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Emigrant Asset Recovery移民資產回收 2026-03-10 35 min read閱讀時間 35 分鐘

Forgotten Assets in Hong Kong: A Complete Guide for Emigrants and Their Families

香港遺留資產完全指南：移民及其家人必讀

Since 2019, over 300,000 Hong Kong residents have emigrated to the UK, Canada, Australia, and beyond. Many left behind bank accounts, MPF savings, insurance policies, property interests, share portfolios, and government refunds worth billions of dollars collectively. This guide covers every type of asset commonly left behind, how to search for and recover them remotely, and what happens if an emigrant dies overseas without having consolidated their Hong Kong finances.

自2019年以來，超過30萬名香港居民移民至英國、加拿大、澳洲等地。許多人留下了銀行帳戶、強積金儲蓄、保險保單、物業權益、股票組合及政府退款，總值達數十億港元。本指南涵蓋所有常見遺留資產類型、如何從海外遠程搜索和回收這些資產，以及移民在海外身故而未整合香港財務時的處理方法。

Table of Contents

  1. The Scale of the Problem: Hong Kong's Emigration Waves
  2. Common Assets Left Behind by Emigrants
  3. Bank Accounts: Managing from Abroad
  4. MPF: Withdrawing on Grounds of Permanent Departure
  5. Insurance Policies: Maintain, Surrender, or Claim from Overseas
  6. Property: Managing and Selling Remotely
  7. Stocks and Securities
  8. Tax Clearance: IRD Requirements When Leaving Hong Kong
  9. Government Benefits and Refunds
  10. How to Remotely Search for Assets from Overseas
  11. What Happens If an Emigrant Dies Overseas
  12. Pre-Emigration Asset Checklist

1. The Scale of the Problem: Hong Kong's Emigration Waves

Hong Kong has experienced two major emigration waves in living memory, each leaving behind a trail of forgotten financial assets that families are still trying to recover decades later.

The 1990s Wave: Pre-Handover Anxiety

In the years leading up to the 1997 handover of sovereignty from Britain to China, an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 Hong Kong residents emigrated, primarily to Canada, Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Many of these emigrants maintained a "foot in both camps" strategy — obtaining foreign passports while keeping Hong Kong property, bank accounts, and business interests as a safety net. Some returned to Hong Kong after the handover proved less disruptive than feared; others never came back and gradually lost track of their Hong Kong assets.

Thirty years later, families of these 1990s emigrants regularly discover forgotten fixed deposit accounts, insurance policies that matured long ago, and share certificates tucked into old filing cabinets. When these emigrants pass away in their adopted countries, their children — often born and raised abroad — frequently have no knowledge of what remains in Hong Kong.

The 2019-2025 Wave: The National Security Law Exodus

The second major wave was triggered by the 2019 social unrest and the subsequent implementation of the National Security Law in June 2020. Hong Kong's labour force shrank by approximately 140,000 individuals from 2020 to 2022. The UK's British National (Overseas) visa pathway alone attracted 191,000 applications by 2024, with an estimated 144,500 people having relocated to the UK by January 2024. When combined with emigration to Canada, Australia, Taiwan, and other destinations, credible estimates place the total post-2019 emigration at 300,000 or more.

Unlike the 1990s wave, many recent emigrants departed in haste — some within weeks of deciding to leave. This urgency meant that financial housekeeping was incomplete. Bank accounts were left open "just in case," MPF balances were deferred for later withdrawal, insurance premiums lapsed without formal surrender, and property was left in the hands of relatives without proper powers of attorney.

The Dormancy Trap: Hong Kong banks classify accounts as "dormant" after periods of inactivity ranging from 6 to 24 months. Once an account is dormant, the bank may freeze it, impose reactivation fees, or — in some cases — close it and hold the balance. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a circular in November 2021 setting expectations for banks on handling dormant accounts and unclaimed deposits, but the onus remains on account holders to keep their accounts active.

2. Common Assets Left Behind by Emigrants

Through our work with emigrant families, we have identified the following asset types that are most frequently left behind or forgotten:

Asset Type Typical Value Range How Easily Forgotten Recovery Difficulty
Bank savings/fixed deposits HK$10,000 – HK$5,000,000+ Medium Low-Medium
MPF accrued benefits HK$100,000 – HK$2,000,000+ High Low
Life insurance / savings plans HK$50,000 – HK$10,000,000+ High Medium
Property (sole or co-owned) HK$2,000,000 – HK$50,000,000+ Low High
Stocks / securities / bonds HK$10,000 – HK$5,000,000+ High Medium-High
Government tax refunds HK$1,000 – HK$100,000+ Very High Low
Utility / rental deposits HK$5,000 – HK$100,000 Very High Low-Medium
Safe deposit boxes Unknown Medium High

3. Bank Accounts: Managing from Abroad

Hong Kong bank accounts are the most common asset left behind by emigrants. The city's banking system is robust and well-regulated, but banks have become increasingly strict about Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, making remote account management a challenge.

Understanding Account Dormancy

Different banks have different dormancy thresholds. Generally, if there have been no customer-initiated transactions (deposits, withdrawals, transfers, or even logins to internet banking) for 12 to 24 months, the bank may classify the account as dormant. Key points:

  • HSBC considers an account dormant after 24 months of no customer-initiated activity. Interest credits and bank charges do not count as activity.
  • Hang Seng Bank follows a similar 24-month rule aligned with HSBC group policy.
  • Bank of China (Hong Kong) may flag accounts after 12 months of inactivity.
  • Standard Chartered and DBS may apply dormancy after 12 to 18 months.

Once dormant, the account is typically frozen. You cannot make online transfers, and ATM cards may be deactivated. To reactivate, you usually need to visit a branch in person with identification — a significant hurdle for someone who has emigrated.

