A vibrant, energetic, and culturally-inclusive hub for global talents. Discover your next chapter at Hong Kong Metropolitan University.

Hong Kong is a modern, vibrant and dynamic metropolis providing professionals with unparalleled opportunities and clear career paths. As a diverse, people-centred hub supporting innovative development and strategic research, the city focuses on digital innovation, international business, smart city infrastructure, and bilingual connectivity. Hong Kong is becoming an ever more vital link in addressing complex global challenges and cultivating top-tier talent.

Within this energetic landscape, Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) stands as a forward-looking institution. Being the first University of Applied Sciences (UAS) in Hong Kong, we pledge to play a pioneering role in enhancing recognition of vocational and professional education and training, and nurturing talents with both applied skills and knowledge.

Overview of Hong Kong

Pre-Arrival & Administration

Visa & Immigration

A valid employment visa is a statutory requirement for non-local staff.

• Employment Visa: HKMU serves as the sponsor. The Human Resources Office coordinates filings with the Immigration Department.
• Dependants: Legally married spouses and unmarried dependent children under 18 may apply for dependant visas.

Immigration Department Details

Banking

To open a bank account (e.g., at the Bank of China branch on campus), standard requirements include:

1. Passport/Travel Document with a valid landing slip.
2. Hong Kong Identity Card (if issued).
3. Proof of Address: Banks strictly require proof of residence. Bring a bank statement or driver's license from your home country (dated within 3 months) stating your overseas address.

HKMA Account Opening Guide

Taxation

Hong Kong operates on a territorial tax system. Salaries are taxed at progressive rates or a standard rate (currently 15%), whichever is lower. The tax year runs from April 1 to March 31.

Inland Revenue Department

Arrival & Logistics

Transport from Airport

• Airport Express (AEL): Train service linking the airport to Kowloon and Hong Kong Island (~24 mins).
  Hong Kong International Airport
• Taxi: Urban taxis (Red) serve Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, New Territories taxis (Green) serve the New Territories, and Lantau taxis (Blue) serve Lantau Island.

The "Octopus" Card

The Octopus card is a contactless stored-value card widely used for public transport, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Purchase a "Sold Tourist Octopus" or "On-Loan Octopus" at the Airport or MTR stations.

Octopus Hong Kong

Mobile & Real-Name Registration

Under the Telecommunications Regulation, all SIM cards must be real-name registered. Users must provide identification (Passport/HKID) to activate service. Major providers include CSL, China Mobile, SmarTone, and 3HK.

Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID)

Residents staying in Hong Kong for more than 180 days are required by law to apply for an HKID within 30 days of arrival. It is necessary for public services.

Book HKID Appointment

Accommodation & Education

Housing

The rental market in Hong Kong is dynamic. Most residents live in private apartments, which are generally more compact compared to North American or European standards (measured in "Saleable Area").

• Leases: Typically two years (one year fixed, one year optional).
• Initial Costs: Expect to pay a two-month security deposit, plus one month's rent in advance. Real estate agent fees are standardly 50% of one month's rent.

Estate Agents Authority Guide

Education System (For Families)

Hong Kong boasts a highly regarded, diverse education system to suit different family planning needs:

• Local Public & Subsidized Schools: The government provides 12 years of free primary and secondary education. Teaching is predominantly in Chinese (Cantonese), making it great for full immersion.
• Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) Schools: Semi-private schools that offer greater flexibility in curriculum (often strong bilingual or English environments) and charge moderate tuition fees.
• International Schools & ESF: Over 50 international schools offer global curricula (IB, UK, US, Australian). The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is a major provider. Note: Application processes can be competitive; early inquiry is highly advisable.

Education Bureau: School Placement

Healthcare

Hong Kong boasts world-class medical facilities and highly trained healthcare professionals, the vast majority of whom speak fluent English. The healthcare system consists of two primary sectors:

• Public Sector: Administered by the Hospital Authority, offering comprehensive services at heavily subsidized rates for HKID holders. The nearest major public hospital to the main campus is Kwong Wah Hospital. While highly affordable and renowned for acute care, wait times for non-emergency public services can be longer.
• Private Sector: Comprises a vast network of private hospitals and general practitioners (GPs). This sector offers shorter waiting times, more comfortable amenities, and greater flexibility in choosing your physician, though at higher costs. Please refer to your employment contract for specific details regarding medical benefit coverage and affiliated clinic networks.

Hospital Authority Overview

Regulatory & Cultural Notes

Please be aware of the following local ordinances:

Tobacco Control

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places. The import, sale, or possession for commercial purposes of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products is strictly prohibited.

Public Hygiene

Fixed penalties (HK$3,000) are enforced for littering or spitting in public areas to maintain our clean city.

Innovation & AI Development

Our Campuses & Future Development

HKMU operates across several locations, covering the Ho Man Tin district, Kwai Chung district, and other areas, providing a vibrant and growing academic environment.

View Detailed Campus Maps

Campus Amenities

HKMU offers a comprehensive range of facilities to support your work and well-being.

Library

A modern hub for research and learning, the HKMU Library provides extensive physical and digital collections, along with quiet study zones and collaborative workspaces.

HKMU Library Website

Campus Catering

Various catering outlets are available on campus, offering a range of local and international cuisines for staff and students.

View Catering Outlets

Connectivity

The campus is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi (Wireless Network) ensuring seamless connectivity for all academic and administrative needs.

HKMU Information Technology Office

Digital Toolkit

The following mobile applications are commonly used for navigation and daily services:

Category	App Name	Function
Transport	MTR Mobile	Route planning and fare information.
	App1933 (KMB) / Citybus	Real-time bus arrival data.
	HKeMobility	Integrated transport guide.
Dining	OpenRice / Foodpanda / Keeta	Restaurant directory and food delivery.
Weather	MyObservatory	Official weather forecasts and warnings.
Communication	WhatsApp	Primary tool for work and social communication.

Hear from Our Global Staff

We take pride in our culturally-inclusive community. Here is what some of our international faculty members have to say about working at HKMU and living in Hong Kong.