[cl23]

hi everyone

i'll arrive inn HK soon. Wonder how easy it is to open a current account in HK? what proof do banks need? I wont have a credit reference in hk since dont have long history in hk yet. is a letter from employer sufficient? anything i need to be aware of?

is it worth having a HK$ credit card? is there an annual fee? which bank/credit card company is good?

any good website you can recommend? thanks a lot!

[berryplucker]

Bank account: no problem - just bring your passport.
Credit card: probably will need your salary paid into your bank account and/or a letter from your employer.

Yes - get a HK$ credit card. Basic cards are free. HSBC is good.

[nivantj]

For some banks, you might need to wait for 3 months before you can apply for CC as they need your last 3 months salary record.....
FYI, be aware of Cash advance charges and late fee surcharges.

P.S.: You will learn how to get rid of Annual fee after 1/2 yrs

[KnowItAll]

Depends where you're moving from.

If you're moving from a country which has Citibank / American Express, I know for sure that these banks will take into account your existing credit record and give you local cards.

[chikakeru]

Yes, beware of the cash advance charges. HSBC would normally require 3 months banking history with them, but if you put in a time deposit of 50000 HK, they can issue you a credit card immediately.

[cl23]

Thanks all so much!