What You Need to Know Before Becoming a Digital Nomad in Hong Kong

Digital nomads travel the world and work anywhere on the planet. It is one lifestyle that many individuals have adopted. The flexibility and the adventure it offers make this lifestyle appealing to many.

Tech-savvy nomads have a way of living that many people dream of having. If you are one of these, then you are one of the 35 million living this life.

If you are considering visiting Asia for your next trip, why not choose Hong Kong? It is one of the cities that leads the game in technology.

You can find everything you need as a digital nomad in Asia's World City. It has fast Internet, modern infrastructure, and many accommodation options.

The city also has a lot to offer when it comes to lodging. Whether you want hotel accommodations or furnished apartments, Hong Kong has various options for you.

Before heading to this fascinating city, arm yourself with knowledge. It will help make your stay more productive.

Read on and learn what you need to know before becoming a digital nomad in Hong Kong.

Digital Nomads and Their Lifestyle

Digital nomads are primary drivers of the global economy, contributing $787 billion annually. Their lifestyle is such that they can go to any place they want and work from there.

Even with all the glamor, being a digital nomad also has challenges. The top two are finding dependable Internet connections and getting a decent workplace.

These challenges, though, are almost non-existent in Hong Kong. It is why this highly-connected city is a digital nomad's dream destination.

Below are things to consider if Hong Kong is your next destination.

Visa

Digital nomads can apply for a visa in Hong Kong. It permits you to live and work legally in the area. You can choose from two visa options.

One alternative is the Investment as Entrepreneurs visa/entry permit. It is equal to a digital nomad visa in Hong Kong.

The second is the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme. It is the ideal choice for you should you want to immigrate to Hong Kong.

Accommodation

Hong Kong has various accommodation options that fit any budget. Choices range from budget hostels to apartments and 5-star hotels.

If you want to stay for extended periods, consider getting an apartment in an area you like. The cost of an apartment often depends on location.

Wifi

Hong Kong is one of the top places in the world with the fastest Internet speed. In November 2021, it had a median download speed of 158.19 megabits per second.

This super-fast speed makes it a magnet for digital nomads. Furthermore, the government is offering free wifi services through the GovWifi program.

No matter where you work in Hong Kong, you will likely enjoy this top-notch service. GovWifi is available in government buildings, community centers, libraries, and parks.

Work Spaces

You can find many coworking spaces in Hong Kong. Due to their flexibility, many people flock to them. You get the benefits of an office environment without staying in one specific area.

You can find coworking spaces that offer several perks. These include unlimited coffee, discounted food, a nap room, and gaming areas.

Amenities like fast wifi, meeting rooms, and private lockers are also available.

Costs

Hong Kong is a financial capital, so it follows that the cost of living is high compared to other places in Asia.

Digital nomads can expect their cost of living in Hong Kong to be around $3,900 per month. The estimate covers the following:

A 3-month stay in an affordable place
Accommodations located in the city center
With meals taken outside

Many digital nomads have goals that include:

Lowering travel costs, and
Creating income to support your lifestyle.

If you want to reduce your expenses, there are several ways you can do it.

Supplement your work through online jobs.
Consider renting a room in a shared apartment complex.
Compare prices of goods to find out where you can buy supplies at lower costs.
For transportation, use an Octopus Card. It lets you pay fares at a discounted rate. You can also use the card at some shops.
Take taxis for short trips only. For longer rides, go on a bus trip.
Consider using a SIM card for unlimited 4G data.
Go for local cuisine or street food.

Final Thoughts

If you are like many digital nomads, Hong Kong is one of your aspirations. It is a vibrant, fast-paced, highly-connected city that offers a very high quality of living.

In short, Hong Kong has everything tech-savvy nomads need.

While accommodation can be expensive, there are many ways to mitigate the costs. Plus, there is so much the city offers that costs you little to nothing.

World-class food dots every street. Attractions like beaches and hiking trails are close to the city. Most of all, it has one of the world's fastest Internet.

With that, you can live a modern life as a digital nomad in Hong Kong yet stay close to nature.