HSBC One: The Emigrant's Best Friend

HSBC One (formerly HSBC Premier) deserves special mention because of its global transferability feature. If you hold an HSBC account in Hong Kong, you can open linked HSBC accounts in the UK, Australia, Canada, Singapore, and other countries. This allows you to:

  • Transfer funds between HSBC accounts in different countries instantly and fee-free
  • Maintain your Hong Kong account as "active" through periodic global transfers
  • Access customer service through your local HSBC branch for issues with your Hong Kong account
Practical Tip: If you still have an active Hong Kong bank account and are planning to emigrate, set up a small recurring monthly transfer (even HK$100) between your Hong Kong account and an overseas account. This keeps the account active and prevents dormancy classification.

Virtual Banks: A Modern Alternative

Hong Kong's virtual banks (ZA Bank, Mox, Airstar, livi, WeLab Bank, Ant Bank, Fusion Bank, and PAO Bank) offer a potential workaround for emigrants. These banks operate entirely through mobile apps with no physical branches. You can open an account remotely if you still hold a valid Hong Kong ID, and manage all transactions through the app from anywhere in the world. However, note that some virtual banks may require a Hong Kong phone number for SMS verification, and their deposit protection is limited to HK$500,000 per bank under the HKDPS scheme.

Recovering a Dormant Bank Account from Overseas

Step 1

Gather Documentation

Collect your original bank statements, passbooks, ATM cards, or any correspondence from the bank. You will need your Hong Kong ID number and the account number(s).

Step 2

Contact the Bank

Call the bank's international customer service line. HSBC Hong Kong: +852 2233 3000. Hang Seng: +852 2822 0228. Bank of China (HK): +852 3988 2388. Standard Chartered: +852 2886 8868.

Step 3

Identity Verification

The bank will require you to verify your identity. This may involve answering security questions, providing scanned copies of your HKID and passport, and in some cases, having documents notarised or apostilled in your country of residence.

Step 4

Reactivation or Closure

Request either reactivation (if you want to keep the account) or closure with a telegraphic transfer of the balance to your overseas account. Some banks may require an in-person visit for reactivation but can process closure and fund transfer by mail with notarised documents.

Step 5

Appoint a Representative

If in-person presence is absolutely required, consider granting a Power of Attorney to a trusted person in Hong Kong. The POA must be executed before a notary public in your country and may need to be apostilled or authenticated by a Chinese consulate.

4. MPF: Withdrawing on Grounds of Permanent Departure

The Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) is one of the most commonly forgotten assets among emigrants. According to MPFA data as of June 2024, permanent departures from Hong Kong accounted for 13% of all MPF withdrawals — the third-largest reason after retirement at age 65 (55%) and offsetting severance/long service payments (18%).

Eligibility for Early Withdrawal

Under the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance (Cap. 485), you can withdraw your MPF accrued benefits early if you have permanently departed Hong Kong with no intention of returning for employment or permanent residence. The key requirements are:

  • You must have left Hong Kong (or plan to leave)
  • You must make a statutory declaration that you have permanently departed or intend to permanently depart and have no intention of returning to Hong Kong for employment or to take up permanent residence
  • You can only make this claim once in your lifetime — the MPFA tracks this across all trustees
One-Time Only: The permanent departure ground can only be used once. If you withdraw your MPF on this basis and later return to Hong Kong and re-enter the workforce, any new MPF contributions cannot be withdrawn early on the same ground. This is a statutory restriction and there are no exceptions.

Step-by-Step MPF Withdrawal Process

Step 1

Locate All MPF Accounts

If you have worked for multiple employers, you likely have multiple MPF accounts across different trustees. Use the MPFA's online enquiry service or call the MPF hotline at +852 2918 0102 to trace all your accounts. You can also check through the eMPF platform at empf.org.hk.

Step 2

Complete the Claim Form

Download Form MPF(S)-W(P) from the MPFA website or your trustee's website. This is the standard form for claiming benefits on grounds of permanent departure.

Step 3

Make a Statutory Declaration

You must complete a statutory declaration (included in the form) stating that you have permanently departed Hong Kong. If you are already overseas, this can be done before a notary public, commissioner for oaths, or at a Chinese consulate/embassy.

Step 4

Provide Supporting Documents

You will need: (a) copy of your HKID, (b) copy of your passport showing departure stamps or a visa for your new country, (c) proof of your overseas address, and (d) your overseas bank account details for receiving the payment.

Step 5

Submit to Each Trustee

Unlike some processes, you must submit a separate withdrawal claim to each MPF trustee that holds your accounts. The trustees include Manulife, HSBC, AIA, Sun Life, Bank of China, Bank Consortium, and others.

Step 6

Receive Payment

Processing typically takes 30 to 60 working days. The trustee will pay out the full balance including both mandatory and voluntary contributions, minus any fees. Payment can be made by cheque or telegraphic transfer to your overseas bank account.

Tax Note: MPF withdrawals are not subject to tax in Hong Kong. However, you should check the tax laws in your new country of residence — some countries (such as Australia) may treat the MPF withdrawal as assessable foreign income.

5. Insurance Policies: Maintain, Surrender, or Claim from Overseas

Hong Kong has one of the highest insurance penetration rates in the world, and many residents hold multiple life insurance and savings-linked insurance policies. When emigrants leave Hong Kong, these policies are frequently overlooked — especially employer-provided group insurance that may have portable components, or small savings plans purchased years ago.

Types of Policies Commonly Left Behind

  • Whole-of-life policies — These remain in force as long as premiums are paid. If premiums lapse, the policy may enter an "automatic premium loan" phase, drawing from its cash value before eventually lapsing completely.
  • Endowment / savings plans — These have a maturity date. If you do not claim the maturity benefit, the insurer holds the funds. After a period, it may be classified as unclaimed.
  • Critical illness / medical riders — These typically lapse when premiums stop.
  • ILAS (Investment-Linked Assurance Schemes) — These are investment-heavy insurance products. Their value fluctuates with the market and ongoing management fees can erode the balance if left unattended.

