Correspondents' Club, Hong Kong Club
• Networking: InterNations, chamber of commerce events, industry meetups
• Facebook Groups: Numerous expat groups by nationality and interest
• Activities: Hash House Harriers (running), Dragon Boat teams, hiking groups
• Volunteering: Many opportunities with local charities and organizations

Language

Official Languages

• Chinese (Cantonese): Primary spoken language
• English: Widely spoken, official language, used in business and government

Learning Cantonese

• Useful: Makes daily life easier, shows respect for local culture
• Challenging: Tonal language with 6-9 tones, complex characters
• Classes: HKU SPACE, Chinese University, private tutors (HK$300-600/hour)
• Apps: Duolingo, HelloChinese, Pleco (dictionary)

Useful Hong Kong Resources

Essential online tools and resources for daily life in Hong Kong:

Mobile Phones & Internet

Mobile Service

• Major Providers: 3 HK, CSL, SmarTone, China Mobile HK
• Contract Plans: HK$200-500/month (unlimited data available)
• Prepaid SIM: Available at convenience stores, HK$50-100
• Coverage: Excellent 4G/5G throughout Hong Kong

Home Internet

• Fiber Broadband: Widely available, 100-1000 Mbps
• Cost: HK$150-400/month
• Providers: HKT, HKBN, i-cable, SmarTone
• Setup: Usually installed within 1-2 weeks

Utilities & Services

Electricity & Gas

• Providers: HK Electric (HK Island), CLP (Kowloon & NT), Towngas
• Average Cost: HK$500-1,500/month for 2-bed apartment
• Setup: Arrange upon move-in, requires deposit

Water

• Provider: Water Supplies Department
• Cost: Very cheap, typically HK$50-150/quarter
• Quality: Tap water treated and safe but most people filter or buy bottled

Emergency Numbers

Weather & Seasons

• Spring (March-May): Mild, humid, often foggy. 18-28°C
• Summer (June-August): Hot, very humid, typhoons. 26-33°C
• Autumn (September-November): Best season—warm, sunny, low humidity. 19-28°C
• Winter (December-February): Cool, dry. 12-20°C (rarely below 10°C)

Typhoons

• Season: May to November (peak July-September)
• Signal System: T1 (standby) to T10 (most severe)
• T8 or above: Schools and offices close, stay indoors
• Frequency: 2-6 typhoons per year reach T8+
• Hong Kong Observatory: Official weather authority - hko.gov.hk

Public Holidays 2025

Hong Kong observes 17 public holidays annually. View complete Hong Kong holiday calendar →

• January 1: New Year's Day
• January 29-31: Chinese New Year
• April 4-5, 7: Ching Ming Festival & Easter
• May 1: Labour Day
• May 5: Buddha's Birthday
• June 10: Dragon Boat Festival
• July 1: HKSAR Establishment Day
• September 17: Day after Mid-Autumn Festival
• October 1: National Day
• October 11: Chung Yeung Festival
• December 25-26: Christmas

Note: Many companies follow the 12 public holidays schedule, while others observe all 17 statutory holidays. Check with your employer.

Safety & Crime

Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world.

• Crime Rate: Very low violent crime
• Petty Crime: Pickpocketing rare but can occur in crowded areas
• Scams: Be cautious of phone/online scams targeting expats
• Walking at Night: Generally very safe throughout the city
• Women Traveling Alone: Very safe, low harassment
• Hong Kong Police Force: Emergency 999, non-emergency 2527 7177 - police.gov.hk

Cultural Tips

• Tipping: Not mandatory; 10% service charge often included in restaurants
• Business Cards: Exchange with both hands, read carefully when received
• Gift Giving: Avoid clocks, scissors, white/black wrapping (funeral colors)
• Chopsticks: Don't stick them upright in rice (funeral ritual)
• Pointing: Use open hand instead of index finger
• Queue Culture: Hong Kongers are very orderly—always queue properly
• Loud Speaking: Keep voice down in public transport and restaurants
• Superstitions: Number 4 avoided (sounds like "death"), 8 is lucky

Within Hong Kong

• Outlying Islands: Lantau, Lamma, Cheung Chau—beaches, hiking, seafood
• Hiking Trails: MacLehose Trail, Wilson Trail, Dragon's Back (Asia's best urban trail)
• Country Parks: Sai Kung, Tai Mo Shan, Ma On Shan
• Cultural Sites: Po Lin Monastery, Ten Thousand Buddhas, Wong Tai Sin Temple
• Theme Parks: Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park

Tourism & Recreation Resources

• Hong Kong Tourism Board: Visitor information and attractions - discoverhongkong.com
• Leisure and Cultural Services Department: Parks, sports facilities, museums - lcsd.gov.hk
• Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation: Country parks and hiking - afcd.gov.hk

Nearby Destinations

Mainland China

• Shenzhen: 30 min by MTR, shopping, theme parks (requires visa for most nationalities)
• Guangzhou: 2 hours by train, historic sites, Cantonese culture
• Guilin: 2-hour flight, stunning karst landscapes
• Shanghai/Beijing: 2.5-hour flight, major cultural centers

Southeast Asia

• Macau: 1 hour by ferry, Portuguese heritage, casinos
• Taiwan: 2-hour flight, food paradise, beautiful scenery
• Philippines: 2-hour flight, beaches, diving
• Thailand: 2.5-hour flight, Bangkok, islands
• Vietnam: 2-hour flight, culture, beaches, food

Other Popular Destinations

• Japan: 4-hour flight, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
• South Korea: 3.5-hour flight, Seoul, Busan
• Singapore: 4-hour flight, clean, modern city-state
• Bali: 5-hour flight, beaches, culture, wellness

Hong Kong International Airport

• Location: Chek Lap Kok, Lantau Island
• Airlines: Over 100 airlines, Cathay Pacific hub
• Destinations: 220+ destinations worldwide
• Access: Airport Express train (24 min to Central, HK$115), taxi (HK$250-350), bus
• Facilities: Excellent shopping, dining, lounges, transit hotel