Do you dream of working remotely while discovering one of Asia’s most dynamic cities? Hong Kong, with its boundless energy, modern infrastructure and advantageous tax environment, is attracting more and more digital nomads. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to set up, work and make the most of your experience as a digital nomad in Hong Kong.
Why choose Hong Kong to work as a digital nomad?
Hong Kong is Asia’s economic and cultural hub, attracting thousands of digital nomads every year. The city-state’s unique assets make it an ideal destination for working while discovering a fascinating metropolis.
- A dynamic economy: Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centers and boasts one of the most dynamic economies in the region. This stimulating environment is conducive to business development and networking.
- A business-friendly environment: it’s quick and easy to set up a company, and numerous banking and fintech services facilitate the management of international activities. A strategic choice for those wishing to expand in Asia.
- Tax advantages: thanks to the territorial tax system, only locally-generated income is taxed, with highly competitive progressive rates (between 2% and 17%).
- A high-performance digital infrastructure: the city is equipped with a reliable high-speed Internet network and an excellent telecommunications system. You’ll find it easy to stay connected in most public spaces, coworking spaces and cafés.
- Efficient public transport: metro, streetcar, bus and ferries make getting around the city fast, safe and economical. The famous Octopus card makes getting around particularly convenient.
- A cosmopolitan and culturally rich living environment: Hong Kong offers a unique combination of Eastern and Western cultures. This diversity is reflected in its cuisine, its neighborhoods, its festivals and its people.
- English as an official language: as a former British colony, Hong Kong recognizes English as an official language alongside Cantonese. This makes integration much easier for digital nomads who don’t speak Chinese.
- A unique blend of urbanity and nature: despite its dizzying skyscrapers and hustle and bustle, Hong Kong also offers beaches, hiking trails and green spaces accessible in less than an hour from the city center.
Keep in mind… Hong Kong remains a demanding destination: the cost of living, particularly for housing, is high, and the demand for rentals makes supply scarce and expensive. What’s more, the city never sleeps: it’s a bustling, hectic megalopolis, less suited to those seeking calm and serenity.
Formalities and visas for digital nomads in Hong Kong
If you want to move to Hong Kong as a digital nomad, it’s essential to understand the entry rules and visa options available.
For short-term stays (less than 90 days), French nationals (and most European nationals) can enter Hong Kong without a visa. This exemption allows you to discover the city, work remotely on your own account or for your company abroad, without any special administrative formalities.
However, for stays of over 90 days, a visa is required. Unlike some countries that have set up visas specifically for digital nomads, Hong Kong does not yet offer such a scheme. There are, however, a number of options for self-employed workers and entrepreneurs:
- Investment as Entrepreneur Visa: for people wishing to set up and run a business in Hong Kong. You will need to demonstrate that your business will add value to the local economy.
- Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS): designed to attract qualified talent, this program is based on a points system and does not require a prior job offer. It is particularly suited to experienced profiles and ambitious project leaders.
We strongly recommend that you consult the detailed criteria and procedures on the official website of the Hong Kong Immigration Department, in order to choose the most appropriate solution for your situation.
Hong Kong health insurance for digital nomads
When planning your stay in Hong Kong as a digital nomad, health insurance is an essential point not to be underestimated. Hong Kong’s healthcare system, while efficient and renowned, is not free for non-residents and can be particularly costly.
How does the healthcare system work in Hong Kong?
The local healthcare system rests on two pillars:
- The public sector, largely funded by the government, offers low-cost, high-quality care… but only to Hong Kong ID card holders (permanent or temporary residents). Visitors and non-residents have to pay unsubsidized rates, which can be ten times higher than local rates.
- The private sector, popular for its short waiting times and comfort, charges even higher rates. A simple consultation can cost several hundred euros, and hospitalization several thousand.
Why take out international insurance?
Even for a short stay, an accident, illness or dental problem can quickly lead to substantial costs. International health insurance for expatriates and digital nomads will cover you:
- Medical expenses (consultations, hospitalizations, examinations, medication) in the public or private sector.
- Emergencies and medical repatriation if necessary.
- Possibly additional options (dental, optical, maternity).
Santexpat.fr, la nouvelle façon de
s’assurer à l’étranger
1. Meilleurs prix
- Sans surcoût sur les tarifs assureurs,
nous comparons + de 300 offres d’assurance
2. Simplicité
- Un parcours simple pour sélectionner votre
solution en quelques clics
3. Accompagnement
- Nos conseillers sont là pour un
accompagnement 100% personnalisé
What’s the budget for living in Hong Kong as a digital nomad?
Hong Kong is a fascinating and dynamic city, but it is also renowned for being one of the world’s most expensive metropolises. So before embarking on your adventure, it’s crucial to plan your budget carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Between the cost of accommodation – often the biggest expense – transportation, food, coworking spaces and leisure activities, rates can quickly climb if you’re not careful. Fortunately, with a few tips and good organization, it’s possible to strike a balance between comfort and expense control.
| Position | Average cost |
| Accommodation (studio) | 13,000-20,000 HKD |
| Transportation (Octopus Card) | 500-800 HKD |
| Power supply | 2,500-4,000 HKD |
| Utilities & internet | 700-1,000 HKD |
| Coworking/cafés | 2,000-3,000 HKD |
To reduce your expenses, opt for less touristy areas, eat in local restaurants(cha chaan tengs) and consider sharing a flat.
Where to live in Hong Kong as a digital nomad?
