SIM Card Real-Name Registration for Domestic Helpers in Hong Kong (2026)

In Hong Kong, every prepaid SIM card must be registered to a real person before it works. As a domestic helper you can register your own SIM yourself — using your own Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID). The number belongs to you, not your employer.

Do you need to register?

• Prepaid SIM (the cheap top-up cards most helpers use): yes — register it before use, or it will not work.
• Monthly contract plan: already registered when the contract was signed — nothing more to do.

What you need

• Your HKID card (you receive this after you arrive and register with Immigration).
• Your prepaid SIM and its phone number.
• A smartphone (yours), so you can use the operator’s app — or visit one of their shops.

How to register, step by step

1. Buy a prepaid SIM from a convenience store, operator shop, or online.
2. Open the operator’s registration app or website and choose English (or your language if offered).
3. Type your name and HKID number exactly as printed on your card, and the SIM’s number.
4. Take a photo of your HKID and a selfie if the app asks, then submit.
5. Wait for the confirmation SMS — your SIM is now active and ready to use.

Common problems — and fixes

• No smartphone? Go to the operator’s shop with your HKID — staff can register the SIM for you in person.
• App only in Chinese? Most operators offer an English interface — look for “EN” or a language switch, or ask in-store.
• Use your own login and PIN, and keep your HKID with you — never hand your account password to anyone.

Your privacy and rights

The operator keeps your registration details private. By law they can only be given to the police in limited situations, such as with a court warrant or to stop an immediate danger to life. Your employer has no right to your SIM account or your registration information.