BANKING

Hong Kong is an international banking and financial center. Most international banks have branches in Hong Kong. Typical service hours are Monday to Friday, 0900 - 1700. Some banks also open on Saturday mornings.

 

Opening a Bank Account

• Applications for bank accounts should be made in person. Bring your passport or other valid travel documents and proof of residence. If you live on campus, you may request the Campus Management Office or the Human Resources Office for a supporting document as proof of residence.

 

EPS

• Electronic banking facilities are widely used in Hong Kong. All major retailers in Hong Kong will accept your bank debit card for payment with no additional charge. This system, known as EPS (Electronic Point of Sales) requires you to enter a PIN, which is issued when you open an account. Your account will be debited immediately upon completion of the transaction.

 

ATM

• You should be able to carry out most of your banking transactions on most automatic teller machines (ATMs) using your bank debit card. ATMs are usually conveniently located. Some machines provide 24-hour cash withdrawal facilities for Visa and MasterCard holders. ATMs also provide other general services including balance enquiry, transfers and payments. There are 2 ATM systems in Hong Kong; one is linked to the Bank of China and its partners, and the other used by HSBC and other international banks. You may be charged a fee if you use an ATM machine operating on a system not linked to your bank.

 

Credit Cards

• International credit cards such as American Express, VISA, UnionPay and MasterCard are also widely acceptable in Hong Kong. Premises with credit card services usually display stickers of accepted cards at their entrance.