Preparing for your move to Hong Kong can be a busy and exciting time. Here we summarise a few of the main things that you’ll be thinking about.
Deciding where to live
Hong Kong is an easy place to travel around with an excellent public transport system and road network. It’s also a region of contrasts from the beaches, to the hills, to the bustling city. This leaves you with plenty of choice when deciding where to live.
We recommend considering the following:
- What type of experience do you want? If you’re looking for city-life then consider living on the north side of Hong Kong Island or in Kowloon. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed style of living then the New Territories may suit you and your family better.
- What is your budget for accommodation? Property prices vary considerably. The price that you will pay for a modest apartment around somewhere like Hong Kong Central or Wan Chai could equally afford you a large family home with garden further out of the city areas.
- What school are you looking at for your child? Because there is strong competition for places at good schools in Hong Kong, many families choose their child’s school before choosing where they will live.
What to bring
As a centre for international trade and shipping, shipping your worldly belongings out to Hong Kong with you is relatively straightforward. However, as a centre of manufacturing, and with strong influences from the East and the West, you can also find anything you need in Hong Kong. Major global brands from the high street tend to have stores in Hong Kong too.
Paperwork
You will need to have arranged for your work permit or visa before you travel to Hong Kong. Visit the website of the Immigration Department for Hong Kong to find out more, including information on the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card held by all those with right of abode in Hong Kong.