Hong Kong – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Hong Kong, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Hong Kong’s assigned country code is 852, which callers abroad must dial after their country’s international exit prefix when attempting to reach a Hong Kong number. To place such a call, dial your international access code (commonly 00 across most of Europe and Asia, or 011 from North America), then 852, then the full eight-digit local number. On a mobile handset, the + symbol can substitute for any exit code: +852 XXXX XXXX.

All telephone numbers in Hong Kong are eight digits in length. Fixed-line numbers begin with the digit 2 or 3, whereas mobile numbers open with 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 — a handy visual indicator that immediately tells you whether you are about to call a landline or a mobile phone.

Since late 1989, Hong Kong has operated without any internal area codes. This sets it apart from countries like the United States, Australia, or France, where a regional prefix must precede the subscriber number. Across all of Hong Kong — whether your call originates from Central, Kowloon, the New Territories, or Lantau Island — you simply dial the eight-digit number outright, with no prefix and no leading zero to omit when calling from overseas, since the local numbering system has no trunk prefix to begin with.

Dialling 999 from any telephone line — fixed or mobile — connects you to the emergency services: Police, Fire Service, and Ambulance. For directory assistance, call 1081 for English-language service or 1083 for Cantonese.

In response to the growing prevalence of telephone scams that spoof local Hong Kong numbers, calls that originate from outside the territory but use a local number will now display the +852 prefix ahead of the number in your Caller ID. Should you receive an unanticipated call from a number that appears local but lacks the +852 display prefix, exercise appropriate caution.

Who are the major landline providers in Hong Kong, and how can you contact them?

Hong Kong’s fixed-line telecommunications market has been thoroughly liberalised, with no statutory cap on the number of licences that may be issued for local fixed network services. Genuine competition among providers tends to keep both pricing and service standards favourable for consumers. The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) publishes a comprehensive, up-to-date register of all licensed operators on its website.

HKT holds the largest share of Hong Kong’s residential fixed-line market and is typically the first provider newcomers encounter. Its Home Phone Service delivers reliable fixed-line telephony and a Broadband Phone (VoIP) option with clear call quality and a suite of value-added features. HKT’s fixed-line customer service hotline is 1000; full plan details and current pricing can be found at hkt.com — it is always worth checking the official website directly, as tariffs are updated periodically.

The principal fixed-line operators you are likely to come across are listed in the table below. Contact information is drawn from OFCA’s official register of local fixed network operators:

One feature of Hong Kong’s landline market that pleasantly surprises many newcomers is that local calls from a fixed-line phone are generally free of charge — a meaningful contrast to numerous other countries where even short local calls are metered. International calls are billed separately; every provider offers IDD plans, and rates vary considerably between operators, so it is worth comparing options on each provider’s website before committing to a plan.

China Mobile Hong Kong offers a distinctive service called “Duo Hao Tong,” an app-based solution that links your fixed-line number to your mobile so you can make and receive calls on that number wherever you happen to be. If you want the professional credibility of a dedicated landline number without being tethered to a desk phone, this kind of flexible service is worth investigating.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Hong Kong, and how can you contact them?

Hong Kong is served by four licensed mobile network operators: China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited, Hong Kong Telecommunications (HKT) Limited, Hutchison Telephone Company Limited (3HK), and SmarTone Mobile Communications Limited. Beyond these four network operators, as of March 2024 there were 24 registered Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) reselling services across the underlying four networks.

Within Hong Kong’s intensely competitive mobile market, HKT and China Mobile Hong Kong have established dominant positions through broad portfolio offerings spanning mobile, broadband, and 5G, underpinned by substantial infrastructure investment. HKBN and SmarTone have carved out their own niches by placing particular emphasis on customer-centric innovation, pricing flexibility, and service personalisation.

Contact details for all four mobile network operators, as listed by OFCA, are set out in the table below. Because tariffs change frequently, always verify current plan pricing on each operator’s official website.

