Hong Kong

Many countries around the world have agreements with Hong Kong that allow their citizens to enter the territory without a visa. Depending on nationality, citizens of visa-free countries will be granted entry to Hong Kong for between seven and 90 days. Those who aren’t eligible for visa-free entry will need to apply for a visit visa at their nearest Chinese embassy.[3]

Expats moving to Hong Kong to take up employment will need a work visa. There are a few different types of work visa, but the General Employment Policy (GEP) visa is the most commonly used. To be eligible for this visa, applicants will need to have a confirmed offer of employment that includes a suitable salary in line with the market standard.[4]

[3] http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/visit-transit/visit-visa-entry-permit.html

[4] http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/GEP.html

Housing in Hong Kong can be expensive, mostly due to the high demand for accommodation outstripping available supply.[5]

Because of limited space, much of the accommodation in Hong Kong is in the form of high-rise apartments, especially in the city center.[6] There’s a variety of newly built luxury and serviced apartments to choose from. Space comes at a premium, though, and rental prices for apartments with more floor space increase at a rapid rate.

There are also older apartment blocks available which are much more spacious and come at a lower cost, but the apartments may be below the standard many expats will expect, and are often situated far from the center of town. Sometimes outlying areas also offer standalone houses, but living in these areas generally requires a lengthy commute into the center of town for work.

The standard lease length is two years, and a deposit of the equivalent of one to three months’ rent is required. Utilities are paid directly by the tenant and, if living in an apartment, there may be an additional expense in the form of building management fees.[7]

[5] http://www.expatarrivals.com/hong-kong/accommodation-in-hong-kong

[6] http://asiabc.co/blog/2015/06/guide-to-renting-an-apartment-in-hong-kong/   

[7] http://www.homenet.com.hk/renting-info/renting-in-hong-kong-faqs

While public education in Hong Kong is offered at no cost and is considered to be of a high standard, teaching is done entirely in Cantonese, making it a somewhat impractical choice for those that don’t speak the language. That said, some public schools in Hong Kong do offer some support to non-Chinese learners.[8] A tailored curriculum is provided for these students, with the aim of an eventual transfer to mainstream Chinese classes. This is a relatively new program, though, and spots are limited as it’s only offered at a few schools.

Most expat parents send their children to international schools. Though often pricey, they offer curricula from countries outside of Hong Kong, and teaching is in the language of the curriculum’s origin.[9] Hong Kong is home to more than 50 international schools, including American, British and French schools. The International Baccalaureate is also commonly offered.[10]

Places at international schools can be limited, and those held in high regard tend to have long waiting lists. For this reason it’s best to get started as early as possible. Most international schools have a rigorous admissions process which may include entrance tests and interviews.

[8] http://www.edb.gov.hk/en/student-parents/ncs-students/about-ncs-students/index.html    

[9] http://www.itseducation.asia/education-system.htm

[10] http://www.edb.gov.hk/en/student-parents/ncs-students/useful-school-list/international-school.html

The climate in Hong Kong is classified as sub-tropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters.[1] Summer runs from May to September, with July and August being the warmest months.

Typhoon season begins in May and ends around November, bringing storms and rough weather to the region.[2] The main effect of nearby typhoons on Hong Kong is heavy rains and high winds. The eye of the storm very rarely hits the island itself, so the storms don’t pose a serious danger, though any government warnings to remain inside should be heeded.

[11] http://www.discoverhongkong.com/us/plan-your-trip/traveller-info/about-hong-kong/climate.jsp

[12] https://www.chinahighlights.com/hong-kong/article-typhoons.htm

Given its history as a British colony, it’s commonly assumed that English is spoken widely and fluently in Hong Kong. Although Cantonese and English have joint official language status, expats may be surprised to find that, beyond the city’s tourist areas, English proficiency can be limited.[13] So those wanting to integrate with locals would do well to take a course in basic Cantonese. Mandarin is spoken by some locals, but it’s primarily associated with mainland China and isn’t nearly as prominent as Cantonese in Hong Kong.

[13] https://www.hongkongfp.com/2015/08/25/only-around-6-of-hongkongers-speak-english-well-hku-study-shows/

Hong Kong’s local cuisine is an intriguing mix of traditional Cantonese food and British influences.[14] Western dishes with a distinct Hong Kong flavor are also a well-loved part of local cuisine, from Hong Kong-style French toast to egg tarts and milk tea (a blend of black teas and sweet milk). Cantonese classics such as pork buns, roast goose and fish balls are also still immensely popular and are easily found throughout Hong Kong.