Options for Emigrants

Continue the Policy

If the policy has good returns and you can pay premiums via autopay from your HK bank account, keeping it may make sense. Ensure your contact details are updated with the insurer. Most Hong Kong insurers accept overseas policyholders.

Surrender for Cash Value

If you no longer need the coverage, surrender the policy and receive its cash value. This can be done by mail from overseas. Contact the insurer for a surrender form and provide notarised identification.

Do NOT Simply Stop Paying

Stopping premium payments without formally surrendering means the policy will lapse after the grace period. You may lose the cash value entirely if the policy enters an automatic premium loan and the cash value is exhausted. Always formally surrender.

Do NOT Assume the Policy Disappeared

Insurers are required to hold unclaimed maturity benefits and death benefits indefinitely. Even if a policy lapsed 20 years ago, there may be a residual cash value or unclaimed maturity benefit. Always check.

Claiming a Deceased Emigrant's Insurance

If the policyholder has passed away overseas, the named beneficiary can claim the death benefit directly — life insurance proceeds are generally not part of the estate and do not require a Grant of Probate. The beneficiary needs:

  • Original or certified copy of the death certificate (with apostille or consular authentication if issued overseas)
  • Policy documents (if available)
  • Beneficiary's identification
  • Proof of relationship to the deceased
  • Completed claim form from the insurer

If no beneficiary was designated, the death benefit forms part of the estate and the executor or administrator must apply with Letters of Probate or Administration.

6. Property: Managing and Selling Remotely

Property is typically the largest single asset an emigrant may leave behind. Hong Kong residential property values remain among the highest in the world, and even a small flat in the New Territories can be worth several million Hong Kong dollars.

Common Scenarios

  • Rented out through an agent: Many emigrants rent out their property. This works well initially but can become complicated when the property needs repairs, tenants change, or the emigrant's Hong Kong bank account becomes dormant.
  • Left with relatives: Some emigrants allow relatives to live in the property informally. Without a proper tenancy agreement or power of attorney, complications arise when the emigrant wants to sell.
  • Vacant: A surprising number of properties are simply left vacant, with management fees accumulating unpaid.
  • Co-owned: Joint tenancy or tenancy in common arrangements with family members create particular challenges when one co-owner emigrates.

Selling Property from Overseas

You do not need to return to Hong Kong to sell your property, but the process requires careful preparation:

Step 1

Grant a Power of Attorney

Execute a specific Power of Attorney authorising a trusted person (family member, solicitor, or professional agent) to sign the Provisional Agreement for Sale and Purchase, the formal Agreement, and the Assignment on your behalf. The POA must be notarised and authenticated as required by the Hong Kong Land Registry.

Step 2

Engage a Hong Kong Solicitor

The solicitor will handle the conveyancing, ensure clear title, deal with the Land Registry, and arrange the financial settlement. Many Hong Kong solicitors are accustomed to acting for overseas clients and can communicate by email and video call.

Step 3

Clear Outstanding Obligations

Before completion, ensure that all management fees, rates, government rent, and outstanding mortgage payments (if any) are settled. The solicitor will typically handle this from the sale proceeds.

Step 4

Receive Sale Proceeds

The solicitor can arrange a telegraphic transfer of the net sale proceeds to your overseas bank account. Note that large remittances may trigger anti-money laundering checks by both the sending and receiving banks.

Special Buyer's Stamp Duty (SSD): If you sell within 2 years of purchase, SSD of 10-20% applies. Additionally, non-permanent residents face a 15% Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) on purchases, but as a seller this is not your concern. Check the latest stamp duty rates before selling.

7. Stocks and Securities

Hong Kong has a vibrant stock market, and many residents hold shares through brokerage accounts, nominee accounts, or even physical share certificates. Emigrant-related issues with stocks include:

Brokerage Accounts

Online brokerage accounts (Futu/moomoo, Interactive Brokers, HSBC InvestDirect, Phillip Securities, etc.) may become dormant if not accessed. Most brokers will continue to hold your securities indefinitely, but:

  • Inactivity fees may be charged (typically HK$50-100/month after 6-12 months of no trading)
  • Dividend payments will accumulate in the cash account
  • Corporate actions (rights issues, bonus shares) will be processed automatically in nominee accounts
  • If you do not respond to corporate action notices (e.g., a privatisation offer), you may lose value

Physical Share Certificates

Older Hong Kong investors may still hold physical share certificates. These are still valid and represent genuine ownership. See our detailed guide on finding lost shares and investments for the full process of verifying and converting physical certificates.

Managing from Overseas

Most online brokers allow full access from overseas. However, some Hong Kong-only brokers may restrict access from certain jurisdictions due to regulatory requirements. If your broker restricts overseas access, contact them to discuss options — which may include transferring your holdings to another broker with international access or selling and closing the account.

8. Tax Clearance: IRD Requirements When Leaving Hong Kong

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) requires tax clearance for anyone who is chargeable to tax and intends to leave Hong Kong for more than one month. This is a legal requirement under the Inland Revenue Ordinance, and non-compliance can result in penalties and complications if you ever return to Hong Kong.

The Tax Clearance Process

Step 1

Employer Notification

Your employer must notify the IRD at least one month before your departure by filing Form IR56G (for cessation of employment) or IR56F (if the employee is leaving for more than one month). During this period, your employer is legally required to withhold any payments (salary, bonuses, commission) owed to you.

Step 2

File Outstanding Tax Returns

The IRD will issue a final tax return (BIR60) that you must complete, generally within 14 days. This covers your income from 1 April of the current tax year to your last day of employment.

