When you decide to move to Hong Kong, you usually need a lot of preparation, especially if you are moving internationally. It is an extremely modern city and moving there can be very exciting and the beginning of an incredible phase in your life. On the other hand, it can be stressful, especially if you have never visited Hong Kong before. Hiring reliable movers Hong Kong can be helpful and will make your preparations and your moving day easier. But, if you are still anxious and don’t know what you should do on your first day there, there is no need. We will explain what things you’re going to need on your first day in Hong Kong and you will be well-prepared when you get there.
What is the best time of the year to move to HK and what things you will need?
Some things you will need on your first day in Hong Kong are basic, and you will need them no matter the time you decide to move there. But, there are also some items you need to pack depending on the part of the year you choose for your relocation. Moving in Spring generally should be avoided because this is the most unpredictable season in Hong Kong. The temperatures vary between 64 and 82 Fahrenheit, so you will need different types of clothes with you because you don’t know what to expect. You need light clothes for warm days, but at the same time, you need an umbrella for heavy rains. In addition to that, this time of the year is often foggy, so it may ruin some of your plans.
When moving in summer, you need similar items. Your first-day essential bag needs summer clothes and an umbrella. It gets really hot in summer, over 87 degrees, but there can also be heavy rains and typhoons. Autumn and winters are the perfect seasons for moving to Hong Kong. The only difference is in temperature. In autumn, it is 66 – 82 degrees Fahrenheit, while in winter it doesn’t go above 66 F. However, it is sunny and without precipitation. If possible, when relocating to Hong Kong, choose one of these two seasons. At least you won’t have to worry about the weather and there won’t be many things you’re going to need on your first day in Hong Kong when it comes to clothes.
What are the things you’re going to need on your first day in Hong Kong?
Apart from necessary clothes that can vary depending on the time you move, there are also some things you will need regardless of the season. No matter how well-prepared you can be and how well you have researched the area, everything that happens on the first day in your new city can be overwhelming. Make sure you have all the things you need and read some tips for a stress-free relocation in Hong Kong. Those things include:
- necessary documents;
- money (cash or cards);
- transportation card or tickets.
Documents you will need when you arrive in Hong Kong
Apart from a passport and identification card, a visa is the most important document you will need when moving to Hong Kong. Visa-free entry is available to nationals of roughly 170 countries and territories, who can stay in Hong Kong for stays that range from 7 to 180 days. However, if you plan on staying there for longer than 6 months, you will need a visa and you are most likely to get it if you are relocating for a job. Of course, you will need a job already waiting for you if you want to apply for this visa and you need to do it under the General Employment Policy, otherwise, it won’t be valid. Once you get this visa, you can even bring your family (children and your partner) without additional permission.
If you are a student and you want to complete your education in Hong Kong, it is possible to get a student visa. You must submit official documentation before and after submitting your application for this visa if you intend to study in Hong Kong. Examples of these documents include a letter of admission from the institution, proof that you have the money to cover their stay-related living costs as well as the cost of tuition.
What currency can you use?
Of course, on your first day in your new city, you will need to use money. The Hong Kong Dollar is the currency used (HKD). Because of the poor exchange rate at the airport, just change enough money there to bring you into the city. For Americans visiting Hong Kong, $10 in HK is equivalent to $1.30 in USD. Therefore, you’ll need to withdraw close to HK $800 from the ATM for every USD 100 you anticipate spending in the city. It is possible to use a credit card, but sometimes there can be a problem with some machines accepting it, so it is good to have some cash, just in case. Once you settle, the best solution is to open an account there.
How to use the transport?
Mass Transit Railway is the fastest and the most convenient way of traveling. The best way to use it is to get an Octopus Card. In essence, an Octopus Card is similar to a prepaid card that enables you to tap in at the MTR entry rather than having to pay for each journey separately. Your card will be instantly debited for the ride’s cost by the system. Another benefit of this card is the fact that you can use it in shops, movie theaters, and supermarkets.
Use every moment you spend in HK well
With these few simple preparations and thanks to international moving company Hong Kong, all the things you’re going to need on your first day in Hong Kong will be ready. Once the anxiety of the first day passes, you will start to enjoy all the incredible things this place has to offer. Don’t be afraid and seize the opportunity.