Today, the city’s position as a global hub is reflected in its widely varied restaurant scene. Cuisines from all over the world are represented, so it shouldn’t be too hard for expats craving a taste of home to find something familiar to satiate their appetite.

[14] http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/hong-kong-food-history/index.html http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/dine-drink/what-to-eat/must-eat/index.jsp

Drinking is a vital part of socializing and doing business in Hong Kong, and it’s important for expats (particularly men) to partake in the rituals. A night out with locals is likely to consist of frequent toasts, usually culminating with “ganbei” – the Chinese equivalent of “cheers”. Its literal meaning is “drink dry”, and everyone is expected to drain their glass after each toast.[15]

The national drink is baiju, a strong and fiery white liquor that shouldn’t be underestimated. Beer, such as the ever-present Tsingtao, is also popular, as is red wine.

[15] https://www.tripsavvy.com/how-to-say-cheers-in-chinese-1458379

Hong Kong’s holidays are reflective of its rich history and religious roots. Most public holidays are traditional Chinese days and are thus based on the lunar calendar – because of this, the exact dates vary from year to year. Christmas and Easter are also celebrated, as are the independence days of China and Hong Kong.[16]

New Year's Day – 1 January

Lunar New Year – January/February*

Good Friday – April/March*

Holy Saturday – April/March*

Easter Monday – April/March*

Ching Ming Festival – April*

Labor Day – 1 May

Buddha's Birthday – May*

Tuen Ng Festival – June*

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day – 1 July

National Day of the People's Republic of China – 1 October

Day after Mid-Autumn Festival – September/October*

Chung Yeung Festival – October*

Christmas Day – 25 December

Boxing Day – 26 December

[17] *Date varies

[16] https://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/holiday/2017.htm

[17] https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/hong-kong/

Though fixed-line usage has dropped in favor of mobile services, landlines are still relatively popular and are a cost-effective way of keeping in touch within Hong Kong, as all local calls are free of charge apart from the subscription fee.

With over 16 million mobile subscribers – more than double its population – Hong Kong has one of the highest mobile penetration rates in the world. There a four major mobile networks: 3 Hong Kong, SmarTone, China Mobile Hong Kong and CSL. Expats can choose between two-year contract packages, which often include a free phone, or pay-as-you-go plans.

Hong Kong has some of the fastest internet speeds in the world and, thanks to the city’s compact size, coverage is comprehensive. Consumers have a choice of over 200 internet service providers, with various types of internet, including fiber and ADSL, on offer.

WiFi hotspots are also prominent and there are more than 40,000 across Hong Kong, including free-to-access government-sponsored hotspots. These can be found at libraries, hotels and onboard the MTR.

The national postal service is Hongkong Post, and it can generally be relied on to deliver post in a fast and efficient manner. International courier companies such as FedEx and DHL also have a presence in the city and are good alternatives.

Widely considered one of the world’s most competitive economies, Hong Kong’s reputation as a financial giant seems here to stay.[20] It follows that most expats moving to the city do so to work in the finance and banking sector, though expats also flock to other strong industries such as education, marketing and media.[21]

One downside of moving to Hong Kong in search of career opportunities is that it can be difficult to secure a job.[22] Competition is tough and expats are advised to try to secure a position in advance of relocating. Recruitment agencies and online job portals are the best way to start a job search. Being able to speak Cantonese is a good way to get a jump on the competition.

Once expats have secured a position, they’ll need to make sure that their salary will cover the high cost of living in Hong Kong, particularly when it comes to the city’s notoriously pricey accommodation.

[20] http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/economy/article/2096456/hong-kong-crowned-worlds-most-competitive-economy

[21] https://www.go-globe.hk/blog/hong-kong-expats/

[22] http://www.expatarrivals.com/hong-kong/working-in-hong-kong

Those working in Hong Kong will be pleased to know that the city enjoys some of the lowest income tax rates in the world. Income tax is charged progressively from 2 to 17%, with generous tax-free allowances for family needs, self-education and investing in retirement funds.[24]

[24] https://home.kpmg.com/xx/en/home/insights/2011/12/hong-kong-income-tax.html

Most expats in Hong Kong move there to pursue career advancement rather than retire, and due to the city’s high cost of living, it’s not a typical retirement destination. That said, those who can afford it will be living out their golden years in a prosperous city that’s a great base for regional travel.

