China Travel Forum

[Jake]

Hi,
Am considering applying to teach English in Hong Kong this year as soon as possible. Can anyone give me some valuable advice from experience?
Particularly interested in...
Expected salary range for someone who has ten years primary teaching (Aus) and has completed TESOL certification
Tax issues and how to bring money back to OZ
Cost of living
Work conditions, hours, preparation, sick leave and holiday provisions
Potential to save money, travel a bit and return home after a couple of years 'cashed up'
Best contracts to seek out
Necessity of TESOL certification

I'd appreciate any insights you might be able to offer. Thanks

[Wilfrid]

Are you looking for a few months cash in hand work or a proper teaching job?
Although you do need an appropriate visa to legally work in HK, and the penalties for not having one can be quite severe, some people do get cash in hand work teaching English on tourist visas. Generally they do not save much.
To make good money you really need a working visa. To get that you generally need a degree and teaching qualification so that a company will sponsor you.
Salary: depends where you work. If you can get in to the English Schools Foundation, you will be among the best paid teachers anywhere in the world.
Teachers in local schools start at around HK20000 a month - see the NET scheme.
Private kindergartens pay upwards of HK12000 a month.
Tax: about $100000 tax free, after this a sliding scale up to 15% max I think.
The HK$ is fully convertible so no problem transferring it anywhere in the world.
Cost of living: Cheaper than it was a few years ago, but still comparable to western cities such as London and Sydney, especially housing if you want somewhere bigger than your average HK flat. If you are prepared to live in a small 400 square foot flat, away from the fashionable central areas then living costs decrease alot.
Labour laws in HK are among the best in Asia. If your contract does not give medical cover then the public hositals have some of the best facilities in this part of the world.
Working hours depend on where you work. NETs in local schools often complain that they are working very long hours but they do get paid more!
Save money: depends how much you spend. It is easy to spend HK$1000 on a meal in HK if you want. It is also possible to have a good meal for HK$50.