Relocating to Hong Kong means settling into a new and unfamiliar home and culture. This can be difficult, especially when moving overseas for the first time. Barriers that aren’t planned for can hold you back from enjoying your time and experience in Hong Kong. Here are some of our tips to help you settle in to your new life in Hong Kong sooner.
Get your information in order
Planning is one of the easiest ways to start getting settled into a new home. The Hong Kong government have put together a handbook guide to help those relocating to their community settle in sooner. You can access the handbook here.
The first thing you’ll need to do when you arrive in Hong Kong is get yourself an identity card which will be required to prove yourself as a Hong Kong resident. You should keep the card in good condition and carry it with you at all times, which is a statutory requirement for persons aged 15 or over.
It’s also a good idea to save emergency contact numbers to your phone should you need then. For police, fire or ambulance calls, dial 999.
Organise your housing
Housing in Hong Kong is some of the most expensive in the world with prices pushed higher due to a lack of space in the country. You can choose to own an apartment or rent a flat when you first settle in Hong Kong.
There are a number of rights and responsibilities you are entitled to as a tenant of a domestic rental property. For more information on how to find the right rental property for you, read the Hong Kong government’s information here.
If you’re buying a domestic property, the government also provides handy information and tips to ensure you meet all legal requirements of purchasing property. You can find that information here.
Employment and taxation
Once you are employed or hold an office, you will be charged tax on your income that is earned in Hong Kong. If you carry on a trade, business or profession in Hong Kong, you have to apply for a business registration and you will be charged tax on all profits made in the country. For more information on taxation in Hong Kong, click here.
Navigating the transport system
Hong Kong is home to one of the most comprehensive and sophisticated transport networks in the world. Public transport services include a wide reaching train network and buses. Taxis, ferries and trams also provide services. For more information on transport in Hong Kong and how to obtain your driver’s license, visit the Transport Department’s website.
Healthcare and social services
Both public and private healthcare options exist in Hong Kong. Public healthcare is easily accessed and is usually free or low cost. There are a number of private hospitals and medical services provided by the private healthcare sector. The government’s health adviser and agency, the Department of Health, regulates all private hospitals and medical clinics registered under the Medical Clinics Ordinance.
There are also a number of social services available for new arrivals. These services include familiarisation courses, employment seminars, language classes, experience sharing and visits, offered by the government and non-governmental organisations.
Education
Education and support exists for children moving to Hong Kong as well, helping them to integrate and settle into the country’s education system. For help enrolling your children into the Hong Kong education system, visit the Education Bureau’s website for non-Chinese speaking students here, and Chinese speaking students here.
Relax
Most importantly, remember to relax and be open minded about the experience. Enjoy your time in Hong Kong and do as the locals do. Try new foods, take the time to learn the language and visit the popular tourist spots. Get involved in social community clubs or sporting teams to meet new people who will be able to help you experience the best of Hong Kong. Don’t be afraid to ask for tips or helps along the way and always expect the unexpected.
If you have any further questions or require any information about moving to Hong Kong, contact your dedication Grace Mobility Specialist who can provide helpful destination services to help you and your family settle into Hong Kong.
