The complete guide to moving to Hong Kong

Moving to Hong Kong is an exciting adventure filled with diversity, vibrant energy, and countless opportunities. Located in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong is renowned for its fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, iconic skyscrapers that pierce the sky, lush green hillsides, and a stunning harbour that captivates both day and night. Whether you are drawn to the cosmopolitan vibe of Central, the cultural richness of Kowloon, or the peaceful retreats on the outlying islands, Hong Kong warmly welcomes expatriates in search of new horizons.

At Crown Relocations, we specialise in international moving services and have created a comprehensive guide including essential insights for those considering a move to Hong Kong. Whether your relocation is driven by career aspirations, educational pursuits, retirement goals, or a thirst for adventure, Hong Kong promises a tapestry of experiences that are bound to enrich your life in ways beyond imagination.

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Buying a House in Hong Kong

If you’re contemplating relocating to Hong Kong and embarking on the exciting journey of buying a home, there are some important things you need to know to make your house hunt easier.

Financial eligibility: To secure a mortgage in Hong Kong, you need to be financially stable. Maintaining a good credit history and a stable source of income is vital, as lenders greatly consider your credit score in the mortgage application process. Your financial stability plays a significant role in determining your loan eligibility.

Counting the costs: Owning a property in Hong Kong can be expensive. The cost can change depending on the type of property and where it’s located. You’ll need to think about expenses such as property taxes, legal fees, stamp duty, valuation fees, and estate agent fees.

Property types and locations: Hong Kong has all sorts of properties to choose from, like flats, houses, and apartments. It’s important to carefully assess the location, as different parts of Hong Kong have different lifestyles.

Legal procedures and timeframes: When purchasing a property in Hong Kong, expect to navigate through extensive paperwork and adhere to specific regulations. The process can be time-consuming, particularly when negotiations with sellers are involved. It is important to be prepared for this transaction to potentially take several weeks or even months to reach completion.

Foreign ownership regulations: If you’re a non-Hong Kong resident, acquaint yourself with the foreign ownership regulations specific to Hong Kong. Restrictions may apply to certain property types or locations based on your residency status.

For a successful venture into Hong Kong’s property market, it’s wise to seek guidance from qualified real estate professionals and financial advisors. Their expertise is essential in providing valuable insights, navigating the intricacies of the city’s legal system, and ensuring a seamless property buying experience.

Setting up home

When it comes to settling into your new life, there are various options to consider for your new home, whether you’re looking to rent an apartment or buy a house. Here are the key steps to help you find your ideal home as you make the move to Hong Kong:

Determine your budget and preferences: Before purchasing a home, it’s important to evaluate your financial plan, housing desires, and your preferred location within Hong Kong. Consider elements such as property type, size, and amenities that align with your lifestyle.

Do some research: After you’ve established your housing references, you can kickstart your search for the ideal home in Hong Kong. There are numerous online platforms available to assist you in your search:

Squarefoot: Squarefoot is a well-known platform with an extensive database of properties available for rent and purchase across Hong Kong. It offers comprehensive resources and information about the Hong Kong real estate market, allowing you to filter properties by price, location, and other preferences.
Spacious: Spacious is another valuable online platform that provides a wide range of property listings for both rental and purchase in Hong Kong. It offers a user-friendly search function to help you find properties that match your specific criteria.
GeoExpat: GeoExpat is a popular classifieds website in Hong Kong where you can find various listings, including properties for rent and sale. It’s a useful platform for exploring different housing options.
Weave Living or The Nate: If you’re interested in shared living spaces or accommodations with roommates in Hong Kong, platforms like Weave Living and The Nate can help you find suitable co-living arrangements. These options can be cost-effective and offer a sense of community.

Using online tools and platforms will help you conduct a streamline search for your future residence in Hong Kong, all while ensuring that your housing selections match your personal preferences and financial plan.

Transporting your belongings

Whether you’re relocating to Hong Kong from Australia, or simply moving within the region, our team of seasoned professionals is well-equipped to assist you throughout the entire process. We offer a range of transportation solutions including international pet relocation, ensuring that your furry friends are transported safely and comfortably.

At Crown Relocations, we provide customised sea freight and air freight solutions to accommodate your specific volume and urgency needs. Our sea freight services offer competitive rates, delivering cost-effective solutions for your shipments. Meanwhile, our door-to-door air freight service guarantees swift delivery of essential items, prioritising speed and efficiency.

