People ask the question – is it important to have a passport other than the HKSAR passport to enter international school. Increasingly the answer to this is yes.

Most international schools are expected to adhere to the conditions of their land lease. This means that they need to have a certain percentage of international passport holders and percentage of local HKSAR passport holders.

There are currently 54 international schools in the territory. For those considered private independent schools, there is more capacity for more HKSAR local families i.e. 70% to 30% non local. Other international schools have a 90%-10% ratio or 70%-30% for international passport holders.

In SEA’s experience, it is possible that families may have a local HKSAR passport and have to wait for the school to have space for local families. Those with international passport are likely to have less of a wait time. That being said, out of the 54 international schools there are definitely ample places for all students to attend school regardless of nationality.

The Education Bureau have indicated that international schools are private enterprises, therefore it is up to the schools to ensure their nationalities are diverse.

If you are struggled with navigating the international school system, SEA can assist.

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