Get money for anywhere in the world with these currency exchange providers in Hong Kong.
Whether you’re a local resident planning for a quick getaway from Hong Kong, or a first-time visitor trying to figure out how to exchange your cash for Hong Kong dollars while researching the best hotels and places to stay during your travels, saving on currency exchange fees is always a smart move. Luckily for you, we’re all frequent travellers in Team Honey, and we’ve personally navigated the currency exchange landscape in the city. Take a look at our top 10 trusted providers to help you get the most out of your travel budget.
Currency exchange in Hong Kong: Practical tips from Team Honey
1. Our golden rule: Always compare first
A valuable lesson one of us learned firsthand on a recent trip to the UK: banks and ATMs don’t always offer the best exchange rates. While the convenience of using local ATMs to withdraw foreign currency proved extremely convenient, the unexpected and hefty handling fee reduced any potential savings.
So, our takeaway is clear: even if an exchange rate appears attractive, always compare at least two to three different options – be it currency exchange providers, banks and ATMs, or reputable online platforms. In addition, check the mid-market rate (the “real” rate before any markups) as a benchmark for comparison. Based on our experience, we’ve found HSBC’s mid-market rate checker useful for quick and easy-to-understand figures.
2. Beware of hidden costs
Exchange rates aren’t the only factor to consider. It’s crucial to inquire about your chosen company’s policy on any commission or service fees before you commit to the transaction. One of our writers remembers planning a trip to Thailand where, despite securing a decent exchange rate, hidden service fees ultimately negated their initial gains. Needless to say, it was a memorable lesson for our dear teamie to always check the full cost upfront!
3. Trust licensed operators
A general piece of advice for all things involving money: always transact with licensed operators – and licensed operators only! (Beware especially of unofficial Facebook Pages that claim to offer unbeatable deals online.) To tell official establishments apart from potential scammers, look for the Money Service Operator (MSO) licence. You can learn more about Hong Kong’s regulation around currency exchange on the Hong Kong Money Service Operators Association website.
Thankfully, none of Team Honey have ever been cheated out of their hard-earned holiday budget, but the tales we’ve heard from relatives and friends have done their job in cautioning us against dealing with unlicensed companies. And for added peace of mind, we always count our cash twice – before and after the exchange – and so should you.
4. If it sounds too good to be true…
Finally, a word to the wise: if an exchange rate seems significantly better than the mid-market rate, then it’s probably a scam! While we all love a good deal, unrealistically high rates are definite red flags.
Now you’re all set, here is our recommended list of currency exchange providers in Hong Kong.
Best places for currency exchange in Hong Kong
1. Kin Shing Money Exchange Co Ltd
For a reliable currency exchange provider in Hong Kong, Kin Shing is your best choice. As one of the most well-known in the city, this family-owned business brings over 50 years of dedicated service to the table, earning a loyal following among savvy travellers seeking the best rates. Based on our team’s experience, Kin Shing not only offers some of the best exchange rates and deals in town, but also operates without charging commission.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9am – 6pm; Sat, 9am – 2pm
Phone number: 2368 0084
Address: Kin Shing Money Exchange Co Ltd, Shop 87, G/F, Chungking Mansions, 36 – 44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
2. Ngau Kee Money Changer Co Ltd
Another long-established currency exchange provider in Hong Kong we trust is Ngau Kee Money Changer, which has been operating in Sheung Wan for many years. We favour Nagu Kee for its convenient telegraphic transfer services, making it easy to move funds internationally for your travels. Plus, with an impressive inventory of over 40 currencies, Ngau Kee pretty much has you covered wherever your next adventure takes you.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9am – 5:30pm; Sat, 9am – 1pm
Phone number: 2543 1596
Address: Ngau Kee Money Changer Co Ltd, G/F, Champion Building, 1 Cleverly Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
3. Hong Kong Forex Limited
If you encounter a queue for Kin Shing (a common sight pre-Covid and steadily returning!), you can also check out Hong Kong Forex Limited, another currency exchange provider located in Chungking Mansions. This alternative offers similar services to Kin Shing and also provides money transfers via Moneygram. As with all our recommendations on this list, Forex charges no commission, so you can get the most bang for your buck – literally!
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, Sat, 10am – 8pm; Fri, 10am – 12:45pm, 2 – 8pm; Sun and public holidays, 11am – 7pm
Phone number: 2766 0066
Address: Hong Kong Forex Limited, Shop 110 A – B, G/F, Chungking Mansions, 36 – 44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
4. City Foreign Exchange Ltd
Based on our team’s experience, City Foreign Exchange Ltd consistently provides competitive rates, allowing for worry-free currency exchange that’ll work within your budget. We often rely on City Foreign Exchange’s branches on Hong Kong Island or in Kowloon for any last-minute exchange needs. The company handles all major currencies and, importantly, charges virtually no commission or service fees. You’ll also find remittance and Western Union Money Transfer services available at its locations.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9:30am – 6:30pm; Sat, 9:30am – 1:30pm
Phone number: 2366 7725
Address: City Foreign Exchange Ltd has various branches across Hong Kong.