An independent 5G network road test conducted by SmarTone in August 2024 assessed all 18 districts of Hong Kong — encompassing major roads, expressways, tunnels, and bridges — and recorded 5G signal presence in every district. Across all four operators, coverage is generally outstanding throughout the urban districts of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the principal New Territories towns. Even in comparatively remote areas such as the Sai Kung Peninsula or on the outlying islands, 4G connectivity is widely available, with 5G infrastructure expanding steadily.

As of March 2023, Hong Kong’s mobile penetration rate was estimated at 282% relative to a population exceeding 7.473 million, with approximately 21.61 million active public mobile subscriptions — placing it among the very highest penetration rates globally. This fierce market competition keeps prices keen and data allowances generous. Check each provider’s website for pricing current as of 2025.

How do I get a landline connected in Hong Kong?

Arranging a landline connection in Hong Kong is a relatively painless experience, particularly through the market-leading provider HKT. Whether you rent or own your property makes little fundamental difference to the process, although tenants in older buildings may find that legacy PCCW infrastructure is already in place. Here is a general outline of what to expect:

1. Select your provider. Review and compare plans from HKT, HKBN, HGC, and other licensed operators. Think about whether a traditional PSTN line, a VoIP broadband phone service, or a bundled broadband-and-phone package best suits your needs. HKT’s fixed-line offering runs on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) or Next Generation Network (NGN), while its Broadband Phone (VoIP) option is delivered over NETVIGATOR fibre broadband infrastructure.
2. Submit your application online or in person. Every major provider accepts applications through its website. Alternatively, you can walk into a provider’s retail shop or telephone their customer service line. HKT’s customer hotline is 1000; HKBN’s is 128 100.
3. Gather the required documents. You will need a valid passport or Hong Kong identity card, together with proof of your residential address. Acceptable proof of address typically includes a tenancy agreement, a recent utility bill, or an official government letter sent to your Hong Kong address. Newcomers who have not yet received any utility correspondence can use their tenancy agreement instead.
4. Schedule installation. HKT’s Home Phone Service includes on-site installation, complimentary maintenance, and around-the-clock technical hotline support. Lead times vary by provider and location, but in areas already served by existing infrastructure, installation is commonly completed within a few business days to one week. Confirm current scheduling directly with your chosen provider.
5. Review deposit and contract requirements. Some providers impose a minimum contract duration or conduct a credit check before approving an application. If you are newly arrived in Hong Kong and have not yet built a local credit history, a security deposit may be required. Ask each provider about their current requirements at the time of application.

You are free to approach any fixed network operator directly to enquire about their coverage and service offerings before making your choice. For regulatory guidance and the full register of licensed operators, visit the OFCA website. The GovHK fixed-line services page also contains practical consumer advice on what to consider when taking out a subscription.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Hong Kong?

Getting a mobile connection up and running in Hong Kong is refreshingly simple from the moment you land. Both prepaid SIM cards and postpaid contracts are readily accessible to newcomers, and the process involves considerably less bureaucracy than in many other countries — unlike, say, Germany or Japan, where SIM registration entails more involved documentation requirements, Hong Kong’s procedure is swift and can often be wrapped up in a matter of minutes.

Prepaid SIM cards are sold at operator retail outlets, counters at Hong Kong International Airport, and convenience stores throughout the city. Hong Kong’s dense network of 24/7 convenience chains — including 7-Eleven, Circle K, and VanGo — stocks a variety of SIM options, most suited to short-term use but with some cards available for ongoing top-up over a longer period. Presenting a valid passport or Hong Kong ID card for SIM registration is a statutory requirement.

Postpaid (contract) plans are open to both residents and non-residents, though applicants without an established local credit history may be asked to pay a deposit or accept a longer initial contract term. In addition to your passport or Hong Kong ID card, you will need to provide proof of a local address — a tenancy agreement or a recent utility bill typically suffice. All four major operators offer a wide range of postpaid plans; visit their shops or websites to compare and confirm current pricing, as plans in Hong Kong evolve frequently.

