Hong Kong Expat

Most expat families relocate to Hong Kong through the main breadwinner's job, usually the husband's. Some spouses don't expect to work and some do, only to find that they are unemployable in the world-class job market of Hong Kong. You'll need to factor this possibility into account if you are budgeting on both partners working in Hong Kong. Married spouses of partners holding valid work visas are however permitted to work when sponsored by their spouses.

Non-working spouses lack the work-based support with it's associated social support structure that their partners enjoy. With families and friends many thousands of miles away and a partner working and socializing long hours, the demands of setting up a home can call fall entirely on an unsupported spouse. This situation puts strains on domestic relationships and can, in extreme cases result in the relocation failing.

To minimize the chances of this happening:

Where possible engage the services of an orientation consultant. See the contact us page. They will guide you through the move according to your needs. Some real estate agents offer a similar service, but their primary driver is to lease you a property not get you settled.
Do your research and prepare for the move prior to arrival. Know what you need to arrange (schools, accommodation, ID cards etc.) and understand what is involved.
Get out and meet people independently and as a couple. Join a social club, a gym and enrol in orientation courses at the YWCA.

Hong Kong has numerous clubs for working and non-working spouses, like the Ladies Recreation Club (Tel: +852 2522 0151), American Women's Association, Women's Forum and Women Business Owners Club.

Most people soon get into the 'networking' culture. Everyone is either be in the same situation or will remember being in that situation not so long ago. You'll soon build up a broad range of social contacts that will soon keep you as occupied as you want to be. Don't expect people to come to you though - you have to get out and participate. You will find that you'll be meeting new people throughout your stay in Hong Kong. It can be quite a transient place, with many executives only on a 2-3 year secondment. Every year some of your 'new' friends will depart and there will be even 'newer' arrivals to take their place. In no time people will be looking to you for advice!