Hong Kong•AsiaStudent Exchange Programme Visa (學生交流計劃簽證)
At a Glance
1 month
HKD $600
1 year
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Exchange program visa for students at recognised Hong Kong institutions, allowing 6-12 months stay with curriculum-related internships only.
Hong Kong's Student Exchange Programme Visa permits international students to spend one or two semesters at a recognized tertiary institution through formal bilateral exchange agreements. Applicants must be nominated by their home university and admitted to a Hong Kong partner institution; they must also demonstrate sufficient financial means and hold a valid travel document.
The visa permits stays of up to 12 months for undergraduate or above exchange, or up to 6 months for sub-degree exchange. Exchange students cannot work except for curriculum-related internships in year-long programs; spouses have no independent work rights. Processing typically takes 6 weeks after receiving all documents.
This visa is ideal for university students pursuing a semester or year abroad at a Hong Kong institution through their home university's exchange partnership.
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Hong KongIANG — Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (非本地畢業生留港/回港就業安排)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be admitted to a recognised exchange programme at a Hong Kong educational institution.
Must nominate a local sponsor (usually the admitting institution).
Must have sufficient financial means to cover tuition and living expenses.
Must hold a valid travel document.
Must be a full-time student at the home institution.
KEY CRITERIA
Education
high_school or higher
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Admission letter
Proof of financial support
Health examination
Character reference
Institution enrollment confirmation (sponsor)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Fast processing: Visa typically issued within 6 weeks of receiving all documents
- Full legal stay duration: Protection for the entire exchange programme period (normally 12 months or program duration)
- Streamlined application: Institutional sponsor handles coordination; uses single form (ID 995A)
- Renewable status: Can extend within programme parameters if studies continue
- Access to Hong Kong tertiary infrastructure: World-class universities and research facilities
- Dependents allowed: Family members may accompany on exchange
- Low application fee: HKD 600 single payment covers entire entry process
Worth Knowing
- Employment strictly prohibited: No paid or unpaid work allowed; no curriculum-related internship pathway exists
- Time-bound stay: Limited to programme duration (maximum 12 months for non-degree programs)
- Spouse cannot work: Partners prohibited from employment during exchange period
- Early application required: Submit 8-10 weeks before start date for processing buffer
- Specific form required: Must use Form ID 995A (applicant); sponsor institution completes separate documentation
- No permanent residency pathway: Exchange visas do not lead to PR or long-term settlement
- Mandatory return to home country: Visa expires upon programme conclusion; no extension options beyond original programme
- Full-time student requirement: Must remain enrolled at home institution throughout exchange
Application Process
Secure admission
Obtain admission letter from Hong Kong educational institution
Nominate sponsor
Institution acts as local sponsor
Complete application
Fill Form ID 995A
Gather documents
Admission letter, passport, financial proof, health check if required
Submit application
Submit online via GovHK with HKD 600 fee
Await processing
Normally 6 weeks
Receive e-Visa
Digital visa issued
Application Forms
Go to application portal| ID 995A – Application for Entry for Study in Hong Kong (applicant) | — |
| ID 995B – Application for Entry for Study in Hong Kong (sponsor) | — |
Related visas
More visas in Hong Kong
Study visas in other countries
- Study Permit
Canada
- Student Visa
United Kingdom
- Student Visa
Bhutan
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