Job Discussion Forums

tim_watts · Joined: 15 Jan 2010 Posts: 17 Location: London

Could some helpful person kindly give me some advice?

I'm a native. I have a degree, CELTA and a few years EFL experience.

I am thinking seriously of flying into HK soon and looking for work on the ground. I am very flexible about what work I do, whether it be teaching children, teenagers or adults. Private, Public or university teaching. I would also be happy to do some proof-reading work and private lessons to top-up my wages. I just want a reasonable salary to be able to live modestly and enjoy life there for a little while.

What do you think my chances are of finding work?

Thanks in advance.

Perilla · Joined: 09 Jul 2010 Posts: 792 Location: Hong Kong

Maybe. The main thing to consider is how long you can survive financially while seeking work. On arrival you can't work legally - you need to get a work visa through an employer. Obviously, finding a suitable job and then waiting while the visa application process goes through is going to take a while. On the plus side, actually being here will increase your chances - many (or most) applications from abroad go straight in the bin (except for the high-end jobs, like the NET prog, international schools or the unis).

tim_watts · Joined: 15 Jan 2010 Posts: 17 Location: London

Perilla · Joined: 09 Jul 2010 Posts: 792 Location: Hong Kong

How long does the visa process take? I'm not exactly sure, but I imagine you'd be lucky to find youself working legally in less than 2-3 months after arrival, unless you get things rolling before you arrive. Maybe someone else can give a more accurate prediction.

For NET prog and international school jobs you generally need QTS, although Primary NETs are sometimes appointed without it. For uni jobs you usually need a TESOL-related masters degree, or a PhD for the best jobs.

Joshua2006 · Joined: 04 Jan 2010 Posts: 342

NET are advertising right now.....

sistercream · Joined: 18 Dec 2010 Posts: 497 Location: Pearl River Delta

Assuming all your and your potential employer's documents are in order, a working visa should take 4- 6 working weeks. HK Immigration (the visa processing body) is pretty good about adhering to its performance pledges.

Captain_Fil · Posted: Sun Mar 13, 2011 8:46 pm Post subject:

With your education and experience, I think you'll do fine in Hong Kong.

As a newbie, I can only dream of your qualifications. I have my BA degree and my US passport. But I'm still seeking CELTA certification. And I yet to have any TEFL experience. Embarassed

Your biggest concern is financial. Just have enough money until you receive your first paycheck. Hong Kong is an expensive city.

Good luck.

Cool