EDB: Dependants must hold valid documents to enter public sector schools
Data from the Immigration Department reveals that from January 1 of last year to the end of August this year, more than 150,000 people have arrived in Hong Kong under various talent admission schemes. During the same period, around 140,000 dependents accompanied them, of which approximately 82,000 were under the age of 18 at the time of application.
The Education Bureau (EDB) has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation regarding dependents of talent program participants enrolling in public schools. The bureau also reminded public schools that they must ensure these students hold valid documents. Without such documents, schools are prohibited from arranging their enrollment.
For dependents of individuals under the "Top Talent Pass Scheme", if they cannot renew their visas after two years, their children's schooling and tuition arrangements in HK will also face uncertainty.
A recent statement by immigration consultants highlighted that if a student's status changes, the parents are obligated to inform the school. Failure to do so could result in legal risks.
Mr. Cheung, Director of Goldmax Associates, pointed out that, generally, if a person admitted through a talent scheme cannot renew their visa, their children will lose their dependent status. Consequently, they will no longer be eligible to enroll in HK primary or secondary schools as local students.
According to the EDB's guidelines on the admission of "non-local children," these children are not entitled to places in public sector schools, including government, aided, and Caput schools. Although English Schools Foundation schools and Direct Subsidy Scheme schools can admit non-local children, these children are not eligible for government subsidy.
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