Everything you need to know about visas to New Zealand

Everything you need to know about visas to New Zealand

The visa you need will depend on the type of study you want to pursue, and how long you intend to stay in New Zealand. A valid passport and the right visa are key to trouble-free entry.

Furthermore, once you’re studying in New Zealand, it is important to maintain your Fee Paying student status. This status relates to the purpose or reason why you came to New Zealand.

Importance of obtaining the right visa

  • But why is having the correct visa so critical?

  • Legal Compliance: Without the right student visa, you risk violating New Zealand's immigration rules and incurring legal repercussions.

  • Uninterrupted Education: The right visa prevents unnecessary interruptions in your studies.

  • Access to Benefits: Certain student visas come with perks like the ability to work part-time during your course or extended stays post-study to search for a job.

  • Financial Implications: Applying for the wrong student visa could cause you to pay more fees for reapplication.

Types of student visas

  • Fee paying student visa

This student visa suits students looking to study full-time in New Zealand. It allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to four years, but the duration normally corresponds to the length of your study.

  • Pathway student visa

This visa is ideal for students who intend to take multiple sequential courses in New Zealand. It allows you to stay in the country for up to five years.

  • Exchange student visa

This visa is for students outside New Zealand accepted into an approved exchange programme and allows you to stay for up to four years.

Foreign government supported student visa

If you are funded by a foreign government with a formal education agreement with New Zealand, this student visa allows you to study in New Zealand full-time for up to four years.

How to be eligible for New Zealand’s student visa

Get into your course of choice

To be eligible for a student visa, you must first be accepted into a course at an educational institution that's approved either by the Ministry of Education or the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). This vouches for the legitimacy and quality of your intended study programme.

Have sufficient funds or financial undertaking

  • Financial stability is another key aspect of your visa application, and you’ll need to:

  • Prove that you have a scholarship or have secured funds to cover your tuition fees.

  • Prove that you have adequate funds for your living expenses while studying in New Zealand.

  • Show that you possess a return ticket or have the financial means to purchase one.

Health and character requirements

A police certificate, X-ray certificate and medical examination are also required as proof of your health and character.

Documentation

To apply for a student visa to New Zealand, you must have the following documentation ready:

Core documentation

A valid passport valid for at least three months after your stay in New Zealand.

A letter of acceptance from a New Zealand education provider which states the minimum course duration, total tuition fee and whether the tuition fee is in domestic or foreign currency. The study programme must be approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

You may also need additional documentation such as:

  • Academic preparation documents such as transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates

  • Current application form – Student visa application form

  • Visa application fee

  • Tuition fee receipt showing payment to date

  • Evidence that you are leaving New Zealand after the completion of your course. This can be in the form of flight tickets, however, it is optional.

  • A police certificate if you are 17 years or above and plan to study for more than 24 months. A police certificate is a document used as evidence of good character.

  • An X-ray certificate - you will need to have a chest x-ray if you are staying in New Zealand for more than six months, if you’re a citizen of a country with a relatively high incidence of tuberculosis, or if you’ve spent more than three months in the last five years in a country with a relatively high incidence of tuberculosis

  • Full medical examination

Financial proof

You may also have to show evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses throughout your stay. You must show you have NZ$20,000 for a full year of study or NZ$1,667 per month. This may include:

  • Bank statements:

  • Financial undertaking by a sponsor to cover accommodation and living costs.

  • A scholarship programme

Application process

The student visa application process in New Zealand varies by visa type. You can find out more about each of the different types of visas and how to apply on the New Zealand Government’s Immigration website. Otherwise, IDP is here to guide you every step of the way. Fix a free appointment with your IDP counsellor to enquire about the process in detail.

Post-application steps

After your application, keep an eye on any updates. Upon approval, begin preparations for your trip by booking flights and arranging accommodation. Should your application be declined, IDP can advise on the next steps.

Maintaining your student visa

Once you've secured your student visa, ensure you maintain its validity during your study period in New Zealand by attending classes diligently and meeting the academic requirements. Additionally, always report any significant changes to the immigration authorities promptly to prevent any complications.

Working while studying in New Zealand

Studying in New Zealand offers flexibility for international students to work part-time. On most student visas, you're permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during your course. However, it's essential to double-check the conditions, as not all student visas allow work alongside studies.