[Hong Kong] How Japanese people can open an HSBC account [Memo]

I usually live in China (Shenzhen), but I wanted an HSBC bank account (personal account), so I went to HSBC in Hong Kong to open one

This time, as a memo, I will introduce how Japanese people can open a bank account with HSBC in Hong Kong

Please note that this article is written based on the author's own experience and is not a guarantee that you will be able to open an HSBC account, so please use it as a reference only

*Information as of October 2025

Overview of HSBC

HSBC (Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation), founded in Hong Kong in 1865 and now headquartered in London, United Kingdomone of the world's largest global banks.

HSBC's major features are its international network and multi-currency accounts. Its "multi-currency account" allows you to manage multiple currencies, such as USD, HKD, RMB, and JPY, in a single account, making overseas remittances and international fund management smooth. HSBC's online mobile banking also allows for instant transfers to accounts around the world 24 hours a day, making it a highly convenient bank account for those conducting overseas business or international transactions

In addition, HSBC bank accounts are globally compatible, so people who are stationed or emigrated overseas can enjoy the benefit of being able to continue working and living while using their HSBC global account overseas

However, on the other hand, you should be aware that the paperwork and screening required when opening an account are strict, the account will be frozen if there is no history of deposits and withdrawals for more than one year after opening, and it is not very convenient to use ATMs in Japan or transfer money within Japan

Information required to open an HSBC account

Author's Prerequisites

○ I have a residence in mainland China (Shenzhen) and possess a Shenzhen work permit/residence permit.
○ I do not have a residence in Hong Kong and am not eligible for a Hong Kong work visa/identity card.

HSBC Prerequisites

If you want to open an international HSBC bank account, you must apply at an HSBC branch in Hong Kong. (Any branch within Hong Kong is fine.)

* HSBC in Japan: Does not handle new account openings (only handles products such as investment trusts)
* HSBC in mainland China: As it is effectively treated as a bank in mainland China, there are restrictions on overseas remittances and international fund management.

○ There are various plans available when opening a personal account with HSBC, but unless you are wealthy, the basic "HSBC One" plan will be sufficient

HSBC account opening conditions

The terms and conditions for opening an HSBC account are listed on the official website below

Foreigners who do not have a residence in Hong Kong, like me, fall under condition "C" in the document below

Things to prepare in advance

① Basic preparations

○ Ability to communicate in English, Chinese, or Cantonese
(Japanese is not accepted)
○ Original passport
○ Original or digital tax certificate from Japan or China
(must be written in English, Chinese, or Cantonese)
○ Smartphone with data connectivity in Hong Kong (SMS and email verification is required when opening an account)
○ Installation of the "HSBC HK Mobile Banking" app, which will be needed immediately after opening an account
(download in advance from the App Store or Google Play)
○ Deposit fee for the first ATM deposit (100 HKD banknote)

② Supplementary preparations (if any)

I was able to pass HSBC's screening and open an account by preparing the items mentioned above, but it seems that you may be asked to present the following documents

○ Original or digital copy of the employment contract (labor contract) with the company to which the individual belongs
*Must be written in English, Chinese, or Cantonese
○ Original or digital copy of the company registration information to which the individual belongs
*Certified copy of the company register in Japan, or business license in China
*Must be written in English, Chinese, or Cantonese
○ Original or digital copy of the lease agreement for the home where the individual resides
*Must be written in English, Chinese, or Cantonese
○ Original or digital copy of the utility usage history for the home where the individual resides
○ Original Japanese My Number Card or driver's license
○ Original work permit / residence permit for mainland China
*Only for Japanese nationals residing in mainland China

③ Make a reservation to visit an HSBC branch (required)

Even if you make a reservation in advance, the branch is often busy, so the account opening process takes approximately two hours

What to do at an HSBC branch

① Account opening screening at the branch

○ Submit any documents you brought with you
. ○ Have an interview with an HSBC bank employee (in English, Chinese, or Cantonese).
○ State the purpose of opening an HSBC bank account (personal account).

However, simply stating "business use" as the purpose of opening an account will not be sufficient to pass the screening process. You must be able to prove on the spot that you have some kind of connection with Hong Kong or a Hong Kong company.
* For example: You have business dealings with Hong Kong companies or organizations, and you have frequent physical contact with them, etc.

② After the store has completed the inspection, the inspection must be carried out on the spot

To verify your identity, you will need to provide the phone number and email address associated with your smartphone (SIM) to an HSBC employee. Authentication will then be carried out via email or SMS

○ Use the "HSBC HK Mobile Banking" app to authenticate your bank account. If you don't know how to set up the app, an HSBC bank employee will help you set up your account

*Downloading the HSBC HK Mobile Banking app at a branch may take some time if your internet speed is slow. Therefore, before visiting an HSBC branch, be sure to download the app to your smartphone from the App Store or Google Play

○ Pick up your HSBC bank card at the store

○ You will need to deposit 100 HKD (banknotes) at an HSBC ATM to verify your account for the first time

My impressions after opening an HSBC bank account

○ Expenses incurred for opening an HSBC bank account
, round-trip train fare between Shenzhen and Hong Kong,
and 100 HKD for the initial ATM deposit.
○ If you work or live in mainland China (especially Shenzhen), you may have an advantage in terms of creditworthiness when opening an account.
○ The service and results may vary depending on the bank employee handling your account opening.

Points to note

Even if you meet the necessary requirements as described in this article, it does not necessarily mean that you will be able to open an HSBC bank account

Please be aware that, based on actual cases from other people, especially those who do not reside in Hong Kong, there are cases where even if you visit an HSBC branch, you may be refused an account opening without being given any explanation, or you may even be turned away at the door

summary

Opening an account with HSBC can be a bit of a challenge, but its multi-currency accounts and 24-hour international remittance service are extremely convenient. It also offers comprehensive online account management functions, giving it advantages that other banks lack