Hong Kong SIM Card: Can You Keep Your Number?

Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis that attracts millions of tourists every year. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a quick layover, staying connected is essential. One of the most common questions travelers have is: Can you keep your Hong Kong SIM card number? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on several factors, including the type of SIM card, the provider, and how long you plan to stay.

Why a Hong Kong SIM Card is a Must for Travelers

Hong Kong offers some of the fastest and most reliable mobile networks in the world. With 5G coverage expanding rapidly, having a local SIM card ensures seamless connectivity for navigation, social media, and staying in touch with loved ones.

Benefits of Using a Local SIM Card

• Affordable data plans – Compared to international roaming, local SIMs offer much better rates.
• High-speed internet – Perfect for streaming, video calls, and uploading travel photos.
• Local number access – Useful for making restaurant reservations or booking tours.

Types of Hong Kong SIM Cards

Before diving into whether you can keep your number, it’s important to understand the different types of SIM cards available.

Prepaid SIM Cards

These are the most popular among tourists. They come with a set amount of data, calls, and texts and can be easily purchased at convenience stores, airports, or telecom shops.

Postpaid Plans

Ideal for long-term visitors or expats, postpaid plans require a contract and often include unlimited data. However, they usually require proof of residency.

Tourist SIM Cards

Specifically designed for short-term visitors, these SIMs offer generous data packages for 7 to 30 days.

Can You Keep Your Hong Kong SIM Card Number?

The ability to retain your Hong Kong mobile number depends on the type of SIM and the provider’s policies.

Prepaid SIMs: Temporary Use

Most prepaid SIMs are valid for a limited time (usually 30 to 180 days). If you don’t top up before expiration, the number is deactivated and reassigned.

How to Extend Your Prepaid Number

• Regular top-ups – Some providers allow you to keep the number active as long as you recharge periodically.
• Number retention services – A few telecom companies offer paid services to reserve your number for a longer duration.

Postpaid Plans: Long-Term Retention

If you have a postpaid plan, you can keep your number indefinitely as long as you continue paying the bill. However, canceling the plan means losing the number unless you port it to another provider.

Number Portability in Hong Kong

Hong Kong allows Mobile Number Portability (MNP), meaning you can switch carriers while keeping your number. This is useful if you’re transitioning from a prepaid to a postpaid plan or changing providers.

Best SIM Card Providers for Tourists

Here are some of the top telecom companies in Hong Kong and their policies on number retention:

1. CSL (1010 / csl)

• Offers tourist SIMs with generous data packages.
• Prepaid numbers expire after 180 days of inactivity.

2. 3 Hong Kong

• Popular for affordable prepaid plans.
• Numbers can be retained with regular top-ups.

3. China Mobile Hong Kong

• Good coverage and competitive pricing.
• Prepaid numbers last up to 180 days without recharge.

4. SmarTone

• Reliable network with tourist-friendly options.
• Number retention possible with active usage.

Tips for Keeping Your Hong Kong Number

If you plan to return to Hong Kong frequently or need the number for business, here’s how to maintain it:

• Set reminders for top-ups – Avoid losing the number due to inactivity.
• Switch to a postpaid plan – If staying long-term, this ensures permanent retention.
• Use number porting – Transfer your prepaid number to a postpaid plan if needed.

Alternatives to Keeping a Local Number

If retaining a Hong Kong number isn’t feasible, consider these options:

Virtual Phone Numbers

Services like Google Voice or Skype provide virtual numbers that work internationally.

eSIM Technology

Many newer smartphones support eSIMs, allowing you to switch between carriers without physical SIM cards.

International Roaming Packages

Some global providers offer affordable roaming plans for frequent travelers.

Final Thoughts

While keeping a Hong Kong SIM card number is possible, it requires active management. For short-term visitors, prepaid SIMs are convenient, but long-term users should consider postpaid plans or number portability. Always check with your provider for the latest policies to ensure seamless connectivity during your stay in Hong Kong.