The best neighborhoods for freelancers and mobile workers
Finding accommodation that suits your budget and lifestyle is often one of the main challenges for a digital nomad in Hong Kong. Rental demand is high, supply limited and prices particularly high, especially in central areas. Fortunately, some areas offer a good compromise between accessibility, dynamism and quality of life, depending on your priorities. Here’s a selection of popular areas for digital nomads:
- Central & Wan Chai: the economic and financial heart of Hong Kong, Central is the ideal choice for those who want to be close to offices, coworking spaces and nightlife. Rents here are among the most expensive in the city, but the practicality and energy of the area appeal to many mobile professionals. Wan Chai, just next door, is a little more affordable but still central and lively.
- Sheung Wan & Sai Ying Pun: these trendy neighborhoods to the west of Central offer a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, while remaining very well served. Sheung Wan is popular for its cafés, galleries and boutiques, while Sai Ying Pun attracts a younger population thanks to its slightly lower rents and friendly atmosphere.
- Pok Fu Lam: located just 15 minutes from the city center, this residential neighborhood offers a quieter setting, modern and older apartments, and even a certain proximity to the sea and green spaces.
- Tai Koo: on Hong Kong Island, this more family-oriented residential neighborhood appeals to those seeking a more peaceful environment, without being too far from workplaces and amenities.
- Happy Valley: renowned for its leafy surroundings and quieter streets, this chic neighborhood offers a good balance between tranquility and proximity to the city center. However, rents remain relatively high.
- Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon): for those wishing to live on the Kowloon side, TST combines entertainment, shopping, restaurants and convenient transport to Hong Kong Island. Prices may be slightly lower than in Central.
- Sham Shui Po & Mong Kok: also in Kowloon, these more authentic and popular neighborhoods offer more affordable accommodation and a more local, vibrant experience.
The best coworking spaces and cafés to work in Hong Kong
- WeWork
- The Hive
- Playground.work
- Metropolitan Workshop
Numerous cafés also offer excellent connections and a conducive atmosphere: Elephant Grounds, NOC Coffee or Knockbox.
How do you get around Hong Kong?
Hong Kong’s transport network is among the best in the world:
- Take an Octopus Card to pay for metro, bus, streetcar and ferry fares.
- Try the Star Ferry across the bay for just a few HK dollars.
- Cabs are affordable for occasional journeys, but the metro is often faster.
Living the Hong Kong lifestyle as a digital nomad
Being a digital nomad in Hong Kong doesn’t just mean working in modern coworking spaces surrounded by skyscrapers: it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a unique way of life, where tradition and modernity coexist in a spectacular setting.
Enjoy nature and nearby beaches
Even in the heart of this bustling megalopolis, nature remains accessible just a few metro stops or minutes by ferry. Put on your hiking boots and hike the famous Dragon’s Back, one of the most popular trails, offering breathtaking views of the China Sea and green hills. If you prefer to relax, head for the beaches of Lantau or Shek O, ideal for a sunny interlude and a waterside picnic.
Discover local gastronomy and markets
Hong Kong is a gourmet’s paradise. Here, local cuisine is an integral part of everyday life. Settle into a tea house for traditional dim sum, try egg tarts fresh from the oven or savor a steaming bowl of wonton noodles in a neighborhood canteen. Foodies will also appreciate night markets like Temple Street, where you can sample specialties in a typically Hong Kong atmosphere.
Explore the wealth of culture and festivals
For lovers of culture and discovery, the city is full of treasures. Stroll through the alleys of colorful markets like Ladies’ Market or Goldfish Market, visit iconic temples like Man Mo Temple and don’t miss the traditional festivals that punctuate the year, such as Lunar New Year or the Lantern Festival. Lovers of contemporary art will also be delighted by the M+ Museum and the West Kowloon Cultural District.
Join the international community and expand your network
Finally, Hong Kong attracts a large community of expatriates and digital nomads from all over the world. It’s a great opportunity to expand your professional network and make new friends. Join events on Meetup.com and attend afterworks to expand your network. You can also take part in networking sessions and themed workshops in coworking spaces. Expatriate clubs and associations regularly organize sports, cultural or solidarity activities to encourage exchanges.
Understanding Hong Kong taxation for digital nomads
The question of taxation is crucial for digital nomads planning to live and work in Hong Kong. Find out about local tax rules before you take the plunge. Also check your obligations in France to avoid double taxation.
An advantageous territorial regime for your income
Hong Kong’s tax system is based on the territorial principle, which means that only income generated in Hong Kong is subject to local taxation. Unlike most countries, the concept of tax residence does not come into play in determining taxation: even if you live in Hong Kong all year round, only income actually earned in the territory is taxed there.
Good news for short stays: if you spend less than 60 days on site during the tax year, you can benefit from an income tax exemption. Beyond that, your local income becomes taxable.
Progressive, moderate tax rates
The Hong Kong system is also appreciated for its low rates and simplicity. Income tax is progressive: it increases with income, but remains capped at 17%. A basic exemption also applies, reducing the amount actually taxed for modest incomes.
Here are the tax rates applicable in 2023:
| Taxable income (HKD) | Tax rates |
| 1 – 50 000 | 2 % |
| 50 001 – 100 000 | 6 % |
| 100 001 – 150 000 | 10 % |
| 150 001 – 200 000 | 14 % |
| Over 200,000 | 17 % |
Don’t neglect your obligations in France – If you are a French national, remember to check your tax situation with the French tax authorities. In the absence of a specific tax treaty between France and Hong Kong, you could be subject to double taxation if your income is not properly declared and justified. We strongly advise you to consult a specialized tax advisor to optimize your situation.
Why become a digital nomad in Hong Kong?
Take advantage of Hong Kong’s economic dynamism, quality of life and strategic location. Hong Kong remains a destination of choice for digital nomads. Draw up a sound budget and select the visa best suited to your situation. Then immerse yourself in this fascinating city, where tradition meets modernity.
