New Zealand Student Visa: Types, Cost, Documents, Application Process & More by BharathRise- Best Study Abroad Consultants in India

An In-Depth Guide to New Zealand Student Visa

A country with a world-class education system, amazing teaching facilities, and high-quality research, New Zealand offers an unmatched study-abroad experience. With all the universities ranked in the world’s top 3%, students have the best options to choose from. Over the years, more and more students are opting to study in New Zealand because of the work experience, skills, and opportunities it provides, making it one of the leading study destinations.

If you, too, are an aspirant willing to study in New Zealand, then you must know that a student visa is required for international students. In this article, we will discuss everything about New Zealand student visas. So, read till the end to understand the entire process.

Table of Contents

1. Types of New Zealand Student Visas

2. Cost of New Zealand Student Visa Application

3. New Zealand Student Visa Processing Timeline

4. New Zealand Student Visa Eligibility

5. Documents Required for New Zealand Student Visa

6. New Zealand Student Visa Application Process

7. FAQs

Types of New Zealand Student Visas

Depending on the course duration and other requirements, New Zealand classifies student visas into three types. They include:

• Fee-paying Visa - With this visa, you can study in New Zealand for up to four years and work part-time as well.

• Exchange Student Visa - With this visa, you can study for up to four years in New Zealand in an exchange program only.

• Pathway Student Visa - With this visa, you can study in New Zealand for up to five years in three consecutive courses and work part-time.

Now that you have an idea about the student visa types, let’s glance at the application fees.

Cost of New Zealand Student Visa Application

Applying for a New Zealand student visa comes with its set of expenses. The latest application fees for each visa type are mentioned below:

• Fee-paying Visa - NZ $850 (Approximately)

• Exchange Student Visa - Starts at NZ $750

• Pathway Student Visa - Starts at NZ $750

Apart from these standard fees, you might have to bear some additional charges for document translation if they are not in English.

New Zealand Student Visa Processing Timeline

Timeline is everything when applying for a student visa. Any delay in the application will result in missing the start of your course. To avoid this, get an idea of the processing duration below.

The processing time in New Zealand depends on the type of education provider:

• Universities - 3 weeks

• Private Training Establishments (PTE) - 4 weeks

• Te Pūkenga (New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology) - 5 weeks

If you wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master's in New Zealand in a single course, then the ideal choice of visa for you is the fee-paying visa. Read on to find out if you meet all the required prerequisites.

New Zealand Student Visa Eligibility

Before applying for the visa, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements:

• You must be accepted into a course at an education institution or university approved by the Ministry of Education or New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

• Provide evidence that you can pay the tuition fee or proof of a scholarship that covers your fees.

• You must have proof of financial means to support your livelihood while studying in New Zealand.

• You need proof that you have enough funds to purchase a return ticket to your home country.

Once you qualify for the above criteria, you can start collecting the mandatory documents.

Documents Required for New Zealand Student Visa

The necessary documents required when applying for a study visa for higher education in New Zealand are listed below:

• A colored passport-size photo

• A passport with validity extending at least three months beyond your stay

• E-medicals from an empanelled doctor

• Police clearance certificate

• Translated documents (if not in English)

Additional Documents:

• Academic documents

• Proof of employment history (if any)

• Proof of funds (indicating you can support yourself while studying in NZ)

• Financial guarantor’s information (identity and relationship proof)

• English language test scores

• Statement of purpose

After collecting these documents, you can proceed with the visa application process.

New Zealand Student Visa Application Process

The final step after verifying your eligibility and gathering the necessary documents is to apply for a visa to study in New Zealand. You can apply either online or through a printed form. Whichever method you choose, ensure that you apply at least two months before your course commencement date.

Step 1: Gather Supporting Documents

Submit all necessary documents to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) at the time of application. This ensures smooth processing and a quicker decision. If applying online, you must scan and upload all documents.

Step 2: Start & Complete the Visa Application Process

You will have to pay an immigration cost and student centre fee based on whether you apply online or on paper. Fees vary depending on the city of application. You can check the cost on the official Government website of New Zealand.

Step 3: Receive the Student Visa

Once submitted, it takes approximately a month for INZ to process your application. Upon approval, an e-visa will be issued. Keep a printed copy and save the visa on your mobile to present at the border upon arrival.

Now you are all set for your higher education in New Zealand! Book your flight and get ready for an exciting academic journey.

Need Assistance? Connect with BharathRise!

If you still have any doubts regarding the student visa process or need expert guidance on studying in New Zealand, BharathRise is here to help! Our experts provide end-to-end assistance, from university selection to visa approval.

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FAQs

1. Is it mandatory to show self-funds for a New Zealand student visa application?

It is not compulsory to show funds if ITRs are available. However, international students can provide proof of funds that are at least three months old with proper sources.

2. How much funding is required for the entire study duration?

In addition to tuition fees, you must show proof of NZD 20,000 per year for living costs. Explore sponsorship or scholarships if personal funds fall short.

3. What medical tests are required for a New Zealand student visa?

Only a chest X-ray is required for a New Zealand student visa.

4. Can international students bring their family while studying in New Zealand?

Certain student visa categories allow family members to travel to New Zealand. Spouses of students pursuing qualifications leading to a Green List occupation may apply for a work visa. Children can enroll as domestic students.

5. Is it possible to switch courses or universities after arriving in New Zealand?

Yes, but approval from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is required. The new course must meet visa conditions, and additional documentation may be needed.

6. What happens if an international student fails a course or needs extra time to complete studies?

If you need to extend your study duration, you must apply for a visa extension, providing an updated offer of place and proof of funds for the additional time.