Entry for study
student visa/entry permit
Non-local students admitted to a full-time locally-accredited post-secondary programme, certain part-time taught postgraduate programmes, exchanges, registered non-local courses, or private primary and secondary schools can apply to the Immigration Department (ImmD) for a study visa. Each applicant needs a local sponsor, which can be the institution. Students may not work except for approved internships and, for full-time local undergraduates and above, limited part-time and summer work.
Life in Hong Kong SAR China
Money
3
Currency
Hong Kong Dollar
HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
Cost of living
74
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
2–17%
Income tax (national)
Salaries tax is the lower of progressive rates (2%-17%) on net chargeable income or the standard rate (15% on first HKD 5m of net income, 16% above).
Living
1
Happiness
#88 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Premium
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
International students admitted to Hong Kong institutions who can pay fees and living costs without working.
Eligibility
Admission
Admitted to a full-time locally-accredited post-secondary programme (including short courses), a part-time locally-accredited taught postgraduate local programme, an exchange (sub-degree up to 6 months; undergraduate or above up to one year), a full-time course on the non-local register, or a registered private primary or secondary school (public/aided schools excluded except ESF and DSS schools).
Age for school studySchool students
5 years 8 months to 11 for primary education; under 20 for secondary education.
Funds
Able to meet fees, living costs and accommodation without working and without recourse to public funds.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirement
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