How many British expats are in Hong Kong?

Estimates of British expats (citizens) living in Hong Kong generally range between 25,000 and 35,000, with some sources suggesting up to 50,000 during peak periods. While over 3 million people in Hong Kong hold British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) status, the number of British citizens primarily residing there as expatriates is much smaller.

How many Brits live in Hong Kong?

Ethnicity. Among the 33,733 citizens of the United Kingdom living in Hong Kong, 19,405 are of some European ethnicity, 6,893 are Chinese, 2,337 are Indian, 1,047 are Pakistani, 829 are Nepalese, 273 are other Asians, 227 are Filipino, 98 are Thai, 40 are Japanese, and 40 are Indonesian.

Where do most British expats live in the world?

Some of the most popular countries for British expats include Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the USA. When it comes to the EU, Brits usually choose Spain, Portugal and Ireland.

What is the largest expat community in Hong Kong?

Neighbouring Asian countries unsurprisingly account for the lion's share of the expats in Hong Kong, with Indonesians making up 26.3% of them.

Can you survive in Hong Kong with English?

Will I need to learn Chinese if I am moving to Hong Kong? While the local language of Hong Kong is officially Cantonese, English is the de facto second language and employees of international companies will often speak English at work. In fact, many companies will expect you to speak English as a first language.

Brit explains Hong Kong after 60 years living there

Is it easy for UK citizens to move to Hong Kong?

Yes, British citizens can move to Hong Kong after obtaining a visa. Many secure a job with a Hong Kong-based employer and use the General Employment Policy (GEP). Foreigners who want to start or join a local business can apply for the Investment as Entrepreneur visa.

What is the average salary of an expat in Hong Kong?

Salaries and Employment

Most expatriates work for multinational companies, which offer competitive salaries. According to the 2025 HSBC Expat Explorer Survey, the average expat salary in Hong Kong is US$152,000, with financial services employing 35% of expats and education 12%³.

Why are expats leaving HK?

Hong Kong's political environment and COVID-19 restrictions were the most frequently cited reasons. More than 62 per cent of those considering a departure said the national security law, passed in 2020, made them feel uncomfortable. More than a third were worried about the quality of education after the law's passage.

What salary is needed to live comfortably in Hong Kong?

A monthly salary of HKD 20,000–30,000 (USD 2,550–3,830) can support a comfortable lifestyle in Hong Kong. While HKD 50,000 (USD 6,380) is considered a high income, it's well above the city's average salary of HKD 20,000 (USD 2,550), offering greater financial flexibility.

Is there a red district in Hong Kong?

A section of Portland Street, particularly between Argyle Street and Dundas Street, hosts arguably Hong Kong's most famous red light district (serving mostly local Chinese clientele) and a popular scene in Hong Kong films.

What country loves British people the most?

Of the countries polled, Sweden is the non-Anglosphere country seen as friendliest to Britain, with 80% of the public seeing the UK and Sweden as having a positive relationship.

Where are Brits emigrating to in 2025?

Top 10 Countries Brits Moved to from the UK in 2025

• Australia – The UK's Favourite Destination. ...
• United Arab Emirates – Career Rewards and Luxury Living. ...
• United States – The Land of Opportunity. ...
• Canada – A Warm Welcome and Balanced Lifestyle. ...
• New Zealand – Quality of Life Meets Natural Beauty.

Where are Britons moving to avoid tax bills?

Brits are moving to tax-efficient locations like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) (especially Dubai) for zero income tax, while Malta attracts many with EU access and favorable remittance-based tax schemes. Other popular spots include Portugal, Greece, and Cyprus, offering tax incentives and lifestyle benefits, with some also considering the Bahamas, BVI, and Jersey for nil/low-tax environments, according to migration advisors. 

Is Hong Kong English friendly?

It has been demonstrated that English spoken in Hong Kong is highly intelligible to listeners from elsewhere, which helps explain why an increasing number of people are happy to be identified as speakers of this variety.

Are Hong Kongers welcome in the UK?

If you are from Hong Kong and a British National (Overseas) you and your family members can apply for a British National (overseas) visa. This is known as a BNO visa. It allows you to live, work and study in the UK.

What is considered wealthy in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong's affluent investors are multimillionaires by the age of 39: HSBC survey. Hong Kong's affluent amass at least HK$10 million (US$1.28 million) in liquid assets by the age of 39, with the majority relying on investments to grow their wealth, according to a survey by HSBC.

Can I move to Hong Kong from the UK?

To move to Hong Kong, you will need a visa, which can be applied for under the General Employment (GEP) Policy for those moving to work in the country. The visa is generally issued for a specific time period and requires a confirmed job offer from an employer in Hong Kong.

What jobs are in high demand in Hong Kong?

What are the top 10 in-demand jobs in 2025?

• Hays emphasised that 38% of businesses in Hong Kong are keen to expand their workforce in 2025.
• Finance Manager. ...
• KYC Analyst. ...
• Insurance Business Analyst. ...
• Network Engineer. ...
• Legal Counsel. ...
• Project Manager. ...
• Accountant.

What are the disadvantages of living in Hong Kong?

Cons of Living in Hong Kong

• High Pollution Levels. Unfortunately, the atmosphere in Hong Kong ranks among the most polluted in Southeast Asia. ...
• High Rental Costs and Small Spaces. ...
• A Transient City. ...
• High Cost of Living. ...
• Poor Work-Life Balance. ...
• Limited Space. ...
• Extreme Weather.

Is English declining in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong's English proficiency has declined for the fourth consecutive year, placing the city 39th globally and third in Asia, according to the English Proficiency Index published by an education organization.

What is the number one cause of death in Hong Kong?

Quick Answer. The number one cause of death in Hong Kong is cancer (malignant neoplasms). According to the Department of Health, cancer accounts for approximately one-third of all registered deaths in the territory, followed by pneumonia and heart disease as the next leading causes.

What do most expats in Hong Kong do?

According to HSBC's Expat Explorer survey, expats in Hong Kong report some of the highest salaries globally, with a significant proportion earning over USD 200,000 per year. The city is particularly attractive for those working in financial services, professional services, technology and commerce.

What is considered middle class in HK?

In May 2022, HSBC Premier conducted a survey of 1,000 people in Hong Kong for fresh insights into middle class aspirations and financial needs. A key finding: a middle class person is widely thought to be someone with an average of HKD5. 9 million in liquid assets.

Is Hong Kong's salary higher than the UK?

In the global job market, salary disparities between regions often reflect various economic factors, including demand for skills, cost of living, and market conditions. In recent years, many professionals in Hong Kong have reported significantly higher salaries compared to their counterparts in the UK.