The IGDS welcomes applications from non-Hong Kong residents. A "non-local student" is defined as one who requires a student visa to study in Hong Kong or is staying in Hong Kong under the "Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates" (IANG). If you are holding a valid work permit, you do not require a student visa to take a part-time programme, but you do need to apply for a student visa to take a full-time programme. If you are holding a dependent visa, you will be considered as a local student and will follow the admissions arrangements for local students.

Non-local students taking up part-time postgraduate studies at PolyU will likely be issued with a short-term multiple-entry student visa. When you only possess a visitor or tourist visa, we cannot register you as a student or allow you to commence study until a student visa is obtained.

If you have given an offer and confirmed a study place on the IGDS, our Office will assist you to apply for a Hong Kong Study Visa. This normally takes four to six weeks.

For a Hong Kong Study Visa application, the applicants have to provide the IGDS Office with the following documents.

• Offer letter from the IGDS
• Copy of Identity Card
• One recent passport photograph
• Original completed Application Form for Entry for Study in Hong Kong (Form ID995A)
• Copy of proof of financial support (e.g. sponsor’s income statements)
• Declaration for Student Visa Sponsorship, if necessary
• Proof of relationship between sponsor and applicant, if necessary (e.g. birth certificate or household registration)

Remark: The Immigration Department may ask for further information or documents when considering your application