"*" indicates required fields
Moving To Hong Kong
Our reliable International moving makes Relocating to Hong Kong Easy for You. Start your move to Hong Kong by getting a free moving quote.
Comprehensive Guide on Moving to Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a coastal island near China. It operates under the country but has several special provisions. Being the sixth-highest GDP in the world, Hong Kong invites expats from all over the world. It houses many multinational companies working in tech, advertising, HR, finance and more. With promises of lavish city life close to nature, Hong Kong is in the top ten immigration spots.
Are you looking to move to Hong Kong? Or searching for a moving company in Hong Kong?
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the country, how you can move there, the costs involved and everything else in between.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Capital | Brussels |
| Population | 1.16 crores Approx |
| Official Languages | German, Dutch, and French |
| Currency | Euro |
| Popular Cities | Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges |
Benefits of relocating to Hong Kong
The following are the benefits of moving to Hong Kong:
- Experience a vibrant culture
- Tremendous opportunities for education
- Top-class public transportation system
- A huge expat society
- Plenty of fun things to do and see
- One of the safest places in the world
- Plenty of natural landscapes
- Free Economy
To make your moving to Hong Kong as stress-free as possible. we are a top moving company in Hong Kong, contact us!
How To Move To Hong Kong
Now that you have made up your mind to move to Hong Kong, there are some things related to your move that you should understand. First things first, you would need a visa to move there [we will discuss that in the next topic] and next, you would need movers and packers in Hong Kong to help you move your belongings.
At ISS, we shoulder that task for you so you need to worry about one less thing while relocating. Our team is highly qualified and would carry out the process without any bumps in the way.
Move To Hong Kong Visa's Requirements
Visitors from over 145 countries may visit Hong Kong without a visa or a work permit for a period ranging from 7 to 180 days. But if you are looking for storage in Hong Kong, it means you want to relocate to Hong Kong, so you will need a visa based on your travel reasons.
- List of Visas
Following is a list of visas on which you can visit Hong Kong:
– Work Visa
A work visa is a type of visa that allows you to enter a country based on work. You would need to have a job offer from a Hong Kong company to apply for this visa. You will have to fill out the application along with the required documents but your employer needs to fill out a form as well to help you get this type of visa. You can contact us for warehousing in Hong Kong.
– Student Visa
This type of visa is for people who are looking to move to Hong Kong to study. To apply for this visa, you need to have an acceptance letter from a qualified educational institute in Hong Kong. You will have to fill out the application form along with the required documents and then submit it at the visa centre.
– Investment Visa
The investment visa is a type of visa for individuals who are looking to come to the island of Hong Kong to establish a business. This is a very scrutinized process and may take longer as you would need to detail almost every aspect of your business.
You may not even get this visa if your business will focus on the existing markets in Hong Kong. If you have a unique idea, your chances of getting an investment visa are higher. If you are looking for storage units in Hong Kong, get in touch with us!
- Documents Needed
Following are the documents needed for the application of a visa for Hong Kong based on the type of visa you are applying for:
Work Visa
– Your recent photograph
– Proof of your address overseas
– Valid documents required for travel such as a passport
– Copy of your academic qualifications
– A copy of your employment contract and letter of appointment from your employer
– Documents about the background of the company where you are hired, their services and products / operations
Student Visa
– Your recent photograph
– Acceptance letter from the education institute in Hong Kong
– Copy of your ID card from that institution
– Valid documents required for travel such as a passport
– Copy or proof of your accommodation in Hong Kong
– Copy or proof of your financial soundness such as bank statements
– Scores in tests like IELTS or TOEFL
– If you are under 18, you would need a guardian or a sponsor along with a consent letter signed by both your parents.
Investment Visa
– Your recent photograph
– Valid documents required for travel such as a passport
– Copy or proof of your accommodation in Hong Kong
– Copy or proof of your financial soundness such as bank statements
– Proof of your address overseas
– A detailed two-year business plan that explains all your planned business activities, your investment funding, possible job creation in Hong Kong, establishing warehouses or offices in Hong Kong and the documentation for all of these.
