To study abroad in New Zealand, obtaining a student visa is essential yet not as daunting as it seems. Allow us to guide you through the process smoothly.
Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, hospitable locals, and bustling urban centers, New Zealand is a much sought-after study destination. Enveloped by elite universities from all corners of the globe, students can trust to receive an exceptional education along with an animated campus life.
Multiple visa options are available in New Zealand for foreign students, and even though the procedure might appear daunting at first glance, don’t be discouraged. Our guide will equip you with all the essential information to simplify your application process.
What visa is suitable for your needs?
To determine the most suitable visa for you, consult our informative table before beginning your application process. Australian citizens/residents are not required to obtain a New Zealand visa when studying in the country.
| What visa is suitable for your needs? | ||
| Type of Course | Duration | Visa type |
| on a short course | less than three months | Visitor visa |
| on a short course while on holiday | up to six months | Working holiday visa |
| Consecutive courses with a Pathway education provider | up to five years | Pathway student visa |
| on a student exchange scheme | three months or more | Exchange student visa |
| full-time on a government loan or scholarship | up to four years | Foreign government-supported visa |
| full-time for longer than three months | up to four years | Fee-paying student |
Which courses am I eligible to study?
To study full-time in New Zealand with a student visa, the education provider you choose must be listed and approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.
- Institutions of higher education
- Educational institution
- A privately owned training institution.
- The vocational education system of New Zealand is called Te Pūkenga.
- School for learning the English language.
What are the privileges of a New Zealand student visa?
As a rule of thumb, a student visa enables you to reside and receive education in New Zealand for the duration of your program, up to four years at most. Should you wish for your family members to join you on this venture, they may seek visas based on their affiliation with you.
Work
In New Zealand, the majority of international students are permitted to engage in employment while pursuing their studies. Typically, during term time, work hours may not exceed 20 per week (with unlimited opportunities available during study breaks). Additional information about student visa regulations regarding working can be obtained for those interested.
Additional regulations for obtaining a student visa in New Zealand
In New Zealand, international students are required to:
- Ensure attendance in the course is satisfactory.
- Achieve adequate academic advancement.
- During their trip, it is required to have insurance coverage for both medical and travel purposes.
You cannot
Note that each visa is distinct and granted individually based on the situation. There may be additional provisions included in your specific visa depending upon your circumstances.
- Obtain payments from the government’s social welfare program.
- Become your boss by working as a self-employed individual.
- You can study at any place except the educational institution mentioned on your visa.
Prepare yourself
To apply for your student visa in New Zealand, you will be required to have:
- A passport that is presently valid and will remain so for a minimum of three months past your intended departure from New Zealand.
- A placement offer provided by an accredited educational institution, or proof of enrollment/registration for returning students.
The place you offered
Before commencing your New Zealand student visa application, you need to possess an offer of admission to the course that interests you. Your educational institute must provide a formal confirmation for this requirement.
- Please provide the title and duration of your course.
- Your study hours and mode of learning (e.g. full-time or remote)
- Confirmation of payment for your tuition fees.
- The scheduled holidays of your course.
Coverage
For the duration of their stay in New Zealand, international students are required to acquire complete medical and travel insurance coverage. To find out what is included under this type of policy, please refer to additional information provided on the matter.
While your education provider may offer assistance with arranging for such insurance plans, you can also request their aid if they do not already provide it themselves.
Conversely, PhD students have the option but are not obligated to secure a suitable insurance plan as deemed necessary or preferred by each individual’s circumstance when studying abroad in New Zealand.
What is the appropriate time to apply?
The optimum time to submit your application for a New Zealand student visa is over three months before the commencement of your course. The exact timing may vary based on the location from where you apply.
Expenses
Submitting an online application for a New Zealand student visa incurs a fee of NZD 375. Paper applications also have similar costs, but the payment currency may differ. Furthermore, you might need to pay additional charges at the centers where visas are obtained.
To support themselves while living in New Zealand, international students must demonstrate they have access to at least NZD 1,250 per month. Methods of demonstrating this capability include:
- Bank statements duplicated.
- Proof of payment for your living expenses is required as documentation.
- A sponsorship form that has been filled out and finalized.
- A form that has been finished for a financial project.
Once your application is preliminarily approved, you will be required to provide proof of sufficient funds for tuition fees by providing:
- records of financial transactions such as bank statements, loans/grants/scholarship receipts; or
- A document from your educational institution confirming that your fees have been settled (or that you are exempted from fee payment).
- There are informative articles accessible on the topic of living expenses and tuition fees in New Zealand.
Conclusion
To apply for a New Zealand student visa, you have the option to do so either online or by using paper documentation. Just make sure that before submitting your application, you are prepared with the necessary payment method such as a credit or debit card. Beginning an online student visa application is also possible.
You have the option of downloading a paper form instead. To locate your nearby receiving center (which is where you must send it to), refer to the list found on the website of the New Zealand government.
