So you've packed your boxes, set a moving date, and you're ready to start a new chapter in Hong Kong. Before you take off, it's best to get your ducks in a row and take care of everything you can while you're still in your current location. This way, your transition into your new life in Hong Kong will be a breeze. We've put together a list of things to help you out along the way.
Once you've settled in and are ready for an adventure, Hong Kong's excellent transport system allows you to explore the city effortlessly. The city boasts a well-connected MTR and public transport system which includes buses, trams, ferries, and minibuses known as "Siu Ba" by locals. Taxis are also affordable and plentiful and run until the early hours of the morning. Navigating the city couldn't be easier! You can find more information about public transport in Hong Kong by clicking the link, or check out a list of travel apps to help you get around.
If you're considering driving a car in Hong Kong, and if your driving licence was issued by any of these approved countries or places, you can easily apply for direct issue of a Hong Kong full driving licence without taking a test. To qualify, your driving licence must be valid or has not expired for more than 3 years, and must have been obtained by passing a driving test held in the issuing place. You should also fulfill one of the following three requirements: (i) the licence was originally issued to you on any date during a period of residence of not less than 6 months in the country or place of issue; (ii) the licence has been issued to you for not less than 5 years immediately prior to the application; or (iii) you hold a passport or an equivalent travel document issued in the country or place in which your licence was issued.
To apply for a direct issue of a Hong Kong full driving licence, simply fill in a TD63A application form, submit it together with required documents and fees to the Hong Kong Licensing Office of the Transport Department (TD), and you'll soon be issued with the driving licence and be ready to hit the road.
If your driving licence was not issued by one of the recognised countries or places specified by the Transport Department, you can apply for a temporary driving licence which is subject to, among other things, your having applied for a driving test within 3 months after the date of arrival in Hong Kong to take up residence, in order to drive in Hong Kong before obtaining a Hong Kong full driving licence.
If you cannot exchange your driver's licence, you will need to take a driving test. To apply for a driving test, complete a TD82 form and submit it along with required documents, such as your HKID card and proof of address, and fees to the Hong Kong or Kowloon Licensing Office of TD. The driving test in Hong Kong comprises a multiple-choice written test and a road test, similar to many other places.
Upon receiving a valid driving licence in Hong Kong, you may consider purchasing your own car and you’ll need to obtain a vehicle licence. To apply for vehicle licences, you must, first of all, complete the relevant application forms online, or at the enquiry counter of any of the Licensing Offices of the Transport Department, the Home Affairs Department Public Enquiry Service Centres, or Post Offices. After you have completed the application form, forward it, together with relevant supporting documents and the appropriate fee to the licensing offices concerned.
The public healthcare system in Hong Kong is known for its affordability and high quality, with hospital stays costing as low as HK$100-120 (US$13-15.50) per day and a minimal admission fee of HK$75 (US$9.55) for HKID holders. Moreover, in 2019, the HKSAR government introduced a Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) policy initiative, which provides universal coverage to both expats and locals who wish to avail of private healthcare services.
Enrolling in the right healthcare scheme is essential. For non-locals, there are certified plans available from different insurance companies. Top-tier insurance providers like AIA International, AXA, Blue Cross, Bupa, Prudential, and Sun Life offer VHIS plans that can be compared on the Consumer Corner section of the vhis.gov.hk website to find the best deal for you and your family. Once you become a Hong Kong resident, subscribing to VHIS not only offers universal coverage but also a tax reduction.
To live and work in Hong Kong, you’ll also need to open a Hong Kong bank account. As a banking and finance hub, there are many options to choose from, with more than 250 banks based in the city.
If it's your first bank account in Hong Kong, you shall not be able to open it online due to the country’s strict anti-money laundering rules – but there are exceptions. If your home bank has branches in both your home country and Hong Kong, like HSBC and Citibank for example, you may be able to open your account remotely. Otherwise, it's necessary to visit a local bank branch and set up the account in person.
The process is straightforward. Don’t forget to bring along your passport, HKID, proof of address such as a utility bill, bank statement, or even a mobile phone bill, and your home country's address proof if you haven't yet settled in Hong Kong. In addition, you’ll also need to show a valid working visa, work contract or letter of employment. Note that most banks charge a monthly account maintenance fee ranging from HK$50 to HK$150, if the account holder does not meet the minimum account balance, generally around HK$10,000.
For more information about opening personal and business accounts at 20 major retail banks in Hong Kong, check out the list by Hong Kong Monetary Authority.
Proper planning is crucial for a seamless move, which is why it's essential to sort out your driver’s licence, health insurance, and bank account remotely before the big move. This way, you can focus on immersing yourself in the local culture and customs and becoming a legitimate resident of Hong Kong. Embrace the city's unique atmosphere and make the most of your experience!
The information provided is for reference only and is subject to periodic updates. For the latest information, please visit the relevant website.