Working In Hong Kong

A Profile On What To Expect When Working In Hong Kong

The following information may be of help in deciding whether you would be interested in a quantity surveying, engineering or project management job based in Hong Kong.

Currency

Currency predominantly used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar, which is the 8th most traded currency in the world.

Political / Religious Climate

Hong Kong’s political and judicial systems are independently run from that of China’s. Although Hong Kong is part of China it still follow the English Common Law, not China’s legal system.

The ties to Common Law also mean that Hong Kong has a high level of religious freedom. Main religions practiced are Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity. There is also Hindi, Muslim, Sikh and Judaism as well as others.

Economy

Hong Kong has a huge financial district with one of the largest banking sectors in the world. This is one of the economies main driving forces, the second being trading and logistics. With little industrial policy and almost no import or export controls Hong Kong has flourished and is now the worlds largest re-export centre. This has paved the way for a transport and logistics infrastructure, including the world second busiest container port and the Worlds busiest airport for international cargo.

Culture and Leisure

English is the official language for Hong Kong, although Cantonese is the main spoken language with English as the main second language.

Hong Kong has impeccable transport links making travelling around the districts on public transport very easy. There is a MTR service, a privately run bus service and regular ferries to the Hong Kong Island.

Hong Kong has a huge wealth of leisure activities available, with great restaurants, easy access to shops and an active nightlife. The city is energetic and lively with an array of markets taking place both day and night. Within the city you are able to find a wide variety of different cuisines, with both traditional Chinese and western food being popular choices.

Hong Kong, known for its modern architecture and its stunning city skyline is very built up in certain areas, but has a number of parks and recreational areas. It’s important to note that 60% of Hong Kong Island isn’t built up at all, leaving huge areas of green space, hills and sweeping views making it a perfect area for walks and hikes.

Accommodation and Education

Hong Kong has a renowned education system, with a number of private schools teaching in English, although bi-literate and trilingual proficiency is encouraged.

Space is a luxury in Hong Kong due to the large population, for this reason flats are the main available accommodation. Rents can seem extremely high especially in relation to the space, however taxes are so low, this can be balanced out. If you are looking for an apartment in Hong Kong there are numerous tactics that are encouraged to help you find the perfect place. Some of these are listed here: 

  • Decide where you want to live. Closer to the Hong Kong Island is more expensive but will mean you are nearer to the business districts. Kowloon and outer territories are cheaper but could mean you have a longer commute.
  • Be clear with the estate agent and persevere, it’s unlikely that you will be shown the best apartment available on your first set of viewings.
  • Newer builds tend to be smaller - an older property will give you more space.

Visa Requirements

British citizens may visit Hong Kong for up to 6 months without the need for a visa. However if you wish to take employment you need a visa before arrival.

Search Jobs in Hong Kong

Newsletter

Get construction industry news relating to the UK, Canada, Asia, the Middle East and other worldwide locations.

Subscribe

Testimonial

“We have used Maxim for the majority of our recruitment over the past 15 or so years. During that time, Richard and Steve have provided outstanding service. They take great care to understand the business and role, enabling them to accurately screen and identify suitable candidates who accurately match our requirements. They have an extensive international network which they use to good effect. The staff we have recruited through them have proven an excellent match for our organisation. I would wholeheartedly recommend them for construction and construction dispute recruitment. ”

Director of International Claims and Dispute Consultancy | December 2023

Send Us Your CV

Need help finding the ideal job? Want to save time when searching?

Let us find your next job.

Send Us Your CV

Register for Job Alerts

Maxim Insights

Helping You Find the Perfect Fit

Specialising in the construction, engineering, and property sectors in the UK, Canada, Middle East and Asia, we've carved out a niche of focusing on quality and building strong, lasting relationships with leading professionals and companies. Here’s how we can be of help to you.…

Read more »

A Healthy Body and Clear Mind All Year Round

Maintaining physical and mental wellbeing is essential not only for personal health but also for professional success. Below are practical tips to help keep your body and mind in top shape, no matter your role or industry.…

Read more »

Construction Claims and Disputes Career Change | Should You Join a Large or a Small Firm?

In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at some of the pros and cons of working in both small and large firms within this niche industry.…

Read more »

Key Professional Bodies and Organisations in the Construction Industry

In this article, Daria highlights some of the key professional bodies and organizations that I believe are important for professionals in the construction industry to be aware of.…

Read more »

Unlock Hidden Opportunities | Why Construction Professionals Should Register with Maxim Recruitment

In the world of professional construction, not all opportunities are visible on job boards or company websites. Many of the best roles are filled behind the scenes, through headhunting/talent acquisition. Maxim Recruitment can open doors you didn’t even know existed.…

Read more »

Industry News

Glenigan: Major project starts dry up

There was a 19% drop in the value of construction project starts in the three months to the end of January, according to Glenigan’s latest report

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 18 February, 08:47

Read more »

Egis adds railway electrification boutique

French consulting engineer Egis has bolstered its transport design capabilities with the acquisition of Derby-based Overhead Line Engineering Limited.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 18 February, 07:56

Read more »

MV Kelly orders £11m of dumper trucks

Civil engineering contractor MV Kelly has placed an £11m order for site dumpers with Thwaites distributor BTE Plant Sales.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 18 February, 07:54

Read more »

Colas warned over train derailment

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has told Network Rail and its contractor Colas Rail that they need to clean up after themselves to prevent trains derailing.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 18 February, 07:52

Read more »

West London Partnership prepares to start Bollo Lane blocks

Barratt London and Places for London have secured planning approval for the next phase of their Bollo Lane site in Acton.

Source: The Construction Index Last updated: 18 February, 07:50

Read more »