Step 3

Settle Tax Liabilities

Pay any outstanding tax. The IRD will assess your final tax and issue a demand note. This must be settled before you can receive your Letter of Release.

Step 4

Receive Letter of Release

Once all tax matters are settled, the IRD issues a Letter of Release. Your employer can then release any withheld payments to you. Keep this document — it confirms your Hong Kong tax obligations are fully discharged.

Self-Employed or Property Owners: If you are self-employed or derive income from Hong Kong property, you must also notify the IRD directly and settle any outstanding Profits Tax or Property Tax before departing. The IRD will issue a Letter of Release once satisfied.

What If You Left Without Tax Clearance?

Many emigrants in the recent wave departed without completing tax clearance. This can result in:

  • Outstanding tax assessments accumulating penalties and surcharges
  • Your former employer being held liable for tax your employer should have withheld
  • Difficulty if you return to Hong Kong even temporarily
  • Complications when selling Hong Kong property or closing bank accounts, as the IRD can place a departure prevention order

If you left without clearance, you can still resolve the situation by writing to the IRD, filing outstanding returns, and settling any tax owed. The IRD's address for correspondence is: Inland Revenue Department, Revenue Tower, 5 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Phone: +852 187 8088.

9. Government Benefits and Refunds

Several types of government-related money are commonly forgotten by emigrants:

Tax Refunds

If you overpaid provisional salaries tax (which is common if you left mid-year), you may be entitled to a refund. The IRD will calculate this as part of the tax clearance process, but if you did not complete tax clearance, the refund sits uncollected. Contact the IRD to claim it.

Utility Deposits

  • CLP Power / HK Electric: Electricity supply deposits (typically HK$400-2,000) are refundable when you terminate your account.
  • Towngas: Gas supply deposits are similarly refundable.
  • Water: The Water Supplies Department does not charge a deposit, but if you have a credit balance on your account, this can be refunded.

Housing Authority Refunds

If you surrendered a public rental housing unit, any credit balance or refundable deposits should have been returned. If not, contact the Housing Authority.

Court Deposits and Government Fees

Less commonly, emigrants may have outstanding court deposits, bail bonds, or refundable government fees that were never collected.

Practical Tip: The amounts for utility deposits and small government refunds may seem insignificant individually, but they add up. We have seen cases where an emigrant recovered over HK$15,000 in forgotten utility deposits and tax refunds combined.

11. What Happens If an Emigrant Dies Overseas

This is the most complex scenario and unfortunately increasingly common. When a Hong Kong emigrant dies in another country, their family faces a dual-jurisdiction challenge: they must deal with the estate in the country of death and separately recover any assets remaining in Hong Kong.

The Resealing Process

If a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration has been obtained in a common law jurisdiction (UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore), it can be "resealed" by the Hong Kong High Court under the Probate and Administration Ordinance (Cap. 10). This avoids the need to apply for a fresh grant in Hong Kong. The process involves:

  • Filing an application to the Probate Registry of the Hong Kong High Court
  • Submitting the original or certified copy of the foreign grant, authenticated or apostilled
  • A certified copy of the will (if any)
  • An affidavit of the applicant
  • A schedule of Hong Kong assets

The resealing process typically takes 2 to 4 months if all documents are in order.

For Non-Common Law Jurisdictions

If the emigrant died in a jurisdiction whose grant cannot be resealed (e.g., Taiwan, mainland China, certain European or South American countries), the family must apply for a fresh Grant of Letters of Administration in Hong Kong. This is a more involved process requiring a Hong Kong solicitor and can take 6 to 12 months.

Practical Challenges for Overseas Families

  • Locating assets: The family may have no idea what assets exist in Hong Kong. They must conduct a systematic search as described in Section 10 above.
  • Language barriers: Correspondence with Hong Kong institutions is often in Chinese, which overseas-raised children may not read.
  • Time zone differences: Hong Kong business hours (9am-5pm HKT / GMT+8) make phone calls difficult from Europe or the Americas.
  • Physical presence requirements: Some institutions insist on in-person verification, requiring either a trip to Hong Kong or the appointment of a local representative.
  • Expired identification: The deceased's HKID may have expired, and banks may be reluctant to accept it even for estate claims.
How AssetCadet Helps: We specialise in exactly this situation — acting as the Hong Kong-based representative for overseas families who need to locate and recover a deceased emigrant's assets. We conduct comprehensive asset searches, liaise with banks and institutions on the family's behalf, and coordinate with Hong Kong solicitors for the legal aspects of estate recovery.

12. Pre-Emigration Asset Checklist

If you are planning to emigrate from Hong Kong, use this checklist to ensure nothing is left behind:

Bank Accounts: List all accounts. Decide whether to keep open (set up remote access and activity) or close and transfer balances.
MPF: Record all MPF account numbers and trustee names. Decide whether to withdraw immediately or after departure.
Insurance: List all policies. For each, decide: continue (update address, set up autopay), surrender (apply formally), or convert to paid-up.
Property: If retaining, appoint a property manager or grant POA. If selling, engage a solicitor and estate agent before departure.
Stocks/Securities: Consolidate brokerage accounts. Transfer to an internationally accessible broker or liquidate.
Tax Clearance: Notify employer and complete IRD tax clearance. Keep the Letter of Release.
Utility Deposits: Terminate CLP/HK Electric, Towngas, and broadband accounts. Claim all refundable deposits.
Safe Deposit Boxes: Empty all safe deposit boxes and surrender them to avoid ongoing rental fees.
Vehicles: Sell or de-register any vehicles. Claim any unused insurance or licence refunds.
Company Directorships: Resign from any company directorships. If you own a company, arrange for winding up or transfer of shares.
Postal Redirection: Arrange mail forwarding through Hongkong Post or a private mailbox service for at least 12 months.
Update Beneficiaries: Update beneficiary designations on all insurance policies and investment accounts to reflect your new circumstances.
Will: Update or create a will that covers both your Hong Kong and overseas assets. Consider having separate wills for each jurisdiction.
Power of Attorney: Grant an Enduring Power of Attorney to a trusted person in Hong Kong for any residual matters.
Document Everything: Create a master list of all Hong Kong assets, account numbers, contact details, and login credentials. Store securely and ensure your family knows where to find it.
Final Thought: The single most important thing you can do is create a comprehensive list of all your Hong Kong assets and share it with a trusted family member or your solicitor. Most of the "forgotten assets" we help families recover were not truly forgotten — they were simply never communicated. A one-page asset summary stored with your will could save your family months of searching and thousands of dollars in professional fees.

