New Zealand student visa requirements for Indonesians

Securing the correct student visa for New Zealand is a crucial step for Indonesian students. Not only does it legalise your stay, but it also ensures a smooth academic journey. It's essential to understand and fulfil these visa requirements to avoid potential setbacks. IDP can guide you through each step, ensuring your path to studying in New Zealand is clear and straightforward. 

New Zealand offers various student visas tailored to different educational needs and circumstances. IDP Indonesia can assist in your student visa application, specifically the Fee Paying Student Visa. 

1. Fee-paying student visa 

• Eligibility and conditions: Ideal for students enrolled in full-time courses that meet New Zealand's visa requirements. 

• Duration and extensions: This visa is usually valid for the same length as your study programme, up to a maximum of four years, allowing for an immersive educational experience in New Zealand. 

2. Pathway student visa 

• Eligibility and conditions: Tailored for students planning to undertake multiple courses over a period, within a five-year timeframe. 

• Pathway education providers and courses: This visa offers flexibility, allowing you to change courses or institutions while staying on the same visa. 

3. Exchange student visa 

• Eligibility and conditions: Designed for participants in approved exchange programmes. 

• Partner institutions and duration: The duration is typically aligned with the length of your exchange programme, facilitating cultural and educational exchange. 

4. Foreign government supported student visa 

• Eligibility and conditions: For students receiving scholarships or sponsorships from their government, like the LPDP scholarship. 

• Supported programmes and duration: The duration varies based on the scholarship or sponsorship terms, offering a pathway for government-supported education in New Zealand. 

Get into your course of choice 

Gaining acceptance into an approved course at a recognised institution is the first step. New Zealand's education system, renowned for its high standards, requires students to be enrolled in courses approved by the Ministry of Education or the NZQA. IDP counsellors can assist you in navigating these requirements and selecting the right course. 

Have sufficient funds for financial undertaking 

To be eligible for a student visa, you have to prove that you have: 

• Funding for tuition fees or proof of a scholarship 

• Evidence of sufficient living expenses 

• A return ticket or funds to purchase one 

Your IDP counsellor can guide you through the application process for your New Zealand student visa.  

Health and character requirements

Your health and character play a significant role in your student visa application. New Zealand requires a health check, including a tuberculosis screening for stays over six months, and a police clearance certificate to ensure you meet the character requirements.  

To apply for a student visa to study in New Zealand, you will need to prepare the following:

Core documentation 

• A valid passport 

• An offer letter from a recognised New Zealand educational institution 

Financial proof 

• Proof of NZ$15,000 for a full year or NZ$1,250 per month for living expenses 

• Documentation of financial undertaking or sponsorship 

• Scholarship details, if applicable 

Health and character documentation 

• A police clearance certificate as proof of good character 

• A chest X-ray and medical examination, if your stay is longer than six months 

You must also demonstrate your English competency with an IELTS score. Meeting the IELTS score prerequisites is essential for gaining admission to New Zealand's top universities. Additionally, some education providers may consider your English scores from year 12.

For students aged under 18 years, you will require a Guarantee of Stay. This written document may be obtained from an institution or person that states the student has suitable accommodation arranged in New Zealand.

If you have questions about New Zealand’s student visas, IDP Education counsellors are ready to help.  

The application process for your New Zealand student visa varies based on the visa type. IDP can help you manage the application process. Post-application, your IDP counsellor can assist with: 

• Tracking your application 

• What to do after receiving visa approval 

• What to do if your visa is declined 

Once in New Zealand, maintaining your student visa status involves: 

• Fulfilling your course attendance and academic performance requirements 

• Reporting any changes, such as address or course, to the immigration authorities. 

While some student visas allow part-time work, others are strictly for full-time study. It's crucial to understand the conditions of your specific visa. Learn more about your employment prospects while studying in New Zealand. 

Need help in applying for a student visa in New Zealand? IDP is here to help you in every step of the way!