Our primary goal at Crown Relocations is to provide you with peace of mind during what can be a complex process. We take care of all the logistics, leaving you free to focus on settling into your new life in Hong Kong. With our attention to detail, commitment to quality, and personalised services, you can trust Crown Relocations to safeguard your belongings and facilitate a seamless transition to your new home in this vibrant and dynamic city.

Utilities

In Hong Kong, utilities are the backbone of daily life, efficiently managed to sustain the city’s modern lifestyle. With two major electricity suppliers, the Hong Kong Electric Company (HKE) and the China Light and Power Company (CLP), residents enjoy a reliable and stable power supply. The Water Supplies Department (WSD) provides clean and safe drinking water, meeting international standards. Natural gas, supplied by Towngas, is widely used for cooking and heating.

Hong Kong’s telecommunications sector is highly advanced, offering high-speed internet, mobile services, and cable TV. Waste management is well-organised, with recycling programs and waste-to-energy facilities in place. Getting around the city is made easy with the country’s efficient Mass Transit Railway (MTR), buses, and ferries, ensuring smooth mobility.

With extensive digital services and online conveniences, Hong Kong’s utilities guarantee a high standard of living and convenience for both residents and businesses.

Finances

While the prospect of relocating to Hong Kong may fill you with excitement, it’s equally crucial to understand that effective financial management is the cornerstone of a smooth transition for you and your family. Consider the following key steps:

Open a Bank Account: Prior to your move, research and select a bank in Hong Kong where you can open an account. Having a local bank account will simplify financial transactions and management upon your arrival. Ensure that you have all necessary documents, including identification and proof of address, to complete the account opening process.

Understand Local Banking Regulations: Familiarise yourself with the banking regulations and requirements in Hong Kong. Different banks offer various types of accounts and fee structures, so choose one that aligns with your financial needs and preferences.

Set a Budget: Moving to Hong Kong can involve various expenses, including housing, transportation, utilities, education, groceries, healthcare, and recreational activities. To manage these costs, create a budget that covers one-time expenses like visa fees and initial deposits, along with your regular monthly spending. A well-organised budget will help you manage your finances smoothly.

Monitor Exchange Rates: If you need to transfer funds from your home country to Hong Kong, stay informed about currency exchange rates. Exchange rates can fluctuate, so it’s important to choose the right time to convert your funds. You can use online currency converters or consult financial experts for guidance. For more information, please visit our Foreign Currency Transfer page.

Investigate Taxation and Financial Regulations: To ensure a seamless financial journey, it is important to familiarise yourself with Hong Kong’s tax system and financial regulations. By understanding your tax responsibilities and financial rules, you can proactively navigate any potential challenges that may arise. If you require assistance or clarification on tax matters, don’t hesitate to reach out to local experts or authorities who can offer valuable insights and support.

By adopting this approach to financial management, you’ll set the stage for a smoother transition to Hong Kong. This will give you the confidence to embrace the next exciting chapter in this bustling city, fully prepared for the opportunities that await.

Lifestyle

Getting around

Hong Kong’s efficient and extensive transportation network makes it easy to get around the city. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) serves as the backbone of the city, connecting Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories, offering a quick and reliable way to traverse urban areas.

The city boasts an extensive bus network, iconic trams, and essential ferries that connect Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the Outlying Islands. Taxis are readily available, but there are also various train services, cable cars for scenic trips, and even opportunities for exploration on foot. For those arriving or departing, the Airport Express train offers a hassle-free journey to and from the airport.

With these diverse transportation options, both residents and visitors can easily explore Hong Kong’s bustling streets, vibrant markets, and unique neighbourhoods.

Everyday life

Everyday life in Hong Kong pulses with energy and diversity, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. In this fast-paced metropolis, the multilingual society thrives, reflecting its cosmopolitan nature. The city’s culinary scene is a delight, ranging from humble street food to high-end Michelin-starred restaurants, making dining out a cherished daily ritual. Public transportation, led by the efficient Mass Transit Railway (MTR), eases navigation through urban areas, while small living spaces have encouraged ingenious home design.