目錄

  1. 問題規模：香港的移民潮
  2. 移民常見遺留資產
  3. 銀行帳戶：從海外管理
  4. 強積金：以永久離港為由提取
  5. 保險保單：海外維持、退保或索償
  6. 物業：遠程管理和出售
  7. 股票及證券
  8. 稅務清繳：離港時的稅務局要求
  9. 政府福利及退款
  10. 如何從海外遠程搜索資產
  11. 移民在海外身故的處理
  12. 移民前資產清單

1. 問題規模：香港的移民潮

在世人記憶中，香港經歷了兩次重大移民潮，每次都留下大量被遺忘的金融資產，數十年後家庭仍在努力追回。

1990年代移民潮：回歸前的焦慮

在1997年主權移交前的數年間，估計有50萬至70萬香港居民移民，主要目的地為加拿大、澳洲、美國和英國。許多移民採取「兩頭跑」策略 —— 取得外國護照的同時保留香港物業、銀行帳戶和商業利益作為安全網。部分人在回歸後發現情況比預期穩定而回流香港；其他人再也沒有回來，逐漸失去了對香港資產的追蹤。

三十年後，這些1990年代移民的家人經常發現被遺忘的定期存款帳戶、早已到期的保險保單，以及塞在舊文件櫃裡的股票證書。當這些移民在移居國離世時，他們的子女 —— 往往在海外出生和長大 —— 完全不知道香港還有什麼資產。

2019-2025年移民潮：國安法後的移民潮

第二次重大移民潮由2019年社會動盪及隨後2020年6月實施的《國家安全法》引發。2020年至2022年間，香港勞動力縮減了約14萬人。僅英國的BN(O)簽證途徑，截至2024年已有191,000份申請，估計有144,500人已移居英國。加上移民至加拿大、澳洲、台灣等地的人數，可靠估計2019年後的總移民人數超過30萬。

與1990年代不同，許多近期移民匆忙離開 —— 有些人在決定離開後數週內便成行。這種緊迫性意味著財務整理並不完善。銀行帳戶被保留「以防萬一」，強積金結餘被推遲提取，保險保費在沒有正式退保的情況下失效，物業在沒有適當授權書的情況下交給親戚管理。

休眠帳戶陷阱：香港銀行在帳戶不活躍6至24個月後會將其分類為「休眠」帳戶。一旦帳戶被列為休眠，銀行可能會凍結帳戶、收取重新啟動費用，甚至在某些情況下關閉帳戶並持有餘額。香港金融管理局（金管局）在2021年11月發出通告，就認可機構處理休眠帳戶和無人認領存款設定期望，但帳戶持有人仍有責任保持帳戶活躍。

2. 移民常見遺留資產

根據我們協助移民家庭的經驗，以下是最常被遺留或遺忘的資產類型：

資產類型 典型價值範圍 易被遺忘程度 追回難度
銀行儲蓄/定期存款 HK$10,000 – HK$5,000,000+ 中等 低至中
強積金累算權益 HK$100,000 – HK$2,000,000+ 高 低
人壽保險/儲蓄計劃 HK$50,000 – HK$10,000,000+ 高 中等
物業（獨有或共有） HK$2,000,000 – HK$50,000,000+ 低 高
股票/證券/債券 HK$10,000 – HK$5,000,000+ 高 中至高
政府稅務退款 HK$1,000 – HK$100,000+ 極高 低
公用事業/租金按金 HK$5,000 – HK$100,000 極高 低至中
保管箱 不定 中等 高

3. 銀行帳戶：從海外管理

香港銀行帳戶是移民最常遺留的資產。香港銀行體系穩健且受到良好監管，但銀行對「認識你的客戶」(KYC) 要求越來越嚴格，使遠程帳戶管理變得具有挑戰性。

了解帳戶休眠

不同銀行有不同的休眠門檻。一般而言，如果12至24個月內沒有客戶發起的交易（存款、提款、轉帳或甚至登入網上銀行），銀行可能會將帳戶分類為休眠。要點如下：

  • 滙豐銀行在24個月無客戶發起活動後視帳戶為休眠。利息入帳和銀行收費不算作活動。
  • 恒生銀行遵循與滙豐集團一致的24個月規則。
  • 中國銀行（香港）可能在12個月不活躍後標記帳戶。
  • 渣打銀行和星展銀行可能在12至18個月後適用休眠規則。

一旦休眠，帳戶通常會被凍結。您無法進行網上轉帳，提款卡可能會被停用。要重新啟動，通常需要帶同身份證明文件親臨分行 —— 這對已經移民的人來說是一個重大障礙。

HSBC One：移民的最佳選擇

HSBC One（前稱滙豐卓越理財）因其環球轉帳功能而值得特別提及。如果您在香港持有滙豐帳戶，可以在英國、澳洲、加拿大、新加坡等國家開設關聯的滙豐帳戶。這使您能夠：

  • 在不同國家的滙豐帳戶之間即時免費轉帳
  • 通過定期環球轉帳保持香港帳戶「活躍」
  • 通過當地滙豐分行獲取關於香港帳戶問題的客戶服務
實用提示：如果您仍有活躍的香港銀行帳戶並計劃移民，請設置小額定期每月轉帳（即使只是HK$100），從您的香港帳戶轉至海外帳戶。這可以保持帳戶活躍，防止被列為休眠。

