Welcome to Hong Kong! Known for its breathtaking skyline of over 9,000 high-rise buildings and a unique blend of East and West, our vibrant city is a top destination for global talent. At cpjobs, we know that moving to a new country is a massive life event. To help you settle in, we’re kicking off a special guide to living and working in Hong Kong, inspired by a brilliant video masterclass from communications expert Laura Cozijnsen.

First things first: get ready for a fast-paced lifestyle. Efficiency is woven into the city’s DNA. Even our escalators move faster here—0.75 meters per second! When taking our world-class MTR (subway), remember the golden rule: stand on the right, walk on the left. Have your Octopus card ready 10 to 15 seconds before reaching the turnstile to avoid holding up the rush-hour line. If you are catching a cab, remember the color coding: Red for urban areas, Green for the New Territories, and Blue for Lantau Island.

For expats, the local systems are highly favorable. Hong Kong ranks as the 13th safest city in the world, meaning it is generally perfectly safe to stroll home at night. Financially, the tax system is progressive and highly attractive, ranging from just 2% up to a maximum of 17%. You will also be enrolled in the MPF (Mandatory Provident Fund), a compulsory retirement scheme where both you and your employer contribute.

Finally, you’ll quickly learn about our unique weather protocols. From summer to autumn, typhoons and heavy rainstorms can hit. If a Typhoon Signal No. 8 or a Black Rainstorm Warning is hoisted, you generally aren’t required to commute to the office. When it just rains normally, look out for “umbrella gardens” in your office—a quirky local habit where wet umbrellas are left open on the floor to dry!

Want to dive deeper into the logistics of your new home? Watch Laura Cozijnsen’s full video masterclass to learn everything you need to know about thriving in Hong Kong!