Job Discussion Forums

buddhaboyjp · Joined: 24 Jan 2006 Posts: 75 Location: Dai Po, Tai Wo

Greetings to all,

I am 43 yr old male, American with 13 yrs exp teaching EFL/ESL in Japan.
Just finishing up on the TEFL certification course (on-line) and have an A.A. (Associates Arts degree), ready sign up to finish last 2 yrs of B.A. (on-line) and soon to be married to a HK native, hopefully this summer of 2006.

Does this look ok legally and professionally for Private schools, Public schools, Privates and Universities for employment?

She can get me in as a "Dependant" for the Visa, but the work ID will have to come from the Employer.
If the Employer sees my qualifications ( as mentioned above) do I look hireable?

I really appreciate your honost assessment and thanks for your kindness.

hkchalky · Joined: 03 Nov 2005 Posts: 6 Location: Hong Kong

Yes, you would be employable and many of the private centres would consider you. The difficulty is in finding a good job at a good centre! Try Media Power, http://www.mediapower.com.hk They seem to be quite good and would value your maturity and experience, but there are many others out there, too. Perhaps other people can give some recommendations.

I'd recommend coming on a visitor's visa at first, then trying for a job with an employer who will sponsor your work visa. I have heard that it is much harder to switch from a dependent's visa to a work visa once you are here. I think US citizens can get a 90 day visitor's visa on landing in HK.

All the best for you marriage and the challenges that lie ahead!!

buddhaboyjp · Joined: 24 Jan 2006 Posts: 75 Location: Dai Po, Tai Wo

JZer · Joined: 16 Jan 2005 Posts: 3898 Location: Pittsburgh

Once you have your B.A. I would look into the NET program since they seem to offer a pay scale. If the private language schools in Hong Kong are the same as in Korea, you will probably earning the same wage in 10 years as you do now. Did your pay increase much while you were in Japan? I heard that they still pay the same about as 10 years ago.

If you ever apply for the NET scheme you should see if you can some how avoid declaring Hong Kong as your permanent residence, so you can get the special allowance of $1500 US a month that non-residence of Hong Kong receive for teaching in the public school system.

hkchalky · Joined: 03 Nov 2005 Posts: 6 Location: Hong Kong

You can't have your cake and eat it too! Be honest about your residency. Money isn't everything, especially if you have to be dishonest to get it!
You could give the NET scheme a try, but you might not be eligible until after you have attained at least a BA. You may have to go with private schools until you have your degree.