Teach English in Hong Kong: Key Facts & Pay

From sparkling skylines to vibrant street markets, teaching English in Hong Kong offers an exciting mix of East and West. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just getting started, here’s a practical, easy-to-follow guide to help you prepare.

What do I need to be eligible to teach English in Hong Kong?

To teach English legally in Hong Kong, you must satisfy both government and employer standards. 

A bachelor’s degree (in any subject)

A TEFL certificate (at least 120 hours)

Ideally, two years of teaching experience

For roles in international education settings, employers often look for more specialized credentials, such as postgraduate qualifications or teaching licenses.

Is it possible to teach English in Hong Kong without holding a degree?

No. A degree is non-negotiable if you want a legal job with a Z Visa. While you might see online forums claiming otherwise, working without the correct visa is risky. Spot checks are common, and without a valid work visa, you could be deported.

If you don't have a degree, consider other destinations such as Cambodia, Mexico, or certain parts of Europe where requirements are more flexible.

What is the typical salary for English teachers in Hong Kong?

Among Asian countries, Hong Kong offers some of the most competitive pay for TEFL professionals.

Public schools: HK$25,000 – HK$70,000/month

Private language schools:HK$18,000 – HK$25,000/month

International schools: HK$30,000 – HK$80,000/month

Private tutoring: HK$100 – HK$550 per hour

New teachers with only a TEFL certificate typically start around HK$20,000–HK$28,000. Experienced educators can earn far more, especially in international or NET (Native-speaking English Teacher) program schools.

Is teaching experience required?

Not always. While two years of experience is preferred, many language centers and kindergartens hire first-time teachers as long as they have a TEFL certificate.

If you aim for top-tier schools or university roles, though, expect stricter criteria: experience plus higher qualifications.

What benefits do employers in Hong Kong offer?

To attract teachers, many schools offer generous benefit packages, including:

Free or subsidized housing

Flight reimbursement (round trip or annual)

Visa support

Healthcare coverage

Completion bonuses after a 12-month contract

Sometimes even free meals or school lunches

These perks can help offset Hong Kong’s high cost of living—especially when it comes to rent. Whenever you can, opt for teaching jobs that come with lodging or a housing allowance to cut costs and simplify life.

Teaching English in Hong Kong can be a rewarding and well-paying experience—but it requires preparation. Make sure you meet the legal requirements, get TEFL certified, and understand your employment package before accepting a role. With the right setup, Hong Kong offers not just a job, but a thrilling new chapter in one of the world's most dynamic cities.