– Copy of your Business Registration Certificate related to the registration of your business or company.
We, ISS believe that the satisfaction of the clients is the only way towards success. If you are looking for local moving company in Hong Kong, we provide impeccable services that would take a tonne of the burden off your shoulders.
- Fees
| Type of Visa | Fees |
|---|---|
| Work visa | HKD 190 |
| Student visa | HKD 190 |
| Investment visa | HKD 190 |
- How To Apply ?
Following is the process to apply for a visa for Hong Kong:
– The first step is to identify the type of visa you want for your relocation to Hong Kong.
– Once you have that down, you need to get the application form for the visa you are applying for, online or at the office.
– Read the form and the requirements at least twice before filling out any details.
– Fill out the application form carefully and recheck everything you have written in that form.
– Attach all the documents required.
[Note: if the documents are in any language other than English or Chinese, the applicant will have to get them translated and attach the translated version to the visa application]
– Next, fill out the consent form [if any] and add it to your application.
– If you have any spouse or children under 18 dependents on you, you need to fill out their visa form as well under the dependent visa.
– Apply and pay all the fees for the form and the service.
– Wait for the results [Note: you can even track the process of your visa application if you like] which may come within 4 to 8 weeks after submission.
Cost Of Relocate To Hong Kong
When you are moving to Hong Kong the cost of relocation will include the visa fees, travel costs, the cost of a Hong Kong mover and a lot more. It also depends on your requirements. Nevertheless, the following are some of the general costs you must expect to cover when moving to Hong Kong:
| Type of Expense | Cost on Average |
|---|---|
| Visa | HKD 190 per person |
| Accommodation [3-bed apartment, not including deposits taxes and fees] | HKD 45,000 per month |
| School | HKD 106,500 per year + HKD 10,000 deposit |
| Pet registration [you can contact us for pet relocation to Hong Kong] | HKD 432 + HKD 102 for every additional pet |
Housing & Warehousing In Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of the most developed economies in the world but as compared to the other leading economies, it is quite cheaper. Nevertheless, finding decent accommodation within your budget can be a difficult task for expats. In case, you have not finalized on a home before moving, we also provide warehousing in Hong Kong for your belongings.
Housing costs and bills in Hong Kong vary depending on the size and location of your housing. If you are looking for a three-bed apartment, the price range can go easily over HKD 100,000 per month in the posh areas. But if you are looking for affordable housing, you can find a decent home at around HKD 30,000.
The areas such as Mid-Levels in Hong Kong are popular among expats with young children because of their proximity to schools and other expat communities. Another such area is Discovery Bay. In these areas, you can easily find a housing facility for around HKD 40,000 to 50,000 per month for a three-bed apartment.
The prices mentioned here do not include rent deposits, management fees or any kind of taxes. And if you have not found a housing facility yet, we can help you store your belongings in storage units in Hong Kong.
Here is a table for a better understanding:
| Type of Apartment | Cost on Average |
|---|---|
| Studio apartment | HKD 10,000 – 15,000 |
| One-bed apartment | HKD 12,000 – 20,000 |
| Two-bed apartment | HKD 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Three-bed apartment | HKD 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Buying a one-bed apartment | HKD 5,000,000 – 8,000,000 |
| Buying a two-bed apartment | HKD 6,500,000 – 10,000,000 |
| Buying a three-bed apartment | HKD 11,200,000 – 36,000,000 |
| Buying a home | HKD 10,000,000 – 90,000,000 |
HealthCare System In Hong Kong
It would be true to say that Hong Kong has proven world-class healthcare facilities. It has come a long way in terms of healthcare developments. Hong Kong even scored the first position in the Bloomberg Health-Efficiency Index worldwide in 2018. Considering that was before the pandemic, it is safe to say they have only grown more.
