Moving to Hong Kong

Relocating to Hong Kong can be one of the most exciting chapters in your life, and one of the most complex if you’ve never moved internationally before. Whether you’re moving for career advancement, family opportunity, or personal adventure, being well-prepared is key.

At Asian Tigers, we specialize in helping first-time relocators settle confidently. With over 50 years of experience across 14 countries, we guide you through every step, from packing and shipping to customs clearance, storage, and cultural adaptation.

This guide outlines everything you need to know before moving to Hong Kong with the support of a professional moving company you can trust.

Overview

A Global City With a Unique Pulse

Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China with a population of over 7 million. It blends international business with Chinese heritage, offering skyscrapers, markets, temples, and financial towers, all in a walkable, high-density environment.

Why Move to Hong Kong?

• One of Asia’s leading financial and logistics hubs
• Low income tax rates (15% max for individuals)
• Efficient public transport and digital services
• Access to global brands, food, and culture
• A thriving expat community from over 150 countries

Climate & Demographics

• Climate: Subtropical: hot, humid summers and mild winters
• Languages: English and Cantonese are official languages
• Population: ~7.4 million, with a strong international presence

Visa and Immigration Process

Entry & Visa Types

• Visitor Visa: For short-term stays (up to 180 days, depending on nationality)
• Employment Visa (GEP): For professionals with a local job offer
• Investment Visa: For entrepreneurs opening a business
• Training Visa: For short-term assignments or apprenticeships
• Student Visa: For full-time education

Work Permits & Employment Visas

To work legally, your Hong Kong employer must sponsor your Employment Visa. Required documents usually include:

• Employment contract
• Academic qualifications
• Resume and references
• Business registration details from employer

Permanent Residency Pathway

After seven years of continuous ordinary residence, you may apply for the Right of Abode (permanent residency).

Application Process

• Submit via the Immigration Department of Hong Kong
• Standard processing: 4–8 weeks

As part of our complete relocation support, Asian Tigers can connect you with trusted visa professionals to guide the process. We work closely with clients to help ensure the correct documents are prepared, submitted, and followed up, minimizing delays and uncertainty.

Wondering which visa is right for your situation? Ask Cindy, our AI assistant, for personalized guidance.

Cost of Living

Hong Kong consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world. That said, many expats offset the costs with strong salary packages and corporate benefits.

Monthly Budget Estimates

Cost Breakdown

Food & Groceries

• Local meal: HKD 50 – 100
• Western meal: HKD 150 – 300
• Groceries (monthly): HKD 2,500 – 5,000

Transportation

• MTR monthly pass: HKD 500
• Taxi (short trip): HKD 30 – 60
• Ride-sharing: Uber, HK Taxi apps available

Utilities

• Electricity, gas, water (85m² flat): HKD 1,200 – 2,500/month

Miscellaneous

• Gym membership: HKD 600 – 1,200/month
• Mobile/data plan: HKD 150 – 300
• Entertainment (movies, social): HKD 100 – 300/month

Housing and Accommodation

Housing is typically the largest expense in a Hong Kong relocation. Expats can choose from a range of urban apartments, family flats, or even village houses in quieter areas.

Public vs Private Housing

• Public housing: Reserved for permanent residents and low-income locals
• Private sector: Where most expats rent, often with full amenities

Types of Housing

• Apartments / Condos: High-rise, secure, with on-site facilities
• Townhouses / Village Houses: Found in New Territories and outer islands
• Serviced Apartments: Ideal for short-term stays

Renting vs Buying

Most newcomers rent due to the high cost and regulatory complexity of buying property as a non-resident.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

If your housing isn’t ready at move-in, Asian Tigers provides secure, climate-controlled storage options as part of our flexible relocation services. We also support clients in navigating local property options through our home search service, helping you settle into the right neighborhood at the right pace.

Education System

Hong Kong has a strong and competitive education system, with many international schooling options for expat families.

Public vs Private vs International

• Public schools: Use Cantonese as the main language
• Private schools: Bilingual or Mandarin-focused
• International schools: Offer British, American, IB, German, French, and other curricula

Top International Schools

• Hong Kong International School (HKIS)
• Canadian International School
• English Schools Foundation (ESF)
• German Swiss International School
• French International School

Higher Education

• The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
• Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
• Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

School Costs

• Tuition: HKD 120,000–300,000/year
• Corporate packages often include education support

Student Visa

Applications are handled via the school and processed by the Immigration Department. Allow 6–8 weeks.

Choosing the right school is a major part of a successful relocation. Our team can help streamline this process through our school search service, guiding families through options, availability, and admissions in line with your children’s needs.

Cultural Integration and Lifestyle

Hong Kong is a blend of cultures: Chinese traditions, British influence, and modern global perspectives.

Language

• English is widely spoken in business, education, and healthcare
• Cantonese is dominant in local markets and public life
• Learning basic greetings in Cantonese helps with daily interactions

Cultural Norms

• Be punctual and respectful
• Avoid public conflict or loud behavior
• Hierarchies matter, especially in business

Religion & Diversity

• Freedom of religion protected
• Common religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism
• Cultural etiquette varies, learn about local customs when visiting temples or attending events

Festivals & Community Life

• Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb): Fireworks, lion dances
• Mid-Autumn Festival (Sep): Lanterns and mooncakes
• Dragon Boat Festival (Jun): Racing and traditional foods

Expats also celebrate Diwali, Christmas, and Eid, community participation is welcomed.

Tips for Settling In

• Use an Octopus card for transport and daily purchases
• Join community groups or expat clubs
• Mix local markets with international supermarkets
• Take advantage of hiking trails and quick island getaways

Your Next Chapter in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers incredible access to career growth, cultural discovery, and vibrant city living. While it’s fast-paced and highly vertical, it also rewards curiosity, connection, and confidence.

Partnering with an experienced moving company like Asian Tigers ensures you won’t have to navigate the transition alone. Our team of professional movers provides tailored relocation services that extend far beyond shipping, including expert packing, secure storage, customs clearance, and destination support.

Not sure where to start? Chat with Cindy, our AI assistant, for quick answers about moving to Hong Kong.

Contact us to begin your journey.

Let’s get moving.