Kindergarten Vaccination Requirements in Hong Kong: Required Vaccines & Schedule
Learn about required vaccines for kindergarten admission in Hong Kong, the childhood immunisation schedule, and catch-up vaccination arrangements.
What Vaccines Are Required for Kindergarten?
According to the Department of Health's "Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme", children should complete the following vaccinations before entering K1 (around age 3):
| Vaccine | Schedule | Doses |
|---|---|---|
| BCG (Tuberculosis) | At birth | 1 dose |
| Hepatitis B | Birth, 1 month, 6 months | 3 doses |
| DTaP-IPV (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio) | 2, 4, 6, 18 months | 4 doses |
| Pneumococcal Vaccine | 2, 4, 12 months | 3 doses |
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | 12 months | 1 dose |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | 12 months | 1 dose |
What Documents Are Needed for Enrolment?
Kindergartens typically require parents to submit a copy of the "Immunisation Record" (commonly called the "vaccination card") during registration. Schools will verify that vaccinations meet admission requirements.
The vaccination card is issued at Maternal and Child Health Centres (MCHCs). Keep it safe. If lost, you can apply for a replacement at your MCHC.
What If Vaccinations Are Incomplete?
If your child cannot be vaccinated on schedule due to health or other reasons:
- Catch up promptly: Contact your MCHC to arrange catch-up vaccinations
- Notify the school: Provide a medical certificate explaining the delay
- Create a catch-up plan: Work with healthcare professionals on a revised schedule
Most kindergartens accept reasonable delays with proper documentation.
Are Vaccinations Mandatory?
Hong Kong does not legally mandate childhood vaccinations, however:
- Most kindergartens require students to complete basic vaccinations
- Unvaccinated children may need to sign disclaimer forms
- During disease outbreaks, unvaccinated students may be asked to stay home
Where to Get Vaccinated?
- Maternal and Child Health Centres: Free vaccines under the Childhood Immunisation Programme
- Private clinics: Self-paid vaccinations with flexible scheduling
Official Resources
- Department of Health - Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme
- Maternal and Child Health Centre Services
Source: Family Health Service, Department of Health, Hong Kong. Consult healthcare professionals for specific advice.