If you want to teach in a Hong Kong school, obtaining Registered Teacher status is an important step in your career.
This guide explains who can become a Registered Teacher in Hong Kong, the qualifications you need, how to apply, and how qualifications, such as a PGCE, may support your application.
What Is Registered Teacher Status in Hong Kong?
The Education Bureau of Hong Kong stipulates that “any person who teaches in a school has to be either a registered teacher or a permitted teacher”.
A Registered Teacher is a teacher who has been formally approved and registered by the Hong Kong Education Bureau (EDB).
Registered Teacher status allows educators to teach in Hong Kong schools and demonstrates that they have met the academic, professional, and suitability requirements established by the EDB.
What Is the Difference Between a Registered Teacher and a Permitted Teacher?
The difference between a registered and permitted teacher is that to apply for registered teacher status you must hold a teaching qualification, while to apply for permitted teacher status you can hold any academic qualification.
Registered Teacher status is generally considered the preferred and more permanent form of recognition.
Who Can Apply for Registered Teacher Status?
To be considered for Registered Teacher status, applicants typically need:
- To be resident in Hong Kong.
- A recognised degree or equivalent qualification.
- Professional teacher training qualifications.
- Teaching experience.
The EDB assesses each application individually and may request additional documentation where necessary.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Registered Teacher?
Most successful applicants hold:
- A bachelor's degree.
- A recognised teacher training qualification.
The EDB considers both local and overseas qualifications when assessing applications.
If you hold non-local qualifications, you will also need a copy of a qualifications assessment report issued by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic & Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) or similar.
Can International Teachers Become Registered Teachers in Hong Kong?
Yes.
Many teachers working in Hong Kong have completed their education and teacher training overseas or online.
Most international schools in Hong Kong require teachers to obtain Registered Teacher Status in order to work there.
Private schools offering non-formal curriculum may be exempt. Your school will be clear on what’s needed.
Does a PGCE Help with Teacher Registration in Hong Kong?
A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is one of the most widely recognised teacher training qualifications internationally, especially in Hong Kong.
For teachers who already hold a bachelor's degree, completing a PGCE can strengthen an application for Registered Teacher status by providing formal teacher training and pedagogical knowledge.
Many international schools and bilingual schools in Hong Kong also require candidates to hold a PGCE.
How to Apply for Registered Teacher Status in Hong Kong
A teacher can apply for Registered Teacher status through their school or individually. Always check the EDB's website for up to date details on how to apply.
In most cases, the application procedure includes the following steps:
- Fill out an application form
You can submit the form online or in hard copy. Both options are available on the Education Bureau's website.
The application form asks for details of:
- Your educational qualifications, both professional and academic.
- Your teaching experience in terms of number of years, as well as levels and subjects taught
- Two professional references.
- Gather supporting documentation
This usually includes:
- A copy of your Hong Kong Identity Card or a copy of your valid Hong Kong employment visa, landing slip bearing the conditions and limit of stay in Hong Kong or your HKSAR Document of Identity for Visa Purposes.
- A copy of all academic certificate(s), qualifications or diplomas held, including transcripts.
- If you hold non-local qualifications, you will also need a copy of a qualifications assessment report issued by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic & Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) or similar.
- A photograph meeting EDB requirements.
- Any other relevant documentation.
For full details, please visit the EDB's website.
If submitting via your school, your school supervisor or principal should endorse the copies of your documentation. This exempts you from being required to attend an interview to verify your documentation.
- Submit your application
A completed application form, including all necessary supporting documentation should be sent to the Teacher Registration Section of the Education Bureau.
Applicants may be required to attend an interview and bring originals of your documentation. During the interview, your documents will be verified.
If you have submitted via your school and your school has endorsed your documentation, this should not be necessary.
Can You Teach in Hong Kong Without a PGCE?
In some circumstances, schools may employ teachers who do not hold a PGCE or equivalent teacher training qualification.
However, obtaining professional teacher training significantly improves career prospects and may strengthen eligibility for Registered Teacher status.
Many educators choose to complete a PGCE, iQTS with PGCE, or other recognised teaching qualification to enhance their professional standing.
Are the University of Buckingham’s courses recognised by the Hong Kong Education Bureau?
The University of Buckingham’s PGCE (Hong Kong) meets all the requirements of the Education Bureau in Hong Kong. The iQTS with PGCE course will also meet the requirements.
Can I get Registered Teacher status if I don't live in Hong Kong?
To apply for Registered Teacher Status you need to provide a copy of your Hong Kong Identity Card or a copy of your valid Hong Kong employment visa, landing slip bearing the conditions and limit of stay in Hong Kong or your HKSAR Document of Identity for Visa Purposes.
If you are based outside Hong Kong but seeking Registered Teacher Status, you can start by gaining an accredited teaching qualification that meets the requirements of the Hong Kong Education Bureau.
The University of Buckingham offers both a PGCE and iQTS with PGCE course to international educators outside Hong Kong that have been shown to meet the requirements of the Education Bureau in Hong Kong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to obtain Registered Teacher status in Hong Kong?
Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and the documentation provided. Applicants should consult the Education Bureau for current timelines.
Can overseas qualifications be recognised?
You can hold a local Hong Kong teaching qualification or a teaching qualification obtained from another jurisdiction. If you hold a non-local teaching qualification, you must provide an additional qualifications assessment report issued by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic & Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) or similar.
To review the requirements of the HKCAAVQ, please visit their website.
Are International PGCE or online PGCE courses recognised?
Yes. A lot of PGCE qualifications are delivered online as they require teachers to be studying alongside a teaching role. This method is seen to deliver better learning outcomes as teachers need to be able to practice what they are learning in the classroom.
However, not all PGCEs are made equal. It is important to check with your PGCE provider, if obtaining Registered Teacher Status is your goal. If a PGCE course is listed on the non-local course registry page, then it is recognised by the EDB.
Is teaching experience required?
You are required to list your teaching experience in terms of number of years, levels and subjects taught on your application form.
Each application is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Do international schools require Registered Teacher status?
The Education Bureau of Hong Kong stipulates that “any person who teaches in a school has to be either a registered teacher or a permitted teacher”.
Most international schools require teachers to obtain Registered Teacher Status. Private schools offering non-formal curriculum may be exempt. Your school will be able to advise you.
Next Steps for Aspiring Teachers in Hong Kong
If you plan to build a teaching career in Hong Kong, obtaining recognised teacher training is often one of the most valuable investments you can make.
Qualifications such as a PGCE can help develop your classroom practice, improve employability, and support applications for teacher registration.
Before applying, always check the latest guidance from the Hong Kong Education Bureau, as policies and requirements may change over time.