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Study in Netherlands from Hong Kong

Everything you need to know about studying in the Netherlands as a student from Hong Kong: visa requirements, financial proof, scholarships, and tips from fellow Hong Kong students.

Visa Requirements

Visa Required
Visa Type
MVV + Residence Permit (for stays >90 days)
Processing Time
2-3 months

Note: Your Dutch university will typically sponsor your visa application (MVV). Start the process early and ensure all documents are ready at least 3 months before your intended start date.

Financial Requirements

Financial Proof Required
Required Amount
€11,000 per year

This amount covers living expenses. Tuition fees are separate and vary by program. EU students pay the statutory fee (~€2,314/year), while non-EU students pay institutional fees (€8,000-€20,000+/year).

Language Requirements

IELTS 6.0-7.0TOEFL 80-100

Most English-taught programs require proof of English proficiency. Some universities accept alternative tests or waive requirements for native speakers.

Tips for Hong Kong Students

  • 1
    HKSAR passport holders can enter the Netherlands visa-free for up to 90 days — but for study programmes you still need an MVV and residence permit
  • 2
    Your university typically handles the MVV and residence permit application on your behalf
  • 3
    Graduates from English-taught universities in Hong Kong (e.g. HKU, HKUST, CUHK, CityU, PolyU) may be exempt from IELTS/TOEFL — many Dutch universities accept an English-medium degree as proof of English proficiency
  • 4
    The Hong Kong government offers the HKSAR Government Scholarship Fund and other schemes for students pursuing degrees overseas
  • 5
    The Netherlands has strong ties with Hong Kong in trade and finance — good career opportunities post-graduation
  • 6
    Consider the orientation year (zoekjaar) visa after graduation to work in the Netherlands for up to 1 year

Hong Kong Student Community

250+ students
Growing community

in the Netherlands

Popular Programs

BusinessEconomicsEngineeringLawSocial Sciences

Quick Links

Browse All ProgramsEnglish-Taught ProgramsScholarshipsUniversitiesNL vs English-Speaking Countries

Frequently Asked Questions for Hong Kong Students

While BN(O) status doesn't provide special advantages for Netherlands study visas, Hong Kong students generally have strong English skills and international academic credentials that make them competitive applicants.
Hong Kong has a substantial community of approximately 250 students in the Netherlands. There are active Hong Kong student associations that organize networking events and provide support for newcomers.
No, Hong Kong is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Your degree needs to be authenticated by the Hong Kong government and then verified through the Dutch consulate before Nuffic evaluation.
Yes, Hong Kong's international banking system makes money transfers to the Netherlands relatively straightforward. Most major Hong Kong banks offer international wire transfer services with reasonable fees.
Yes, there are direct flights from Hong Kong to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, making travel between Hong Kong and the Netherlands convenient for studies and holidays.
Dutch universities often offer lower tuition fees than UK institutions, strong English-taught programs, and after graduation, the Netherlands provides better pathways to EU residence compared to post-Brexit UK policies.