With a growing emphasis on work-life balance, residents enjoy their leisure time, often exploring the city’s lush parks and hiking trails. Shopping is a cultural pastime, from bustling street markets to upscale boutiques. Hong Kong’s rich tradition is evident in its vibrant festivals, such as Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival. It’s a city where financial prowess meets stunning skyline views, offering residents and visitors an exhilarating and multifaceted daily experience.

Transport

Can I drive in Hong Kong?

The good news is that you can indeed drive in this bustling metropolis, provided you meet certain criteria and adhere to local traffic rules. Hong Kong extends this privilege to both tourists and residents, allowing them to drive for a limited time if they hold a valid international driving permit (IDP) or a driving licence from their home country.

Hong Kong follows the left-hand driving system, which is advantageous for Australians. However, there are also unique road regulations and traffic signs to consider. So, before embarking on your driving adventure in this vibrant city, make sure to acquaint yourself with the local driving conditions and rules for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Education

School options in Hong Kong

For families considering moving to Hong Kong, there’s a diverse range of school options, making it an appealing destination for families seeking quality education. The city boasts an extensive network of international schools, catering to expatriate communities from around the world. These schools often follow international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British National Curriculum, ensuring a seamless transition for students relocating from abroad.

There are prestigious local schools that provide a rigorous education in Cantonese, giving students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. Whether you prefer an international or local educational experience, Hong Kong has a wealth of options to choose from, ensuring that your child’s academic journey is both enriching and rewarding.

Legal System

The legal system in Hong Kong is renowned for its commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. As a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, Hong Kong maintains a separate and distinct legal system based on English common law traditions. The foundation of this legal system is the Basic Law, a mini-constitution that guarantees a high degree of autonomy, including an independent judiciary.

The Hong Kong legal system is known for its transparency, impartiality, and efficiency, making it a trusted hub for international businesses and dispute resolution. The city’s legal framework provides a robust protection of civil liberties and human rights, contributing to its status as a global financial and commercial centre. However, recent changes in Hong Kong’s legal landscape have sparked concerns about the preservation of its traditional legal principles and freedoms, raising important questions about the future of its legal system.

Employment, Visas and Permits

Securing a job and the necessary visas and permits in Hong Kong is a well-organised process that attracts a diverse expat workforce. Hong Kong offers various visa options for different categories, like skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. The most common is the Employment Visa, which needs sponsorship from a local employer, a confirmed job offer, and relevant qualifications.

Hong Kong’s job market is dynamic, welcoming talent in areas such as finance, tech, and hospitality. Finding employment in Hong Kong is made easier through a variety of job search websites and networking platforms like Linkedin, which connect job seekers with a wealth of opportunities and professional networks in this bustling metropolis. With its low taxes and business-friendly environment, Hong Kong is an appealing career destination. But remember, it’s crucial to navigate the visa process carefully and follow immigration rules to ensure a smooth start to your career in this vibrant global city. For detailed information about available visa types and the application process, visit Hong Kong’s immigration department.

Health

When moving to Hong Kong from Australia, you should familiarise yourself with the healthcare system. Hong Kong boasts a robust and efficient healthcare system that is renowned for its high quality and accessibility. The city employs a dual healthcare system, including both public and private sectors.

The public healthcare system, managed by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, provides affordable and subsidised medical services to residents, ensuring that even those with modest means can access top-notch healthcare. Private healthcare facilities, on the other hand, offer a wide range of specialised services, catering to those who prefer additional amenities and shorter waiting times.

Hong Kong’s healthcare system is known for its well-trained medical professionals, cutting-edge technology, and a strong emphasis on preventive care. While the quality of healthcare is excellent, it’s advisable for expatriates and tourists to have health insurance to cover potential medical expenses, as the public system prioritises residents. Hong Kong’s healthcare system reflects the city’s dedication to the well-being of its population and visitors alike.

Moving to Hong Kong with Crown Relocations

Crown Relocations is a well-established international moving company that specialises in helping individuals and families relocate to various destinations worldwide, including Hong Kong. With our expertise in handling the logistics of international moves, you can expect a reliable and efficient service to assist you in your transition to this vibrant city. Whether you’re moving for work, personal reasons, or any other purpose, Crown Relocations can provide support with packing, shipping, and settling into your new home in Hong Kong, making your move as stress-free as possible.

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