Key Takeaways
Mox is a Hong Kong virtual bank backed by Standard Chartered, providing a free personal account that can be opened via mobile app in minutes.
To open a Mox Bank account, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid HKID (permanent or non-permanent) and proof of address in Hong Kong.
Mox Bank Overview
Introduced in 2020, Mox or Mox Bank stands as one of Hong Kong's top virtual banks.
It is a licensed bank in Hong Kong operating as Mox Bank Limited, a subsidiary of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited.
Additionally, Mox Bank collaborates with HKT (Hong Kong’s leading telecom), PCCW (multimedia, entertainment, property development, and investment group), and Trip.com (the largest online travel agency in Asia).
However, unlike traditional banks, Mox operates solely as a mobile app, offering a range of retail banking services accompanied by lifestyle benefits, investment opportunities, and robust financial security.
If you are interested in opening a Mox Bank account, this article will provide a comprehensive guide outlining the eligibility criteria and a step-by-step process to initiate and set up your account.
💡 Tip: Visit our comprehensive Mox Bank review for more information about their features and fees.
Key Information | Description |
Eligible countries | Hong Kong |
Eligible company types | Only individuals can apply, as Mox only provides personal accounts |
Initial deposit | HKD 0 |
Account opening fee | HKD 0 |
How long it takes to complete the application? | Few minutes |
Average opening time | Few minutes, or depending on individual circumstances |
100% online application | |
Key Things to Know | • Mox lacks cross-border payment options. • Accessible only on the mobile app. • Relatively high interest on deposits compared to other traditional banks. • Mox Bank card is a combined credit and debit card. |
Best Mox Bank Alternatives | ZA Bank for personal and business accounts in Hong Kong, featuring support for HKD, CNY, and USD. However, they lack cards. Statrys for a business-focused alternative with support for 11 currencies and business cards. |
Types of Accounts Available
Mox Bank offers personal accounts, including
- Mox Saving Account or “Mox Account” - a personal account focusing on day-to-day essentials. You can save, spend, withdraw, transfer, and receive refunds in HKD or foreign currencies.
- The "Goal" feature, sometimes called "Goal account" - allows you to create diverse savings goals for specific purposes. Enjoy the freedom to name, organise, and customise these goals. You can transfer funds between your Mox Account and Goal(s), all while earning interest on the combined deposits across these accounts (terms and conditions apply).
However, Goal accounts are limited to a maximum of 5 and exclusively support HKD deposits
- Mox Invest Account lets you trade Hong Kong and US stocks, including ETFs, and invest in funds. After you open a Mox Account, you may be eligible to open a Mox Invest account.
Currently, Mox Bank does not provide business accounts.
🔎 Tip: Looking for a business account for your Hong Kong business? Check out this list of best business accounts in Hong Kong
Eligibility
To open a new Mox Account, you have to meet the following criteria.
- You must be 18 years or older
- You need a valid Hong Kong Identity Card for either a permanent or non-permanent resident. Foreigners who work in Hong Kong or visit the city frequently can get a valid non-permanent residence card.
- If you don’t reside in Hong Kong for any period of time, then you can’t open a Mox Account.
- You have a legitimate residential and mailing address in Hong Kong.
To be eligible for the Mox Invest Account, you need to meet two additional criteria:
- You are not a US citizen.
- You have a valid Mox Account in your name.
What Documents Do I Need to Open a Mox Bank Account?
To complete a Mox Account application process, you only need a Hong Kong identity card (HKID). Mox will require you to provide photos of both the front and back of your HKID, along with a selfie.
Additionally, you’ll need to provide personal information, including
- General information: Your nationality, place of birth, and preferred name for the account.
- Contact information: Your phone number, email address, and residential or mailing address.
- Tax information: Your tax ID from your country and city
- Occupational details: You must provide your occupation and your annual income.
- Purpose of the account: Provide information on how you intend to use the bank account.
For Mox Investment Account, you'll need the following additional documents:
- Proof of address in Hong Kong that is in your name, excluding cases where you've previously submitted proof during Mox Card activation and haven't changed your residential and mailing address.
- An employer consent letter if you work for an SFC-licensed company or a registered institution.
Application Forms and Useful Resources
All application forms are available through the Mox App.
For additional resources, please consult the Mox FAQs page.
For specific guidance on Mox Account opening, refer to this guideline on who can open a Mox Account and Mox Account document requirements.
If you're considering the Mox Invest Account, please consult the documents outlining Mox Invest eligibility and Mox Invest document requirements.
How To Open a Mox Bank Account
Opening a Mox Bank account is quick and easy, provided you meet eligibility requirements and have all the necessary documents.
Here are the steps to open a Mox Bank account:
Step 1 - Download the Mox Bank App
The first step is to download the “Mox Bank” application available on both the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Andriod). Alternatively, you can visit mox.com and click on "Get mox" in the upper right corner to scan the QR code and access the app.
Please note that currently, the account opening is exclusively available through its mobile app and not via the Mox Bank website.
Step 2 - Tap “Open an Account.”
