Opening Bank account without HKID

[Gatts]

Can I open a bank account, say with HSBC, with my passport while waiting for my work visa application to complete?

[saltwater]

You should be able to. I bank with Hang Seng - you can open an account with them with a passport or anything that confirms your home address. Or get your work to write you a letter on letterhead with company chop saying you're working here and take it in.

Job done.

[Clay]

I had to have a sponsor at HSBC, but my agent's father who has banked with them for over 40 years was more than happy to help me out. Good luck to ya

[petrm]

As far as I know, most banks in HK will not let you open an account, unless you are referred by one of their customers who has had an account with them for more than a year.

It seemed strange to me, but later I found out that this is due to the Chinese culture - doing business only within their own circle.

Passport is sufficient ID to open an account.

[adZ]

I'm still waiting for my HKiD/Work visa too but was able to open a power vantage account at HSBC using my passport, employment contract, proof of address from London - I used a tax bill - and you have to deposit $500HKD. They will give you a check book and ATM card on the spot.

[KnowItAll]

>> It seemed strange to me, but later I found out that this is due to the Chinese culture - doing business only within their own circle.

Nah, that may have been true years ago, but now .. its due to "know your customer" rules that are in place to prevent money laundering and to remain compliant with various regulations across the world.

[RASEL]

hi !.

Yes you can open a Bank account in HSBC and Standerd charted Bank by a passport only.You don't need any H.K ID.

I did it on Last year with both of two and I am not a H.K ID holder nither I stay in Hongkong.

It's all depend upon the way you approch to the Bank and their decession.

When I had opened my account I had explained them why I wanted to open account and they had opend account for me without any introducer / any papers only by my passport .

If you have any farther question on this please fill free to ask.

[frenchfarangbkk]

Hi,

Thanks for message, I also want to open an account, so could you tell me where is the branch you have been to open an account with passport and tourist visa only?

Is it possible to open a euro currency account?

Thanks a lot.