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Prepaid SIM Cards in Hong Kong

Unusually for such an expensive city, mobile communications in Hong Kong are very cheap. Coverage is just about universal on the bigger networks and many people opt to use a contract SIM rather than a landline at home. There are also a vast array of prepaid options and promotions available to everyone.

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased everywhere and all branches of 7-Eleven for example have cards from all networks. This is a good option if you are bringing your existing phone with you to Hong Kong and need to get set up with a local number quickly.

Competition is so fierce, there is usually little to distinguish between the offers and many people simply go for the best network coverage... and as for expats, the international call rates are often the most important consideration. Most SIM cards will cost around HK$100 and come with some stored credit.

Long term, it will likely be more cost effective for you to go to a contract SIM card, or annual plan. If you already have a prepaid SIM with a number you like, you won't lose this number if you go to a contract plan, as number portability is available, even between operators.

It's worth noting that in Hong Kong, it is often the person receiving the call on their mobile that pays for the call but it is so cheap it's hardly an issue.

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