Do I need a licence to run a school or tutoring centre

Do I Need a Licence to Run a School or Tutoring Centre

Yes. Operating a school or tutoring centre in Hong Kong requires separate registration with the Education Bureau. This is in addition to the general Business Registration Certificate every business must hold.

Schools and tutorial centres are "registered", not "licensed". The effect is the same: you must apply to and be approved by the Education Bureau before you can operate.

Hong Kong School Licence

A school in Hong Kong must be registered with the Education Bureau under the Education Ordinance (Cap. 279). This applies to kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools and other institutions providing formal education. The Education Bureau issues a Certificate of Registration, confirming the school meets standards for premises, staff qualifications and curriculum.

Operating an unregistered school is an offence. The Education Bureau may issue a closure order and the operator may face prosecution. This registration is separate from the Business Registration Certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department.

Tutoring Centre Licence Hong Kong

Tutorial centres are classified as "private schools" under the Education Ordinance and must also be registered with the Education Bureau. This covers centres offering supplementary education, examination preparation or language classes.

The Education Bureau distinguishes between "registered" and "permitted" tutorial centres. A registered centre meets all statutory requirements. A permitted centre may operate temporarily while working towards full registration. Both statuses require a permit and approval before opening.

Operating without registration is illegal, even if the centre holds a Business Registration Certificate.

Education Bureau Registration Hong Kong

Registration with the Education Bureau involves submitting an application to the bureau's School Registration Section. The application must detail the proposed premises, curriculum and teaching staff qualifications. The bureau inspects premises to verify compliance with health, safety and space requirements.

Premises must meet fire safety standards set by the Fire Services Department and structural safety standards set by the Buildings Department. The Education Bureau coordinates with these departments during the application process. Information on the process is available on the govhk portal.

Fees and processing times vary. Check the Education Bureau's website for current fee schedules.

Private School Licence Hong Kong

The term "private school licence" covers both full-time private schools and part-time tutorial centres. A private school that is not a tutorial centre, such as an international school, must also register. The same regulations under the Education Ordinance apply.

A company operating a school or tutorial centre must first incorporate or register as a business and obtain a Business Registration Certificate. Then, it must apply separately for Education Bureau registration. The Business Registration Certificate is not a trade licence; it confirms the business is registered for tax purposes only.

What to Do Next

Confirm your operation's category: a full-time school, a part-time tutorial centre or another educational establishment. Contact the Education Bureau's School Registration Section to request the appropriate application forms and guidance notes. Prepare the required documents, including lease agreements, floor plans and staff qualification certificates. Expect an inspection before approval is granted.

If you are unsure whether your activity requires registration, seek legal advice or consult the Education Bureau directly. Operating without the required registration risks closure and prosecution. Note that other business activities, such as operating a canteen, may require a separate permit from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. If your school offers travel services as part of its curriculum, this may be a regulated activity requiring a licence from the Travel Industry Authority. Similarly, providing insurance to students is a regulated activity overseen by the Insurance Authority. Employment matters are handled by the Commissioner for Labour, and some specific trades may have their own licensing requirements.