Can't Open a Hong Kong Bank Account Without a Passport? This Ultimate Guide Has Got You Covered!

Opening a Hong Kong Bank Account Without a Passport A Step-by-Step Guide

For many mainland residents, having a Hong Kong bank account not only offers more flexible financial management but also facilitates cross-border investments, overseas shopping, and international tuition payments. However, traditionally, opening a Hong Kong bank account has often required a passport or a Mainland Travel Permit to Hong Kong and Macau , which discourages those who haven’t yet obtained one.

In fact, with the continuous improvement of the financial environment and gradual policy relaxation, it is no longer impossible to open a Hong Kong bank account without a passport. Recently, several media outlets have reported that some banks have adjusted their account-opening policies, allowing specific individuals to complete the process using alternative forms of identification under certain conditions.

This guide will walk you through how to open a Hong Kong bank account without a passport.

1. Who Is Eligible for Passport-Free Account Opening?

Not everyone can bypass the passport requirement. Currently, the following groups are more likely to qualify

Individuals with a valid Mainland Travel Permit to Hong Kong and past travel records While the permit alone cannot replace a passport, some banks may accept it as supplementary documentation if there is a verified history of entry into Hong Kong.

Clients with linked accounts at mainland and Hong Kong branches For example, if you hold an account with China Merchants Bank, Bank of China, or ICBC on the mainland, and these banks operate in Hong Kong, you may be able to open a Hong Kong account remotely via a witnessed account opening process.

Holders of long-term residency permits or internationally recognized ID documents This includes certain expatriates or individuals holding long-term visas from other countries, who may apply based on individual circumstances.

2. Witnessed Account Opening Open an Account Without Traveling to Hong Kong

In recent years, Witnessed Account Opening has become a popular method among mainland residents. This process allows you to complete identity verification and submit documents within the mainland, after which your local cooperating bank forwards the materials to its Hong Kong branch for review and final approval.

For instance, in September 2025, China Merchants Bank announced an upgrade to its cross-border financial services, introducing online witnessed account opening. Customers need only bring valid identification to a designated branch, where the process typically takes less than an hour. Once the account is activated, it can be managed via mobile banking apps.

Bank of China Hong Kong has also updated its official website to support mainland clients in opening accounts remotely through the BOC Group’s internal coordination mechanism.

This approach eliminates the need to travel to Hong Kong and significantly lowers the barrier associated with needing a passport.

3. Required Documents and Key Considerations

Even without a passport, you’ll still need to prepare essential documents

Original and copy of your mainland resident ID card

Mainland Travel Permit to Hong Kong and valid Hong Kong/Macau visa if applicable

Proof of address e.g., utility bills, bank statements

Employment and income proof required by some banks

Mobile number capable of receiving international SMS

Please note that requirements may vary slightly between banks. It’s advisable to check the latest policy via the bank’s official website or customer service before applying.

Due to increasingly stringent anti-money laundering AML and know-your-customer KYC regulations, banks may request additional documents or even conduct video interviews. Ensuring accuracy and consistency in your submitted information is crucial-any false data could result in rejection or being blacklisted.

4. Comparison of Popular Banks Which One Suits You Best?

Currently, the main banks supporting passport-free account opening include

Bank Name Supports Witnessed Opening? Passport Required? Notes

---

China Merchants Bank ✅ ❌ Remote account opening supported; streamlined process

Bank of China Hong Kong ✅ ❌ Assistance available via mainland BOC branches

ICBC Asia ✅ ❌ Low entry threshold; suitable for general investors

HSBC ❌ ✅ High passport requirement; remote opening not supported

DBS Bank ❌ ✅ Primarily targets high-net-worth clients

As shown above, HSBC and DBS still require a passport and are not suitable for those without one. In contrast, banks like China Merchants Bank and Bank of China offer more accessible options.

5. Managing Your Account After Opening

After successfully opening your Hong Kong bank account, keep the following points in mind

Account Activation and Initial Deposit Most banks require a small initial deposit usually around HKD 100 within a specified time frame after account creation.

Linking Payment Tools You can link your new Hong Kong account to platforms such as Alipay, WeChat Pay, or PayPal to facilitate cross-border transactions.

Maintenance Fees Some banks charge management fees for accounts with low balances. Regularly monitor your account to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Use and Compliance Hong Kong accounts can be used for investment, stock trading, insurance payments, and more. However, always comply with foreign exchange regulations to avoid violations.

6. Conclusion

With the development of fintech and increasing demand for cross-border financial services, more banks are offering flexible account-opening solutions. Even without a passport, there are now multiple pathways to open a Hong Kong bank account-whether through witnessed opening, existing bank relationships, or special eligibility conditions.

By preparing in advance and understanding the procedures, you can smoothly complete the process. If you're planning to expand your financial horizons, starting with a Hong Kong bank account might just be the first step toward accessing global financial opportunities. After all, it's more than just a card-it's a gateway to the world of international finance.