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New Zealand study visa application process

New Zealand study visa application process

Step-by-Step Guide to the New Zealand Study Visa Application Process

The New Zealand Student Visa allows full-time students to study in the country for a maximum of four years. To qualify, you must cover your course expenses and enroll with an approved education provider. If you’re a distance learner but need to visit for over three months for practical study or exams, you can apply. With this visa, you can also work part-time, up to 20 hours a week, and live independently, based on your visa conditions.

Eligibility Requirements for a New Zealand Student Visa

To be eligible for a New Zealand Student Visa, you need to meet these requirements:

  1. Be of good character and in good health.
  2. Have a genuine plan to adhere to your visa conditions.
  3. Receive an offer of place from an approved education provider.
  4. Show enough funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
  5. Obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance for your stay.
  6. Demonstrate that you meet academic prerequisites.
  7. Provide details about your course and planned holidays.
  8. If 16/17, get permission to work.
  9. Clarify if practical work is a course requirement.

Required Documents for a New Zealand Student Visa

To apply for a New Zealand Student Visa, you’ll need to provide:

  1. Personal Documents:

    • Photos and passport (original or certified copy).

  2. Health & Character:

    • Medical exam, chest x-ray, and police certificate if staying over two years and above 17.

  3. School Offer:

    • Acceptance letter or confirmation from your school.

  4. Tuition Fee Proof:

    • Evidence of paying for one year of study.

  5. Insurance:

    • Health and travel insurance covering medical care, travel, and emergencies.

  6. Academic Records:

    • Transcripts, a letter, or attendance documentation.

  7. Funds for Living:

    • Proof of funds for living costs.

  8. Travel Plans:

    • Onward travel ticket, sponsor form, or proof of funds for a ticket.

  9. Work Permission:

    • If applicable, permission to work from your education provider or legal guardian.

  10. Guardian Details:

    • Details if you’re accompanied by a parent/guardian.

  11. Course & Holidays Info:

    • Information about your course, holidays, and proof of practical work if required.

  12. Passing Your Course:

    • Evidence of meeting course requirements, like a letter from your institution or a course outline.”

Remember, always check for additional requirements or changes in the application process.

Additional Documents for an Exchange Student NZ Visa

To ensure you’re seen as a genuine applicant for a New Zealand Student Visa, it’s recommended to include the following:

  1. Cover Letter:

    Clearly state:
    • Your study plans.
    • Post-study plans.
    • Reasons for choosing the specific course and institution.
    • Details about your education and training.
    • Explanation for any gaps in education or work history.
    • Financial plan for tuition and living expenses.
    • Relationship with your sponsor, if applicable.

  2. Travel History:

    • Include copies of all pages of your current and previous passports.
    • If travel is in electronic records, provide a summary of your international travel history.

  3. Previous Visa Rejections:

    • Provide letters and reasons for any past visa rejections from other countries.

  4. Supporting Evidence:

    • Include documents that back up the information in your application and cover letter or statement of purpose.”

This ensures a comprehensive and transparent application.

How to Apply Online for a New Zealand Student Visa?

To successfully apply for a New Zealand Student visa, follow these steps:

  1. Online Application:

  2. Document Upload:

    • Upload all required documents in PDF format as specified by the application.

  3. Application Fee Payment:

    • Pay the application fee online using a Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay credit/debit card.

  4. Submission:

    • Submit your application after providing all necessary information, documents, and payment.
    • You’ll receive an email from Immigration New Zealand once they start processing your application.
    • Upon visa approval, you’ll be notified, and the eVisa is necessary for entering New Zealand.

How to Apply on Paper for a New Zealand Student Visa?

To apply for an NZ Student visa on paper, follow these steps:

  1. Complete Application:

    • Fill out the Student Visa Application (INZ 1012) form, specifying your application for an NZ Student visa.
    • Attach photos with your name written on the back.

  2. Book Appointment:

    • Schedule an appointment at a visa application office. You can use Global services in the nearest country with a visa application center.
    • Receive a confirmation email after booking.

  3. Document Submission:

    • Attend the appointment 15 minutes early and submit all required documents.
    • You’re allowed one rescheduling.

  4. Fee Payment:

    • Pay the required fees during your appointment with cash, Visa, or Mastercard.
    • Ensure you have sufficient funds to avoid application return.

  5. Track Application:

    • Receive email updates from Immigration New Zealand after processing.
    • Stay informed through SMS updates on your return courier.

Fees for a New Zealand Student Visa

 Application FeeVisa Application Center FeeCourier Fee
Online ApplicationNZD $430––
Paper Application NZD $440 —  $ 485NZD $ 46 —  $ 77NZD $ 13 —  $ 100

Processing Time for a New Zealand Student Visa

The processing time for a Fee Paying Student visa is typically 45 days. You’ll receive notification about your application status within this period.

Important FAQs

With a New Zealand Student visa, you can stay in the country for up to four years, depending on the duration of your enrolled courses.

Here’s a simplified list of the conditions for the NZ Student visa:

    1. Apply for entry permission upon arrival in New Zealand.
    2. Enjoy multiple-entry travel privileges.
    3. Possess a travel ticket or adequate funds for one.
    4. Demonstrate financial support for your stay.
    5. Maintain medical and travel insurance throughout your stay.
    6. Have the flexibility to work part-time and full-time during holidays.
    7. Ensure your parent or legal guardian stays with you during your visit.
    8. Commit to full-time study at an approved education provider.
    9. Depart from New Zealand before the visa expiration date.

In New Zealand, as an international student holding a student visa, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. However, during holidays, you have the flexibility to work full-time. Keep in mind that once you start employment, you are required to pay taxes, and you can apply for an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number through Inland Revenue to fulfill this obligation.

You can’t include your family on an NZ Student visa application. They may apply for the relevant family visa to join you.