In terms of assets, the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation is the world's fourth largest corporation. Although its parent company, the HSBC Holdings plc., is based in Canary Wharf in London, the bank is headquartered in Hong Kong. It was also in Hong Kong where it was founded in 1865 by Thomas Sutherland to finance the growing trade between Europe and China. For more information about the bank, visit its website.

HSBC markets itself as the “world's local bank,” and it's not difficult to understand why. When it comes to offshore banking, HSBC is indeed a world leader. If you're an expatriate and you are an HSBC customer, you surely know how this bank can make their extensive services seem very local. Its account structures are very flexible in order to meet the needs of an expatriate like you. Like all the other offshore banks, HSBC allows you to make transactions, have access to your funds and view your account information day or night, wherever you are in the world through the Internet or over the phone.

A legitimate division of the bank, HSBC Offshore Banking handles international accounts and supports expatriates. It is especially structured to provide expatriates a continuation of their localized services. Everything an expatriate client needs, as far as banking is concerned, is provided by the bank. If allows them to set up an account in the local currency, pay for temporary accommodation and even find a job. To find out more about the banking services offered, log on to http://www.offshore.hsbc.com/1/2/home.

HSBC Offshore also offers a series of 80-country guides with the information you need settle in another country. It is even complete with tax planning information. This bank also offers multi-currency accounts that allow you to pay for your bills in the local currency while paying your bills back home in another. They also provide international mortgage services for those who intend to buy property abroad. They offer full insurance coverage, including health and life insurances. Not to mention the offshore saving and investment products and services that they extend to its customers worldwide. Some are tax free. Aside from these, expatriates can also use international debit and credit cards, preferential forex services, as well as overseas loan facilities.

If you want to open an account with HSBC Offshore, all you need to do is visit their website, complete an advice form and wait until an advisor contacts you to talk about the requirements.