虛擬銀行：現代替代方案

香港的虛擬銀行（ZA Bank、Mox、天星銀行、livi、WeLab Bank、螞蟻銀行、富融銀行和平安壹賬通銀行）為移民提供了潛在的解決方案。這些銀行完全通過手機應用程式運營，沒有實體分行。如果您仍持有有效的香港身份證，可以遠程開戶，並從世界任何地方通過應用程式管理所有交易。但請注意，部分虛擬銀行可能需要香港電話號碼進行短訊驗證，且其存款保障受限於存款保障計劃(HKDPS)下每家銀行HK$500,000的上限。

從海外恢復休眠銀行帳戶

步驟 1

收集文件

收集您的原始銀行對帳單、存摺、提款卡或任何來自銀行的信件。您將需要香港身份證號碼和帳戶號碼。

步驟 2

聯繫銀行

致電銀行的國際客戶服務熱線。滙豐香港：+852 2233 3000。恒生：+852 2822 0228。中銀香港：+852 3988 2388。渣打：+852 2886 8868。

步驟 3

身份驗證

銀行會要求您驗證身份。這可能包括回答安全問題、提供您的香港身份證和護照的掃描件，某些情況下還需要在您居住國家進行公證或加蓋認證。

步驟 4

重新啟動或關閉

要求重新啟動（如果您想保留帳戶）或關閉帳戶並將餘額電匯至您的海外帳戶。某些銀行可能要求親臨分行才能重新啟動，但可以通過郵寄公證文件處理關閉和資金轉移。

步驟 5

委任代表

如果絕對需要親自到場，可考慮向香港的受信任人士授予授權書。授權書必須在您所在國家的公證人面前簽署，可能需要加蓋認證或經中國領事館認證。

4. 強積金：以永久離港為由提取

強積金（MPF）是移民中最常被遺忘的資產之一。根據積金局截至2024年6月的數據，以永久離港為由提取佔所有強積金提取的13% —— 排在年滿65歲退休（55%）和抵銷遣散費/長期服務金（18%）之後的第三大原因。

提早提取資格

根據《強制性公積金計劃條例》（第485章），如果您已永久離開香港且無意返回就業或永久居住，可以提早提取強積金累算權益。主要要求包括：

  • 您必須已經離開香港（或計劃離開）
  • 您必須作出法定聲明，聲明您已永久離開或打算永久離開香港，且無意返回香港就業或定居
  • 此項申請一生只能使用一次 —— 積金局會跨所有受託人追蹤記錄
一生一次：永久離港理由只能使用一次。如果您以此理由提取了強積金，日後返回香港重新就業，任何新的強積金供款都不能以同一理由提早提取。這是法定限制，沒有例外。

逐步提取強積金流程

步驟 1

查找所有強積金帳戶

如果您曾為多個僱主工作，可能在不同受託人下有多個強積金帳戶。使用積金局的網上查詢服務或致電強積金熱線 +852 2918 0102 追蹤所有帳戶。您也可以通過 eMPF 平台（empf.org.hk）查詢。

步驟 2

填寫申請表

從積金局網站或您的受託人網站下載表格 MPF(S)-W(P)。這是以永久離港為由申請提取權益的標準表格。

步驟 3

作出法定聲明

您必須填寫法定聲明（包含在表格中），聲明您已永久離開香港。如果您已在海外，可以在公證人、監誓員或中國領事館/大使館面前完成。

步驟 4

提供證明文件

您需要：(a) 香港身份證副本，(b) 護照副本（顯示離境印章或新國家的簽證），(c) 海外地址證明，(d) 用於接收款項的海外銀行帳戶資料。

步驟 5

向每個受託人提交

與某些流程不同，您必須向持有您帳戶的每個強積金受託人分別提交提取申請。受託人包括宏利、滙豐、友邦、永明、中銀、銀聯信託等。

步驟 6

收取款項

處理通常需要30至60個工作日。受託人會支付全部結餘，包括強制性和自願性供款，扣除任何費用。款項可以支票或電匯方式支付至您的海外銀行帳戶。

稅務提示：在香港提取強積金無需繳稅。但您應檢查新居住國的稅法 —— 部分國家（如澳洲）可能將強積金提取視為應課稅的外國收入。

5. 保險保單：海外維持、退保或索償

香港的保險滲透率位居世界前列，許多居民持有多份人壽保險和儲蓄掛鈎保險保單。當移民離開香港時，這些保單經常被忽視 —— 尤其是僱主提供的團體保險中可能有可攜帶部分，或多年前購買的小型儲蓄計劃。

常見遺留保單類型

  • 終身壽險保單 —— 只要保費持續繳付，保單便維持有效。如果保費失效，保單可能進入「自動保費貸款」階段，從其現金價值中扣除，最終完全失效。
  • 儲蓄/投資計劃 —— 這些有到期日。如果您不領取到期收益，保險公司會持有資金。一段時間後可能被分類為無人認領。
  • 危疾/醫療附加保障 —— 這些通常在保費停繳後失效。
  • 投資相連壽險計劃 (ILAS) —— 這些是投資為主的保險產品。其價值隨市場波動，如果放置不管，持續的管理費可能會蠶食結餘。

