[Oz Girl]

Have read through past threads and there's a few different opionions on this. I need to open a bank account in HK before I move. My work visa is being processed but I won't have any of the documentation other than a copy of a signed 12mth contract with my employer. CAN I OPEN AN ACCOUNT WITH HSBC USING ONLY MY PASSPORT?

[timklip]

i opened an account with only my passport, after i arrived here. however, you need a reference from a current bank member.

[PDLM]

Your passport and a copy of your contract should be fine (assuming the contract mentions your salary).

[jaykay]

There seems to be confusion depending on which branch of HSBC you visit. I was unable to open a bank account with HSBC when I first came here as I hadn't been here for 3 months, etc, even though my wife has been an account holder for over 10 years!

I ended up opening an account with BEA and all was OK. I now have accounts with both BEA and HSBC. Just try, you will probably be OK. If you have problems then you have other banks you can try.

[golfduke]

when I cam here, HSBC allowed me to open a bank acct., but I could not have any withdrawal activity for 90 days.


I think someone is correct though, it depends on the branch office that you visit.

[Oz Girl]

What about other banks? Citibank etc. Are passports and a copy of a contract acceptable or is it just a matter of walking in and seeing what happens?

[dragons4ever]

I was told I needed a HK ID and HK address to be able to apply for an account. If you use the account for less than three months, you will get fined too.

You can open a HSBC off shore account back home before you move, but the process may take a little while

[supersizeme]

I just got sent a HSBC credit card invitation in the mail, I am in Aust currently, if I signed up would that give me any advantage for when I moved to HK?

Thanks.

[jaykay]

Passport, contract and proof of address will be needed. You can use a lease as proof, but also remember to take proof of your previous address. I ended up getting the account by using my old address in England and then changing it when bills came through in my name at my HK address.

[TOOTS]

I was wondering as well as Bank Accounts, are there Building Socieites here in HKG or is it just a British thing? What I want to do is open a bank account for my wages to go in plus a separate Savings account to save a chunk of my wages on a monthly basis and let it accumulate interest? Any suggestions?