getting settled
YOUR ARRIVAL CHECKLIST
Everything you need to know to settle in Hong Kong
Internet When it comes to a home Internet service, check who services your address. PCCW is the most widely available and therefore also the most pricey; other Internet providers such as Hong Kong Broadband (HKBN) and i-cable are cheaper and reliable, but might not be available for your building.
Banking It is said that Hong Kong has more banks per square mile than any other city in the world. Most banks offer the same type of generic services such as current, savings, time deposit and payroll accounts. Credit and debit cards are widely used. Cheques are not often accepted in high-street shops and supermarkets, but can be used to pay for utilities and to settle bills with smaller companies or individuals. HSBC, Standard Chartered, Citibank, Hang Seng and Bank of China are the most popular banks in Hong Kong and are therefore the ones with the most branches and ATMs.
Bank note As a general rule, you’ll need the following to open an account: Photo by: Graham Uden
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ynamic Hong Kong, with its iconic, skyscraper-studded skyline, continues to lure expats to its shores. As one of Asia’s most vibrant shopping and business hubs, it epitomises urban hustle and bustle and yet, even on the Island, you’re never far away from a sandy beach or a green hiking trail. We appreciate that the city can also be overwhelming for newcomers, so here are a few admin essentials to help you get started on the Hong Kong chapter of your life.
Hong Kong ID Card Everyone in Hong Kong aged 11 or over is required to hold a Hong Kong ID card. If you’re planning to stay for longer than six months, an application must be made within 30 days of landing. Online appointments are recommended before you go in person to the Immigration Office. Details of the process and the five locations where applications are processed can be found on the Immigration Department’s website: immd.gov.hk Remember to take: • Passport • Valid visa • Completed application form You should keep your ID on you, as Hong Kong police have the authority to stop and demand identity checks from anyone at any time.
8 | New Arrivals' Guide
Did you know Heung Gong in Cantonese means “fragrant harbour”.
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Cards are fitted with a smart chip and can be used as a library card. Once your fingerprint has been registered to the chip, you can also use your HKID for quick immigration access via the e-Channel in and out of Hong Kong International Airport and Macau.
Mobile networks The cheapest way to stay connected in Hong Kong is to buy a local SIM card. You’ll need a phone that is unlocked. Your home network will be able to tell you whether your device is locked, and if so it only takes a simple trip to a mobilephone shop to unlock it. You can buy a SIM card from any mobile-phone shop or pop into a 7-Eleven. You will need to top it up with vouchers when your credit runs out. All networks come with English-language instructions for registration. Once you’re more settled, move onto a tariff with one of Hong Kong’s major networks. The biggest is China Mobile, followed by 3, CSL, PCCW Mobile and SmartTone Vodafone.
Your official ID, such as your passport or HKID Card. Proof of address, such as a utility bill, a bank statement or a mobile phone bill. Proof of your home address, if you don’t have a Hong Kong address. A valid visa.
You might also need to show your work contract or an official letter confirming your employment. If you’re a student, you’ll need an official letter from your university or education institution in Hong Kong, confirming your registration as a full-time student.
Did you know You might incur a service charge if you use an ATM belonging to a different bank to your own, although some have reciprocal terms, i.e., HSBC cardholders can use Hang Seng ATMs and vice versa at no charge. Alternatively, join a bank linked to Jetco (Joint Electronic Teller Services), which allows users access to the ATMs of all member banks. Just look out for the Jetco logo.