To sign up for a contract plan, follow these steps:

1. Decide on your network and plan. Evaluate the four main operators — HKT (csl./1010), 3 (Hutchison), SmarTone, and CMHK — via their official websites or by visiting a retail location. Pay attention to data allowances, international roaming terms, and any Greater Bay Area cross-border bundles if regular travel to mainland China is part of your routine.
2. Head to a store or apply online. Every mobile network operator in Hong Kong maintains multiple retail outlets across the territory, where staff can walk you through available SIM options and help identify the most suitable plan for your circumstances.
3. Present your identification. Bring your passport (and your Hong Kong ID card if you already have one) along with evidence of your Hong Kong address. New arrivals may use their visa, entry stamp, and tenancy agreement in combination.
4. Complete registration and activate your SIM. Activation is generally immediate. For prepaid users, additional credit can be purchased at convenience stores, ATMs, through the operator’s website, or via the provider’s mobile app.

Before purchasing a SIM card, confirm that your handset is unlocked and compatible with the network frequencies used in Hong Kong. Most internationally sold smartphones will be, but store staff can verify this for you and assist with initial SIM setup if needed.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Hong Kong?

All major providers issue monthly bills for postpaid landline and mobile services. Hong Kong’s highly developed financial ecosystem translates into an exceptionally broad array of payment channels for consumers.

You can settle bills in person at a provider’s own outlets or authorised retail agents, by online banking or direct bank transfer, or through an automatic direct debit arrangement linked to your bank account. Most operators support payment via their own mobile apps, and many also accept payment by SMS instruction. Hong Kong’s Faster Payment System (FPS) and widely used e-wallets — including PayMe, Alipay HK, and WeChat Pay — are accepted by the majority of operators, affording a level of payment flexibility that compares very favourably with markets where cheque or bank transfer remain the dominant options.

Topping up a prepaid mobile account is equally convenient: credit can be purchased at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Circle K, VanGo), ATMs, the operator’s website, or its app. All four principal operators offer automatic top-up by credit card, a popular choice for those who prefer uninterrupted service without manual intervention.

Paying on time is important — delayed or missed payments can lead to service interruption and additional charges. If you find yourself unable to meet a payment deadline, contact your provider promptly to discuss possible arrangements. PCCW levies a quarterly infrastructure charge for use of its line; failure to pay can result in disconnection, after which the outstanding balance plus a reactivation fee must be paid before service resumes. Disconnection policies across providers broadly mirror those in other developed markets, with reminder notices issued before any suspension is applied.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Hong Kong as a newcomer?

International roaming: All four of Hong Kong’s mobile network operators offer international roaming packages, and many postpaid plans incorporate roaming data bundles covering mainland China and other frequently visited destinations at competitive rates. China Mobile Hong Kong’s cross-border plans, for instance, allow shared roaming data across Hong Kong and the mainland with no additional data charges for mainland usage — consumption is simply drawn from your subscribed package. If trips to mainland China are a regular feature of your life, it is worth comparing dedicated cross-border SIM products, as these can deliver meaningful savings over standard roaming rates.

Number portability: Hong Kong operates full mobile number portability, which means switching operators does not require you to change your number — a significant convenience for anyone who needs continuity of contact while moving between services. The porting process is typically completed within one to two business days and is handled by your incoming provider rather than your current one, so simply approach the operator you wish to join and they will manage the transfer on your behalf.

eSIM availability: Each of the four major Hong Kong operators supports eSIM on compatible devices, and a growing number of MVNOs offer eSIM-only plans that can be activated entirely online, either before departure or immediately upon arrival. This is particularly practical if you wish to add a local Hong Kong number to a device that already carries a foreign SIM, without the need to swap physical cards. Check individual operator websites for current eSIM plan availability — the market is developing rapidly as of 2025.

Coverage quality: Network coverage is exceptional across Hong Kong’s urban and suburban areas, including underground MTR stations, road tunnels, and most multi-storey buildings. SmarTone’s August 2024 5G road test, which covered all 18 districts including major expressways, tunnels, and bridges, confirmed 5G signal in every district. On the outlying islands — Cheung Chau, Lamma, Peng Chau, and others — 4G LTE connectivity is generally reliable, though 5G availability may be confined to ferry piers and main populated areas.

