Expat Guide to Giving Lai See (Red Packets) for Chinese New Year in Hong Kong

29 Dec

Chinese New Year (CNY) is the most important celebration in Hong Kong, filled with family gatherings, festive food, and traditional customs. One of the most beloved traditions is the giving of lai see (利是), or red packets, which are filled with money and given to friends, family, and even colleagues. For expats living in Hong Kong, understanding how much money to put in lai see is crucial, as it’s an important cultural practice with its own set of rules and etiquette.

This guide will walk you through the different amounts to give in lai see, based on your relationship with the recipient, and the customs surrounding this practice in Hong Kong.

1. What is Lai See?

Lai see, also known as "red packets" or "hongbao" in other regions, are small red envelopes containing money. They are typically given during Chinese New Year as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and blessings for the year ahead. The red color symbolizes happiness, wealth, and the warding off of evil spirits. The amount of money inside the packet holds symbolic significance and varies based on your relationship with the recipient.

2. Important Etiquette for Giving Lai See in Hong Kong

Lai See is typically given with both hands as a sign of respect, especially when giving it to elders or close family members.
Avoid giving lai see with an even amount of money, particularly 4 (四, pronounced "si"), as the number 4 sounds like the word for "death" (死, pronounced "si"). It’s considered inauspicious to give amounts involving the number 4.
Crisp and new banknotes are preferred. Don’t give old or wrinkled notes, as this is considered disrespectful.
Avoid odd numbers, except for the number 6 or 8, which are considered lucky. 8, in particular, symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
Amount: The amount of money in the lai see is more symbolic than extravagant. The key is to follow cultural norms while showing respect.

3. How Much Money to Put in Lai See: A Breakdown Based on Relationship

3.1 For Children (Family, Friends, and Acquaintances)

Amount: HK$20 to HK$200
Explanation: Children are the most common recipients of lai see, and the amount given depends on how close you are to the child. For close family or friends, you can give more. For children of acquaintances or colleagues, a smaller amount is appropriate. A common amount is around HK$50 to HK$100.
Why: Lai see for children represents good luck, prosperity, and blessings for their growth and education.

3.2 For Parents, In-Laws, or Elders

Amount: HK$100 to HK$1,000 (or more, depending on the family dynamic)
Explanation: Giving lai see to elders is a sign of respect and gratitude. For your parents or in-laws, a larger amount is appropriate. You may give anywhere from HK$200 to HK$1,000, depending on your relationship and financial situation. In some cases, families with higher financial means may give larger sums.
Why: Giving lai see to elders represents respect and gratitude for their role in the family, and the larger sum symbolizes wishes for their health and happiness in the coming year.

3.3 For Married Couples or Friends

Amount: HK$50 to HK$500
Explanation: For married couples or close friends, the amount generally ranges from HK$50 to HK$200. If you are very close to the couple, you may give more, but a modest amount is typically sufficient. The important thing is to maintain the spirit of the gesture rather than focusing on the size of the amount.
Why: Lai see for married couples is meant to wish them good fortune, harmony, and a prosperous future. The amount should reflect the closeness of your relationship with them.

3.4 For Colleagues, Bosses, and Business Relationships

Amount: HK$20 to HK$200
Explanation: For professional relationships, lai see amounts are typically lower, as it’s a gesture of goodwill and respect rather than a family tradition. The amount usually ranges from HK$20 to HK$100, with the upper end of the range appropriate for more senior colleagues or bosses.
Why: Giving lai see to colleagues or business contacts is a way to foster good relationships and show respect for their contributions.

3.5 For Domestic Helpers and Service Staff

Amount: HK$200 to HK$1,000
Explanation: Domestic helpers in Hong Kong often receive a larger lai see as a token of appreciation for their work. The amount can vary, but a standard amount is around HK$500 to HK$1,000, depending on how long they have worked for you and your relationship with them.
Why: This amount reflects respect and gratitude for their hard work throughout the year.

4. Special Considerations for Expats in Hong Kong

4.1 Understanding the Cultural Significance

As an expat in Hong Kong, giving lai see is not just about the amount of money—it’s about participating in a deep-rooted cultural practice. The money inside the lai see is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and good luck. While you may not have the same cultural ties to this tradition, taking part in the practice shows respect for the local customs and strengthens your relationships with your colleagues, friends, and family.

4.2 Giving Lai See to People Outside Your Family Circle

For Children of Friends or Acquaintances: When giving lai see to children who are not your own, it’s typical to give a modest amount—HK$20 to HK$100 is acceptable. You may want to give more if you are close friends with the child’s parents.
For Elderly Neighbors or Acquaintances: If you have elderly neighbors or friends who are not close family, you can give lai see as a sign of respect. An amount like HK$50 to HK$200 is appropriate.

4.3 When Not to Give Lai See

Married People without Children: If you are unmarried, you are not expected to give lai see to married couples unless they have children. It’s generally reserved for children or elders.
During the First Day of Chinese New Year: Traditionally, the first day of CNY is reserved for visiting elders, so you should give lai see to your own parents or elder relatives first.

5. Where to Buy Lai See Envelopes and Money in Hong Kong

Lai see envelopes can be purchased at a variety of places, including:

Supermarkets: Many large supermarkets sell lai see packets in festive designs.
Shopping Malls: Malls typically feature special Chinese New Year promotions and sales of lai see envelopes in bright red, with gold or auspicious symbols.
Banks: Some banks in Hong Kong provide lai see envelopes when you exchange or withdraw cash for CNY purposes.

Giving lai see is a beautiful and meaningful part of Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, and it’s a way to show goodwill and respect to those around you. As an expat, understanding the cultural norms and amounts associated with this tradition will help you participate respectfully and thoughtfully. Whether giving lai see to children, parents, colleagues, or friends, your gesture will be appreciated and reflect your understanding of this important tradition. Keep in mind that the thought behind the gift is more important than the exact amount—it’s about sharing good fortune and blessings for the coming year.

Florist and Flower Delivery