One good news for all the expats looking to move to Hong Kong is that Hong Kong offers subsidies in its healthcare system. Meaning anyone who has a smart ID card in Hong Kong can use these facilities for free or for nominal fees. This smart card can be held by both residents and non-residents alike. So, if you are an expat in Hong Kong, you should apply to get this card which will cut all your insurance and healthcare costs.
Note: dentistry is not covered in this subsidy scheme but you should get insurance for that because otherwise, it can be pretty expensive.
Taxation In Hong Kong
The tax laws of Hong Kong state have relatively lower levels of tax as compared to the other developed countries. The income taxes applied to the workers in Hong Kong can be divided into two following categories:
Progressive rates start from 2 per cent and up to 17 per cent for workers earning more than HKD 135,000 per year.
A standard rate of 15%
You need to pay for one of those categories whichever is lower. You need to do your tax assessment by yourself and the total tax can be paid in two installments in January and April.
Education In Hong Kong
If you are taking your kids to Hong Kong with you as dependents, you would not only need movers in Hong Kong but also need to know about the education system beforehand. To enrol your kid in a decent school, you should expect to pay around HKD 106,500 per annum (Primary Year 1-2) plus a deposit of HKD 10,000.
Work Market In Hong Kong
Once you have settled into your new home with the help of international movers in Hong Kong, the next step in the process is the work market.
What is the local job market like in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong being a hub for commerce and industries offers ample job opportunities to both its residents and expats. But, since the number of expats living in Hong Kong is very high, the competition is quite fierce.
Salary to expect as an expat
If you have a few years of work experience under you, you can land a pretty good salary in Hong Kong. The minimum wage on the island is HKD 37.5 but the average salary is much higher at HKD 19,000 for men and HKD 15000 for women.
Best Cities To Living In Hong Kong
Following are some of the best areas to live in Hong Kong:
Mid-Levels
Mid-levels is the #1 neighbourhood to live in Hong Kong. It is divided into three areas each a bit different from the other. You will find the most spacious apartments in this area and it is quite close to some of the major international schools in Hong Kong as well.
The Peak
The second-best area to live in Hong Kong is The Peak. You will find all different kinds of homes in this area and it is also close to the hiking trails. Summers in Hong Kong can be a little rough but the temperature at The Peak is relatively better.
Pok Fu Lam
The third spot on the list of best areas in Hong Kong is taken by Pok Fu Lam. It is one of the oldest areas and is located in the western corner. It is equidistant from the beaches and the central station so you do not miss out on the fun part of Hong Kong.
FAQs
1. What visas do I need to relocate to Hong Kong?
You can relocate to Hong Kong on a work visa, a student visa or an investment visa.
2. Can I move my family with me to Hong Kong?
Yes. You need to apply for a dependent visa for your spouse and children under 18 to move them with you to Hong Kong. You will also need house movers in Hong Kong to help you move your and your family’s belongings.
3. Do I need an immigration agent?
You do not need an immigration agent per se. But they would make your moving process a lot easier by taking on the major tasks. Nevertheless, the immigration process can also be undertaken by you.
4. What will ISS help me with?
ISS will help you with Hong Kong relocation services making your move to the island as eventless as possible. You can trust our highly qualified team to help you move to Hong Kong.
5. Is it easy to get a job in Hong Kong?
It is not easy to get a job in any country. You have to fight the competition and prove your worth to get the job. If you have some work experience in professional fields, you are more likely to get a job package with a good salary.
6. Is healthcare expensive in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong provides free [or for nominal fees] healthcare to all smart card holders. But if you want to go to a private healthcare facility, the costs can be high. In that case, your health insurance in Hong Kong will cover the costs.
7. How long does it take to get the visa results?
For a Hong Kong visa, you need to wait 4 to 6 weeks to get the results of your visa application.
8. How to find a moving company in Hong Kong?
Right here! At ISS we will take care of all your belongings and move them to Hong Kong for you without any difficulties. Get in touch with us now.