5. Capital Exchange Limited
For an efficient and hassle-free currency exchange experience, check out Capital Exchange Limited. Occupying a prime spot on Nathan Road, we’ve found its exchange rates to be consistently fair, closely tracking local and global markets with updates every two hours. Based on our team’s experience, its staff are always helpful and ready to answer any questions you might have about your exchange, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction. Plus, if you sign up on Capital Exchange Limited’s online portal, you can book your currency in advance online – talk about convenience!
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 10am – 7pm; Sat 10:30am – 4pm
Phone number: 2560 0005
Address: Capital Exchange Limited, Flat D, 13/F, Alpha House, 27 – 33 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
6. Expro Limited
For those living or working on Hong Kong Island, Expro Limited is a great option for your currency exchange needs. We’ve found that this company offers some of the most favourable rates in Sheung Wan and appreciate its convenient location near the MTR station. Plus, its online rate checker allows for prior planning and quick transactions, making Expro ideal for travellers on the go.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9am – 6:30pm; Sat, Sun, public holidays, 9am – 6pm
Whatsapp: 9436 5519
Address: Expro Limited, Shop C, G/F, Hing Yip Commercial Centre, 272 – 284 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
7. Birdy Exchange
Birdy Exchange also earns a spot on our recommended list of currency exchange providers in Hong Kong for its efficient service and competitive rates. Its daily rates are transparently listed on the website and social media platforms, making it easy for you to double-check numbers before committing to a transaction. While we love that Birdy consistently offers appealing prices and rates, note that the provider is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 12 – 8pm; Sat, 12 – 5pm
Whatsapp: 6999 6148
Address: Birdy Exchange, 261A Cheung Sha Wan Road, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
8. Loyal Company Money Exchange
Loyal Company Money Exchange offers some of the best exchange rates we’ve encountered in Hong Kong. You can find these posted on its social media platforms daily for easy reference. Similar to the other providers on this list, the company operates without any service or commission fees. We often turn to Loyal Company when queues gather in front of others, and you can expect an all-round smooth process with barely any wait (for now!).
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9:30am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 2pm
Phone number: 2376 0698
Address: Loyal Company Money Exchange, Unit 8, 5/F, Sands Building, 17 Hankow Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
9. GME Limited
For a swift and straightforward currency exchange in Hong Kong, GME in Causeway Bay is a reliable option. We’ve always found its service to be quick, and thankfully, we’ve yet to see long queues snaking around its front (knock on wood). GME also offers some of the fairest rates in the city, with the added transparency of listing its daily rates online. Beyond currency exchange, GME provides global remittance services at its Causeway Bay location, too.
Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 10am – 6:45pm
Phone number: 2117 7031
Address: GME Limited, Shop 6, G/F, Phoenix Apartments, 2 – 16 Lan Fong Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
10. PFCE Limited
Serving Hong Kong’s frequent travellers since 2004, PFCE Limited is another currency exchange provider we consistently recommend. Based on our team’s experience, PFCE Limited has reliably offered top-tier exchange rates without any hidden service fees or commissions. In addition to efficient money exchange, the company also provides global remittance services covering major countries and regions, often with funds arriving on the same day and prompt notification from a dedicated agent.
Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 10am – 7pm
Phone number: 2805 6310 (Causeway Bay); 2376 0019 (Tsim Sha Tsui)
Address: PFCE has locations in Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui.
Want more travel tips? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop us an email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best options for exchanging currency in Hong Kong for tourists?
Tourists in Hong Kong have several options for exchanging currency. Popular choices include licensed money changers, banks, ATMs, and at airports and hotels. It’s always wise to compare a few before making a transaction and be aware of potential handling fees.
What should I be aware of when exchanging currency in Hong Kong to get the best rates and avoid scams?
To get the best exchange rates and avoid potential issues, you should compare rates, ask about handling and/or transaction fees, check the mid-market rate as a benchmark to gauge the competitiveness of a rate, count your money, and be cautious of very high rates.
Is it better to exchange currency before I arrive in Hong Kong or once I get there?
To decide whether it’s best to exchange currency before or after you arrive in Hong Kong, you should consider the initial amount you wish to exchange, the exchange rates, fees, as well as the ratio between convenience and rate.