There isn’t a specific visa for retiring in Hong Kong, so expats wanting to do so will have to plan in advance. The first option is to attain permanent residency status by living in the city for at least seven years, usually on a work-related visa. The second option is for expats to make a sizeable investment into a local business, thus becoming eligible for an investment-based visa.[25] 

[25] http://www.retireinasia.com/visa-requirements-to-retire-in-hong-kong/

Understanding appropriate business conduct in Hong Kong is a vital aspect of establishing good connections. The city’s business culture is rather formal, and this is reflected in business dress which tends to be smart and conservative.[26]

As with social interactions, “face” plays an important part in business dealings. To negotiate successfully, a “hard sell” technique should be avoided. Subtlety and nuance are the best way to proceed in order to avoid offence and loss of face. For the same reason, also bear in mind that local business partners tend not to answer directly, especially if the answer is “no”.

They’re much more likely to say that the idea should wait until another time, or that it will be difficult to implement. Similarly, “yes” doesn’t necessarily mean agreement has been reached – often, it’s simply an acknowledgment of having heard what’s been said. [27]

Business cards should have English on one side and Cantonese on the other. “Classic” Chinese characters should be used, as opposed to “simplified” characters. When giving or receiving business cards, do so with both hands, and offer them with the Chinese side up. Business cards should be treated with care and shouldn’t be written on or shoved directly into a pocket.

[26] http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_hk.htm

[27] http://www.commisceo-global.com/country-guides/hong-kong-guide

Hong Kong has an excellent public transport infrastructure, with the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) being its backbone.[28] Serving more than 80 stations, the MTR is clean, fast, and connects all of the main islands, as well as providing a network of on-island transport. Areas not covered by the MTR usually have bus, minibus or tram services available, and taxis are another affordable and convenient option. Outlying islands can be reached via ferry. [29]

Needless to say, it’s not necessary to own a car in Hong Kong, and the cost of parking and maintaining a vehicle in the city is somewhat off-putting, but those who do intend to drive will need to convert to a local license.[30] Nationals of certain countries can do this without needing to take a local drivers’ test, while others need to apply for a temporary Hong Kong license on arrival and take the test within three months.

[28] https://www.hongkong.net/transportation

[29] https://www.expatarrivals.com/hong-kong/transport-and-driving-in-hong-kong%20http://www.hongkong.net/transportation

[30] https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/licences_and_permits/driving_licences/how_to_apply_for_a_driving_licence/driving_in_hong_kong_for_overseas_driving_licence_/index.html

The official currency of Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD), subdivided into 100 cents.

The following denominations are available:

• Notes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 500 and 1,000 HKD
• Coins: 10, 20 and 50c, and 1, 2, 5 and 10 HKD

As one of the world’s most prominent financial hubs, it goes without saying that expats in Hong Kong have easy access to a sophisticated and efficient banking system. Services are generally available in English as well as Cantonese, and it’s easy to open a bank account – to do so, expats simply need their passport and proof of address.

A number of international banks have a strong presence in Hong Kong, and there are also several good local options. The top banks in the city are HSBC, Bank of China, Hang Seng Bank, CitiBank and Standard Chartered Hong Kong. [31]

[31] https://transferwise.com/gb/blog/opening-a-bank-account-in-hong-kong

Hong Kong is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most expensive cities, alongside other pricey destinations like Singapore, Tokyo and Zurich.[32] For the most part, Hong Kong’s soaring property prices are behind its high cost of living, with accommodation taking up anywhere from 25 to 50% of the average salary.

That said, low income taxes relieve some of the financial burden and excellent public transport is available at a low price. Expats with kids can school their children for free if they choose the public system, or will otherwise have to fork out for international school fees.

Thanks to the proximity of China, clothes and electronics are cheap, and provided that one shops locally, grocery bills aren’t too high. On the other hand, the cost of buying imported Western goods stacks up fast.[33]

[32] https://mobilityexchange.mercer.com/Portals/0/Content/Rankings/rankings/col2017a986532/index.html

[33] https://www.expatarrivals.com/asia-pacific/hong-kong/cost-living-hong-kong