After successfully installing the application and opening it, you'll find an "Open an Account" button as the first option in the app. You can choose between opening a Mox Account exclusively or an All-in-one application with Mox Account and Mox Credit, which includes loan and instalment payment features.
Regardless of your choice, you'll be getting a Mox Account if your application is approved. Even if your Mox Credit application is declined, you can still obtain a Mox Account and a Mox Card for future spending.
Step 3 - Enter Your Name, Mobile Number, and Email Address
Next, fill in your preferred name, mobile number, email, and, if applicable, an invitation code. A Hong Kong mobile number is required, and Mox suggests avoiding the use of the same number for more than one Mox Account.
💡 Tip: Explore Mox’s Promotion and Welcome Offer page. Often, you can discover promo codes to input into your invitation code, unlocking rewards.
Step 4 - Scan the Front and Back of Your HKID
Mox suggests aligning your HKID card clearly, minimising glare, and scanning it on a dark surface with sufficient lighting. This ensures the mobile app can accurately and swiftly capture the details.
Step 5 - Take a Selfie for Verification
The next step is to verify your identity by taking a selfie.
When capturing the selfie, ensure your phone is held horizontally for smoother facial recognition. Plus, avoid having other individuals in the background.
Step 6 - Fill in Your Tax and Other Personal Information
You may be asked for tax numbers and other personal information like employment type, monthly income, and address information.
Please note that your mail address information will be used to send you the Mox Card.
Step 7 - Create a Passcode
After providing all the necessary information for approval, you can create a passcode. This passcode serves as a security, ensuring access to the Mox app is authorised by you
Step 8 - Activate Biometric Recognition
You have the option to activate biometric verification, such as facial recognition or fingerprint, as an additional layer of security.
Step 9 - Answer Additional Questions
Mox may request additional details, such as the purpose of using your account or your preference for receiving marketing materials and promotions via push notifications, SMS or email.
Step 10 - Confirm All Details
After entering all the information, the Mox app will let you review all the details before confirming the submission, and you should be all set.
Upon the successful creation of your account, accessing your Mox Account details is a straightforward process within the Mox app. Simply log in and proceed to the "Accounts" tab, where you'll find account information, including the bank code, branch code, and account number.
Most users can create a Mox Bank account in a few minutes.
How Long Does It Take To Open a Mox Bank Account?
You can apply for an account in just a few minutes, but Mox Bank notes that the approval time depends on individual circumstances.
It may take longer if you apply for Mox Account with Mox Credit, due to additional reviews.
However, from what we've observed in the Mox tutorial, it seems that a regular Mox Account could be operational right away after completing an application process.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Mox Bank Account?
The opening cost is zero. There are no account opening fees and no minimum deposit requirements. Mox Bank's monetisation model involves charging a flat fee per transaction when users withdraw money from ATMs, along with a foreign exchange handling fee. Additionally, profits are generated from other services, including APR from their credit products.
Fee Type | Amount |
Account Opening Cost | 0 |
Minimum Deposit Requirements | 0 |
How to Contact Mox Bank Customer Support?
To contact Mox Bank, you can use the following channels:
- Reach out through the form on the Mox contact page.
- Email: care@mox.com.
- Utilise the voice call or live chat function in the Mox app.
- Hotline: +852 2888 8228.
- Write to them at 39/F, Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong.
Mox Bank Alternatives
Multi-currency Business Account in Hong Kong | |||
Personal Account | |||
Supported Currencies in the account | HKD | 11 currencies (HKD, AUD, CAD, CHF, RMB, EUR, GBP, JPY, NZD, SGD, USD) | 3 currencies (HKD, CNY, and USD) |
SWIFT Payments | |||
SWIFT Real-Time Tracking | We cannot find information | We cannot find information | |
Account Opening Time | Minutes | 3 business days | Several weeks |
Eligible Countries | Hong Kong | Hong Kong, Singapore, the BVI | Hong Kong |
Initial Deposit | HKD 0 | HKD 0 | HKD 0 for both personal and business accounts |
Account Opening Fees | HKD 0 | HKD 0 Except for special companies registered outside Hong Kong, Singapore, the BVI or companies with complex structure |
HKD 0 for personal account Start from HKD 1,200 for business account opening |
Cards | |||
ATM Withdrawal | |||
Customer Support Channel | Voice call, in-app chat, Hotline, Online form, Email and mail | Website, Email, Phone, Live chat, WhatsApp and WeChat | Email, Phone, Online Live Chat, Query forms, ZA Bank office |
Trustpilot Reviews | No Trustpilot page | 4.6/5 based on 252 reviews | No Trustpilot page |
FAQs
Who can open Mox Bank accounts?
Anyone who is 18 years or older with a Hong Kong ID (HKID) and a residential Hong Kong address can open a Mox Bank account. For Mox Invest, you'll also need to provide proof of address in Hong Kong.
Who is behind Mox Bank?
Can I open a Mox Bank account online?
Does Mox Bank have business bank accounts?
Is my money safe with Mox Bank?
Disclaimer
Statrys does not directly compete with Mox Bank because Statrys does not provide personal bank accounts. However, we're still committed to providing an unbiased, thorough review to help you make an informed choice.