Top 10 Tips for Relocating to Hong Kong with Kids
Relocating to a bustling city like Hong Kong can be exciting, but doing so with children adds a whole new layer of logistics and emotion. Between navigating schools, healthcare, housing, and everyday life, preparation is key. This detailed guide offers essential tips for families moving to Hong Kong, with insights into how to make the transition smoother for everyone—from toddlers to teens.
1. Start with the Right School Search
Why it matters: Education is often the top priority for expat families. Hong Kong’s international school landscape is competitive, with waitlists common at top institutions.
What to know:
Begin your search at least 6–12 months before your move.
Popular curricula include IB, British, American, Canadian, and French. Make sure to match the curriculum with your home country or future relocation plans.
Locations with good schools: Mid-Levels, Discovery Bay, Kowloon Tong, Sai Kung, and Clear Water Bay.
Lesser-known but excellent options include schools like Discovery College, Lantau International, and Think International School.
Tip: Consider using a school placement consultant if you’re unfamiliar with the system.
2. Choose a Family-Friendly Neighborhood
Why it matters: Your choice of neighborhood impacts school commute times, play opportunities, and your family’s overall quality of life.
Top picks:
Discovery Bay: Expat-heavy, walkable, beachside community with great schools.
Sai Kung & Clear Water Bay: Peaceful, spacious homes ideal for nature-loving families.
Mid-Levels & The Peak: More central, upscale areas close to elite schools and healthcare.
Kowloon Tong: Popular for its proximity to many international schools.
Tip: Consider commute times and transport links. Hong Kong traffic can be unpredictable.
3. Secure Housing with Child-Friendly Features
Why it matters: Not all apartments are suitable for families, especially with young children.
Look for:
Secure buildings with 24/7 doormen
Outdoor space (rare, but possible—rooftop terraces or ground-floor units)
Proximity to parks or recreational areas
Nearby grocery stores, clinics, and schools
HKStay Tip: Services like HKStay help families find fully furnished, short or long-term rentals close to top schools and playgrounds—saving you the hassle of apartment hunting on arrival.
4. Understand Healthcare Access for Children
Why it matters: Hong Kong has excellent healthcare, but understanding how to access it is crucial—especially in emergencies.
Key facts:
Public hospitals are high-quality but often crowded.
Private hospitals (like Matilda International Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong, or Canossa Hospital) are preferred by many expats for pediatric care.
International health insurance is recommended, as private care can be expensive.
Tip: Register with a GP and pediatrician early. Some private clinics offer child-friendly environments and multilingual staff.
5. Tackle Childcare and After-School Activities Early
Why it matters: If both parents are working, arranging reliable childcare is vital. After-school activities also help kids adjust socially.
Options:
Hiring a full-time domestic helper (common in Hong Kong)
International preschools or nurseries (start from age 6 months)
Sports, music, arts, and language classes widely available in community centres or private academies
Tip: Helpers often double as nannies, cooks, and housekeepers—interview carefully and consider agencies with strong vetting processes.
6. Prepare for Cultural and Climate Adjustments
Why it matters: Hong Kong’s subtropical climate, crowded streets, and fast pace can be overwhelming.
Adjustments:
Summer can be humid and hot; lightweight, breathable clothing is essential.
Crowds and noise are part of city life—prep young kids gradually.
Teach basic Cantonese phrases to help children feel more at ease in local settings.
Tip: Visit family-friendly locations like Hong Kong Park, Ocean Park, or outlying islands to decompress and connect with nature.
7. Plan Your Paperwork and Visas Carefully
Why it matters: Visa requirements can vary depending on your employment status, nationality, and family structure.
Checklist:
Dependent visas for children (apply with the main work visa)
Proof of schooling or enrollment
Birth certificates, marriage licenses, vaccination records (for school and healthcare)
Local ID (HKID) for children staying over 180 days
Tip: Check with your employer or relocation consultant for the latest requirements and help with translations or notarization.
8. Establish a Routine Quickly
Why it matters: Children thrive on routine, especially during major life changes.
Suggestions:
Enroll in playgroups, swim classes, or local activities within your first month.
Stick to regular mealtimes and bedtimes, even while adjusting to jet lag.
Create familiar rituals like Sunday family outings or reading before bed.
Tip: Join expat Facebook groups or sites like GeoExpat to learn about kid-friendly events and resources.
9. Connect with the Expat and Local Parenting Community
Why it matters: A strong support network eases the transition—for both parents and kids.
Where to find support:
Parent-teacher associations (PTAs)
Expat family clubs (like the American Club or Hong Kong Football Club)
Social media groups (Expats with Kids in Hong Kong, HK Moms, etc.)
Local community centers and churches
Tip: Don’t be shy—most other expat parents were in your shoes once and are happy to help.
10. Give It Time—and Keep an Open Mind
Why it matters: Even in a vibrant, international city like Hong Kong, adjusting takes time—for everyone.
Advice:
Expect emotional ups and downs in the first few months.
Celebrate small wins: the first friend made, the first local dish tried, or the first birthday party invite.
Embrace the opportunity for your children to grow up as global citizens.
Tip: Keep communication open with your children. Encourage them to share their feelings and help them stay in touch with friends and family back home.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Hong Kong with children is a bold and enriching decision. With the right preparation and mindset, it can offer your family a life of global experiences, cultural richness, and personal growth. From finding the right school to navigating housing and healthcare, these tips should serve as a foundation for a smooth and rewarding transition.
Want help finding family-friendly housing or serviced apartments? Explore HKStay’s tailored expat services that take the stress out of your move—so you can focus on what matters most: settling in as a family.