移民的選擇

繼續保單

如果保單回報良好，而且您可以通過從香港銀行帳戶自動轉帳繳付保費，保留它可能是明智的。確保向保險公司更新您的聯繫方式。大多數香港保險公司接受海外保單持有人。

退保領取現金價值

如果您不再需要保障，可以退保並領取現金價值。這可以從海外通過郵寄完成。聯繫保險公司索取退保表格並提供經公證的身份證明。

不要直接停止繳費

在沒有正式退保的情況下停止繳付保費，意味著保單將在寬限期後失效。如果保單進入自動保費貸款且現金價值耗盡，您可能完全失去現金價值。請務必正式退保。

不要以為保單已消失

保險公司有義務無限期持有無人認領的到期收益和身故賠償。即使保單在20年前已失效，可能仍有殘餘現金價值或無人認領的到期收益。請務必查詢。

申領已故移民的保險

如果保單持有人在海外身故，指定受益人可以直接申領身故賠償 —— 人壽保險金通常不屬於遺產的一部分，不需要遺產承辦書。受益人需要：

  • 死亡證明書原件或經認證副本（如在海外簽發，需加蓋認證或領事認證）
  • 保單文件（如有）
  • 受益人身份證明
  • 與已故者的關係證明
  • 保險公司的索償表格

如果沒有指定受益人，身故賠償將成為遺產的一部分，遺囑執行人或遺產管理人必須持遺產承辦書或遺產管理書申請。

6. 物業：遠程管理和出售

物業通常是移民可能遺留的最大單一資產。香港住宅物業價值仍位居世界最高之列，即使新界區的小型單位也可能價值數百萬港元。

常見情況

  • 通過代理出租：許多移民將物業出租。起初運作良好，但當物業需要維修、租客更換或移民的香港銀行帳戶變為休眠時，情況會變得複雜。
  • 交給親戚：部分移民讓親戚非正式地居住在物業中。沒有適當的租約或授權書，當移民想出售時就會出現問題。
  • 空置：令人驚訝的是，大量物業被閒置，管理費累積未付。
  • 共有：與家人的聯權共有或分權共有安排，在其中一位共有人移民時會產生特殊挑戰。

從海外出售物業

您不需要返回香港出售物業，但過程需要仔細準備：

步驟 1

授予授權書

簽署特定授權書，授權受信任人士（家人、律師或專業代理人）代您簽署臨時買賣合約、正式合約和轉讓契。授權書必須經公證並按香港土地註冊處要求認證。

步驟 2

聘請香港律師

律師將處理物業轉讓、確保業權清晰、與土地註冊處往來，並安排財務結算。許多香港律師慣於為海外客戶服務，可以通過電郵和視像通話溝通。

步驟 3

清繳未了債務

在交易完成前，確保所有管理費、差餉、地租和未償還按揭款項（如有）已結清。律師通常會從售樓所得款項中處理。

步驟 4

收取售樓所得

律師可以安排將淨售樓所得電匯至您的海外銀行帳戶。請注意，大額匯款可能會觸發發送銀行和接收銀行的反洗錢檢查。

額外印花稅 (SSD)：如果您在購入後2年內出售，需繳付10-20%的額外印花稅。此外，非永久居民在購買時須繳付15%的買家印花稅 (BSD)，但作為賣方這不是您的問題。出售前請查閱最新的印花稅稅率。

7. 股票及證券

香港擁有活躍的股票市場，許多居民通過證券帳戶、代名人帳戶或甚至實物股票證書持有股份。與移民相關的股票問題包括：

證券帳戶

網上證券帳戶（富途/moomoo、盈透證券、滙豐InvestDirect、輝立證券等）如不使用可能會變為休眠。大多數經紀商會無限期持有您的證券，但：

  • 可能收取不活躍費用（通常在6-12個月無交易後每月HK$50-100）
  • 股息將在現金帳戶中累積
  • 公司行動（供股、紅股）將在代名人帳戶中自動處理
  • 如果您不回應公司行動通知（如私有化要約），可能會損失價值

實物股票證書

年長的香港投資者可能仍持有實物股票證書。這些仍然有效，代表真正的所有權。請參閱我們關於尋找遺失股票和投資的詳細指南，了解驗證和轉換實物證書的完整流程。

從海外管理

大多數網上經紀商允許從海外完全訪問。但某些僅在香港營運的經紀商可能因監管要求而限制從某些司法管轄區的訪問。如果您的經紀商限制海外訪問，請聯繫他們討論選擇 —— 可能包括將持倉轉移至有國際訪問功能的另一經紀商，或出售並關閉帳戶。

8. 稅務清繳：離港時的稅務局要求

稅務局要求任何須繳稅且打算離開香港超過一個月的人士進行稅務清繳。這是《稅務條例》下的法律要求，不遵守可能導致罰款及日後返港時的困難。

稅務清繳流程

步驟 1

僱主通知

您的僱主必須在您離港前至少一個月通知稅務局，提交表格IR56G（停止受僱）或IR56F（如僱員離開超過一個月）。在此期間，您的僱主依法須扣起應付予您的任何款項（薪金、獎金、佣金）。

步驟 2

提交未了報稅表

稅務局會發出最終報稅表（BIR60），您必須在一般14天內填寫。這涵蓋從本稅務年度4月1日至您最後工作日的收入。

步驟 3

繳清稅款

繳付任何未清稅款。稅務局會評估您的最終稅款並發出繳稅通知書。這必須在您收到釋放信前繳清。

步驟 4

取得釋放信

一旦所有稅務事宜解決，稅務局會發出釋放信。您的僱主然後可以釋放扣起的款項。請保存此文件 —— 它確認您的香港稅務義務已全部清繳。

自僱或物業擁有人：如果您是自僱人士或從香港物業取得收入，您還必須直接通知稅務局並在離港前繳清任何未清利得稅或物業稅。稅務局會在滿意後發出釋放信。

如果未完成稅務清繳便離港怎麼辦？

近期移民潮中許多人在未完成稅務清繳的情況下離港。這可能導致：

  • 未清稅務評估累積罰款和附加費
  • 您的前僱主被追討應扣繳的稅款
  • 即使暫時返回香港也可能遇到困難
  • 出售香港物業或關閉銀行帳戶時出現問題，因為稅務局可以發出離境限制令

