Teaching English in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is fascinating; full of Chinese influence and yet with a strong western feel. It is also a travel hub for Asia and teaching and earning on a good contract should enable you to travel easily and fairly cheaply…
Travel and Teach
Hong Kong continues to be a top destination for English teachers in 2025, with a thriving ESL sector and a diverse range of teaching opportunities. There is huge demand for teachers and a rich and vibrant ESL sector which consists of ad-hoc conversation clubs, more established private language schools and primary/secondary school placements via the government backed NET scheme. It is possible to secure work before you go and this is advised if you are new to Hong Kong since it is an expensive city to arrive in with no work. Employers and schools should help with visa.
Requirements to Teach in Hong Kong
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A bachelor's degree is required.
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Being a native English speaker is preferred, but near-native speakers can apply for the NET scheme.
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For better-paying positions, teaching experience is often required.
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TESOL certification is highly recommended.
Salary and Benefits (2025 Update)
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NET Scheme Primary Contracts: Pay ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 HKD per month, often including:
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End-of-contract bonuses
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Monthly cash living allowances for overseas hires
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Baggage allowance, medical coverage, and extra bonuses
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Private Schools: Competitive pay, but generally lower than NET roles. However, living well and saving is possible.
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Private Tutoring: Rates range from 200 to 400 HKD per hour depending on experience and the student demographic.
Recruitment for teachers in Hong Kong takes place year round with the exception of Chinese New Year (January/February).
If you are already in Hong Kong, try the South China Morning Post (https://www.cpjobs.com/hk/career-hubs/education) for potential jobs and you might find the guide to writing your CV on our site quite helpful here.
Recommended courses for Hong Kong:
- the Premier 120-hr TESOL for Asia as a basic qualification
- the 10-hour Observed Teaching Practice for Hong Kong for the HK EDB NET scheme
All our Global English accredited courses now include online English teaching as standard, which is important, as post pandemic much teaching has gone online, and may stay that way in some form.