Retaining a foreign number: There is no mechanism through which an overseas mobile number can be ported into the Hong Kong network, so you will need to acquire a fresh Hong Kong number. That said, many people simply keep their foreign SIM running in a second SIM slot or as an eSIM alongside their new Hong Kong number. Given Hong Kong’s highly competitive mobile tariffs, operating two numbers on a single device is an entirely affordable arrangement.

Local customs and usage: WhatsApp is overwhelmingly the dominant messaging platform in Hong Kong, used routinely for both personal and professional communication — it functions as a basic tool of daily city life rather than merely a social app. A local Hong Kong number is essential for WhatsApp registration and is also required by many local services, banking applications, and government platforms that use SMS for identity verification. Securing a local number as soon as possible after arrival is strongly advisable.

For regulatory matters, consumer complaints about telecoms providers, or questions about your rights as a subscriber, the appropriate authority to contact is the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA), Hong Kong’s telecommunications regulator. OFCA’s website features a dedicated consumer section with detailed guidance on how to lodge complaints and what service standards you are entitled to expect.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Hong Kong?

It is not possible to port an overseas mobile number into the Hong Kong numbering system — local number portability applies exclusively to numbers already within Hong Kong. You will therefore need to obtain a new Hong Kong number. Many newcomers address this by keeping their foreign SIM active alongside their Hong Kong SIM, using either a dual-SIM handset or an eSIM for one of the two numbers; Hong Kong’s competitive mobile pricing makes running both numbers simultaneously a practical and affordable solution.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Hong Kong?

For a prepaid SIM, presenting a valid passport or identity document is typically all that is required — no local address is necessary. For a postpaid contract, proof of a Hong Kong address is usually needed alongside your identity document; a tenancy agreement is generally accepted for this purpose. New arrivals who have not yet received any utility bills can use their tenancy agreement as address verification from the outset.

Can tourists and new arrivals get a postpaid mobile contract in Hong Kong?

Yes — postpaid contracts are not limited to permanent residents of Hong Kong. If you lack a local credit history, however, the operator may ask for a security deposit or require a minimum contract commitment. Prepaid SIM cards are available to anyone holding a valid passport and represent an excellent starting point when you first arrive, allowing you the time to settle in and evaluate postpaid options carefully before committing.

How long does it take to get a landline installed?

Where existing infrastructure is already in place, installation is typically arranged within a few business days. In buildings or locations that require new cabling to be laid, the lead time may extend to one to two weeks. For the most accurate scheduling information, contact your chosen provider directly. HKT’s hotline is 1000; HKBN’s is 128 100.

Is 5G available in Hong Kong, and which operator has the best coverage?

5G is extensively deployed across Hong Kong, with all four mobile network operators — HKT, 3HK, SmarTone, and CMHK — offering 5G services. SmarTone’s independent road test in August 2024 verified 5G signal presence across all 18 districts of the territory. Interactive coverage maps are published on each operator’s official website, and OFCA also releases network performance data to facilitate comparison between providers.

What is the emergency services number in Hong Kong?

Dialling 999 from any fixed or mobile telephone connects you to the emergency services — Police, Fire Service, and Ambulance. For non-emergency police enquiries, the number to call is 2527 7177. An SMS emergency reporting service for subscribers with disabilities is also available via 992.

How does number porting work in Hong Kong if I switch mobile providers?

The number porting process in Hong Kong is uncomplicated. Rather than contacting your current provider, approach the operator you wish to move to — they will initiate and manage the transfer process on your behalf. You will be asked to supply your existing number and relevant identity documentation. Porting is usually finalised within one to two business days, during which a brief interruption to service may occur. No fee is charged to consumers for number porting in Hong Kong.

Where can I find official information about telecoms consumer rights in Hong Kong?

The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) serves as Hong Kong’s principal telecommunications regulator. Its website at ofca.gov.hk contains consumer guidance, the full register of licensed operators, complaints procedures, and information on applicable service standards. The GovHK portal at gov.hk provides accessible plain-language summaries of both fixed-line and mobile services for residents.