如果您未完成清繳便離港，仍可以通過致函稅務局、提交未了報稅表及繳清任何應繳稅款來解決。稅務局通訊地址：香港灣仔告士打道5號稅務大樓。電話：+852 187 8088。

9. 政府福利及退款

以下幾類政府相關款項常被移民遺忘：

稅務退款

如果您多繳了暫繳薪俸稅（如果在年中離職，這種情況很常見），您可能有權獲得退款。稅務局會在稅務清繳過程中計算，但如果您沒有完成稅務清繳，退款就留在那裡無人認領。請聯繫稅務局申領。

公用事業按金

  • 中華電力/港燈：電力供應按金（通常HK$400-2,000）在終止帳戶時可退還。
  • 煤氣公司：煤氣供應按金同樣可退還。
  • 水務：水務署不收取按金，但如果帳戶有貸方餘額，可以退還。

房屋委員會退款

如果您交還了公共租住房屋單位，任何貸方餘額或可退還按金應已退回。如未退回，請聯繫房屋委員會。

法庭按金和政府費用

較罕見的情況是，移民可能有未領取的法庭按金、保釋金或可退還的政府費用。

實用提示：公用事業按金和小額政府退款的個別金額可能看似微不足道，但累積起來數目可觀。我們曾見過一位移民合共追回超過HK$15,000的被遺忘公用事業按金和稅務退款。

11. 移民在海外身故的處理

這是最複雜的情況，不幸的是越來越常見。當香港移民在另一個國家身故時，其家人面臨雙重司法管轄區的挑戰：他們必須處理死亡國家的遺產，並且另外追回留在香港的任何資產。

重新蓋章程序

如果已在普通法司法管轄區（英國、加拿大、澳洲、新西蘭、馬來西亞、新加坡）取得遺產承辦書或遺產管理書，可以根據《遺囑認證及遺產管理條例》（第10章）在香港高等法院「重新蓋章」。這避免了在香港另行申請的需要。過程包括：

  • 向香港高等法院遺產承辦處提交申請
  • 提交外國承辦書的原件或經認證副本，經認證或加蓋認證
  • 遺囑的經認證副本（如有）
  • 申請人的宣誓書
  • 香港資產清單

如果所有文件齊備，重新蓋章程序通常需要2至4個月。

非普通法司法管轄區

如果移民在承辦書無法重新蓋章的司法管轄區身故（如台灣、中國大陸、某些歐洲或南美國家），家人必須在香港另行申請遺產管理書。這是一個更複雜的過程，需要香港律師，可能耗時6至12個月。

海外家庭面臨的實際挑戰

  • 查找資產：家人可能完全不知道香港存在什麼資產。他們必須按照上述第10節所述進行系統性搜索。
  • 語言障礙：與香港機構的通訊通常以中文為主，在海外長大的子女可能無法閱讀。
  • 時區差異：香港辦公時間（上午9時至下午5時 HKT / GMT+8）使從歐洲或美洲撥打電話變得困難。
  • 親身到場要求：某些機構堅持親身驗證，需要到香港一趟或委任本地代表。
  • 過期身份證明：已故者的香港身份證可能已過期，銀行可能不願接受，即使是遺產申索。
AssetCadet 如何協助：我們專門處理這種情況 —— 作為海外家庭的香港代表，協助他們查找和追回已故移民的資產。我們進行全面的資產搜索，代表家庭與銀行和機構聯繫，並與香港律師協調處理遺產追回的法律事務。

12. 移民前資產清單

如果您計劃從香港移民，請使用此清單確保沒有遺漏：

銀行帳戶：列出所有帳戶。決定是保留（設置遠程訪問和活動）還是關閉並轉移餘額。
強積金：記錄所有強積金帳戶號碼和受託人名稱。決定是立即提取還是離港後提取。
保險：列出所有保單。對每份保單決定：繼續（更新地址、設置自動轉帳）、退保（正式申請）或轉為繳清保單。
物業：如保留，委任物業管理人或授予授權書。如出售，在離港前聘請律師和地產代理。
股票/證券：整合證券帳戶。轉移至可國際訪問的經紀商或變現。
稅務清繳：通知僱主並完成稅務局稅務清繳。保留釋放信。
公用事業按金：終止中電/港燈、煤氣公司和寬頻帳戶。申領所有可退還按金。
保管箱：清空所有保管箱並退還，以避免持續的租金費用。
車輛：出售或取消登記任何車輛。申領任何未使用的保險或牌照退款。
公司董事職務：辭去任何公司董事職務。如果您擁有公司，安排清盤或轉讓股份。
郵件轉寄：通過香港郵政或私人郵箱服務安排至少12個月的郵件轉寄。
更新受益人：更新所有保險保單和投資帳戶的受益人指定，以反映您的新情況。
遺囑：更新或制定涵蓋香港和海外資產的遺囑。考慮為每個司法管轄區分別立遺囑。
授權書：向香港的受信任人士授予持久授權書，以處理任何剩餘事務。
記錄一切：建立所有香港資產、帳戶號碼、聯繫方式和登入憑證的總清單。安全存放並確保您的家人知道在哪裡找到它。
最後的想法：您能做的最重要的事情是建立一份所有香港資產的完整清單，並與受信任的家人或律師分享。我們幫助家庭追回的大多數「被遺忘的資產」實際上並非真的被遺忘 —— 它們只是從未被傳達。一份與遺囑一同存放的一頁資產摘要，可以為您的家人節省數月的搜索時間和數千元的專業費用。

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AssetCadet is not an operating service. This guide is published for free as a public resource. If you are interested in building this service together, contact Mr Ko.AssetCadet 並非營運中的服務。本指南作為公共資源免費發佈。如果您有興趣一起打造此服務，請聯絡高先生。

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