Student visa or entry permit required for non-local students admitted to full-time programmes at recognised educational institutions in Hong Kong. Covers locally-accredited undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, sub-degree programmes, and other approved courses. Applications processed through the Immigration Department.
Non-local undergraduate tuition at public universities: HKD 145,000–HKD 200,000/yr ($18,500–$25,500). HKU charges HKD 198,000/yr for 2024–2025 intake. Sub-degree and self-financing programmes: HKD 80,000–HKD 130,000/yr. Postgraduate tuition varies widely.
Since 1 November 2024, non-local students (excluding exchange students) in full-time locally-accredited programmes at undergraduate level or above (study period of at least 1 academic year) are temporarily exempted from employment restrictions. The exemption has been extended to the end of 2026. No cap on hours, no location restriction — can work part-time or full-time anywhere in Hong Kong. ImmD issues No Objection Letters (NOL) through institutions. Previously, work was limited to 20 hours/week on-campus during term and unlimited during summer.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min Degree | Work | PR Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IANG (Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates) | Work permit | 24mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | Yes |
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min Score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT / IELTS | Admission | English | — | Most Hong Kong universities teach in English. TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.0+ typically required. Some programmes at Chinese University of Hong Kong or HKU may accept Chinese proficiency. |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa / Entry Permit Fee | Application | $42 | One time |
Student time counts toward 7-year permanent residency requirement (IANG + work time combined with student time). HKD 330 visa fee effective from September 2025. Since November 2024, non-local undergraduate and postgraduate students can work without hour restrictions, with the temporary exemption extended through the end of 2026. Immigration Department e-visa system available for online applications.
- Hong Kong New CIES (investor visa)
Last verified: May 3, 2026. Source