New to Hong Kong?
Start with what needs doing first
Choosing a school, getting a SIM, checking a tenancy, finding work, seeing a doctor or getting around: browse a guide for the task you need to tackle.
Identity and administration
2 guides · Page 1. Open an article for the full text, steps, checklists and official sources.
Your first HKID: appointments, documents and collection
Check registration duties against age and permitted stay, organise identity and entry records, and manage the identity card separately from immigration validity.
- New arrivals generally aged 11 or above and permitted to stay more than 180 days must register within 30 days of arrival.
- Booking, submitting the application and collecting the card are separate stages; retain each notice.
- An HKID does not extend immigration permission or automatically establish permanent residence.
6 sectionsRead the full guide
Your first month: identity, housing, accounts and family plans
The first month is easier when tasks have an order. Deal with legal deadlines, housing and contact first, then work through accounts, school, work and healthcare.
- Prioritise safe accommodation, working contact and time-limited identity tasks, then add everyday services.
- Record responsibility, documents, next action and confirmation for each task, not merely application submitted.
- Schools, banks and public services have separate eligibility and processing times; keep alternatives.
6 sectionsRead the full guide