A friend recently helped me get a Hong Kong CSL SIM card. Although I already use a UK Giffgaff (GG) card, having a Hong Kong number is a great addition, especially for managing HK-based services. Here’s a quick guide on how to activate and use it.
Prerequisites
- CSL SIM Card: Available online or at convenience stores in Hong Kong. Check the “Activate by” date on the card.
- CSL App: Download the
CSLapp from a non-mainland App Store (e.g., HK or US). - ID for KYC: You’ll need either a Passport or a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents (Exit-Entry Permit) for mandatory real-name registration.
Activation Steps
- Insert the SIM card into your phone.
- Open the CSL app and register/log in.
- Real-Name Registration: The app will redirect you to a browser page. Follow the prompts for registration: enter your phone number, receive the verification code, select your ID type (Passport/Permit), and upload a photo of your document. Approval is usually instantaneous, though the service might be suspended if the backend audit fails later.
- Maintenance: The card usually comes with a pre-loaded starter plan. To keep the card active for another year, simply purchase any plan before the current one expires. You can cancel the auto-renewal immediately after purchase.
Once activated, you can receive SMS verification codes in mainland China for free.
Registering for WeChat HK
If you have a Hong Kong number, you can register (or switch) your WeChat account to the Hong Kong region. This enables the WeChat Pay HK wallet, allowing you to spend the balance on your Hong Kong cards directly.
- Benefits: Purchases under 200 HKD are usually fee-free, and RMB transactions are automatically converted to HKD.
- Why do this?: It’s a great way to keep your HK card active and spend HKD without using up your annual mainland foreign exchange quota.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s Giffgaff or CSL, I highly recommend having at least one international SIM card. It’s essential for receiving verification codes and registering for global services that might be restricted in certain regions.
