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An expat’s guide to Hong Kong
Situated on the south-eastern tip of China, on the Pearl River delta and the South China Sea, Hong Kong is renowned as a diverse and fast-paced destination. This small, 405 square-mile location is home to a population of 7,347,000 and comprises 262 islands, including Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Lantau Island, plus the New Territories. You’ll find a mixture of stunning landscapes, vibrant business centres, and wonderful natural surroundings, as well as contemporary culture and leisure facilities centres.
Trade has always flourished here, and a recent report published by the World Bank highlights the business potential that exists in the peninsula. Currently Hong Kong ranks fifth on the World Bank list of the easiest places in the world to do business — by comparison, mainland China is placed 78th. Classified as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) by the Chinese government, this former British colony only came under China’s rule in 1997.
A 99-year lease between the UK and the People’s Republic of China - signed in 1898 under the 2nd Peking Convention — expired in 1997, and it was time to hand back the former colony to the mainland government. Hong Kong is governed by the principle of one country, two systems. This means that while China holds sovereignty, Hong Kong has an independent judiciary and its own head of government. Because of this policy, the SAR follows a different set of rules from anywhere else in China. The culture of Hong Kong offers a mixture of ancient Chinese tradition alongside some of the most innovative businesses, housing and transport links in the world.
The health system is easy to navigate and, with a large expat community, finding somewhere to live close to good schools, is relatively easy, though sometimes expensive.
Moving overseas isn’t always about business, and taking time to explore your new environment is part of the fun. From the SAR’s magnificent Tian Tan Buddha statue nestling in the scenic hills of Lantau Island to its dramatic coastline, parts of Hong Kong can be compared with the most beautiful places on the planet. This place really is a cornucopia of contrasts.1
Health and health care in Hong Kong
How easy is it to relocate to Hong Kong to live and work? Find out how to go about finding a job and skills that are in demand.
Vaccinations for moving to Hong Kong
Before you travel always ensure that your vaccinations are up to date and that you follow the guidelines set out by your healthcare practitioner.
Cost of living in Hong Kong
If you’re considering a long-term relocation to Hong Kong, addressing the financial needs of you and your family is an essential part of your planning.
Visas for relocating to Hong Kong
Before you consider making the move to Hong Kong, it’s wise to check out the visa and immigration guidance.
Finding work in Hong Kong
There are numerous opportunities to find work in Hong Kong, particularly if you happen to be multilingual.
Business etiquette in Hong Kong
Business culture is more formal in Hong Kong than in many other parts of the world. Our guide will help you to easily navigate the world of work in the region.
Choosing your new home in Hong Kong
Sorting out where to live may be one of the most exciting challenges of your move to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong: Where to live
Although Hong Kong is small compared to many locations favoured among expatriates, there is still a diversity of areas, from sand and sea to high-rise metropolises.
A guide to well-being in Hong Kong
Life in Hong Kong can result in stress, but there’s plenty you can do to keep it at bay.
Getting to know Hong Kong
There’s plenty to know about Hong Kong and there’s no doubt it’s a region that you’ll easily learn to love.
Hong Kong’s culture and lifestyle
As Hong Kong has existed as a trading colony for centuries, it’s not surprising that so many cultures have left their mark on the peninsular…
