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The Domestic Student Visa allows school-aged children of eligible work visa holders or student visa to study as domestic students in New Zealand. This visa is designed to ensure that children can access education at primary, intermediate, or secondary schools while their parent study or works in New Zealand. With the same rights as domestic students, your child can benefit from New Zealand's quality education system for the duration of your stay.
The Domestic Student Visa allows children of eligible New Zealand work or student visa holders to go to school as domestic students. This visa provides access to New Zealand’s education system without international student fees, ensuring children can attend primary, intermediate, or secondary school.
The visa duration matches the parent's visa status, allowing children to stay and study in New Zealand for as long as the parent’s visa is valid.
To be eligible, the child must be school-aged and the parent must hold a valid work or student visa. Additionally, the child must be financially dependent on the parent and not married or in a de facto relationship.
Visa holders can attend any New Zealand school as a domestic student, enjoying the same rights as other New Zealand students. They are exempt from paying international student fees, offering families a cost-effective option for their child’s education. Students studying in year 12 or 13, the last 2 years of secondary school can work up to 20 hours a week during the school year and full-time in the Christmas and New Year holiday period between school years.
The Domestic Student Visa does not directly lead to residency. However, as the parent transitions to residency or a longer-term visa, the child may remain eligible to stay and study in New Zealand under the same terms.
Step 1:
Confirm that the child is school-aged and the parent holds a valid New Zealand work or student visa that permits their child to study in New Zealand.
Step 2:
Collect required documents, including the child’s birth certificate, parent’s visa details, proof of financial support.
Step 3:
Submit your visa application online, attaching all required documents.
Step 4:
Immigration New Zealand reviews the application, and additional information may be requested.
Step 5:
Upon approval, the child can study as a domestic student in New Zealand for the duration of the parent’s visa.
Step 6:
Step 7:
Step 8:
Get all the information you need about applying for the Domestic Student Visa in our comprehensive webinar. Learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and the benefits of studying as a domestic student in New Zealand. This session is perfect for families looking to understand how their child can access quality education while living in New Zealand.
Prefer to make a direct enquiry rather than attend a webinar? This option offers you personalised assistance tailored to your specific situation. By choosing a direct enquiry, you'll save time and receive expert guidance from NZIL’s team on your Domestic Student Visa application. Whether you need help understanding your eligibility, preparing documents, or navigating the process, we’re here to provide clear, customised advice every step of the way.
Depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, your family (partner and dependent children) will generally be able to join you in New Zealand. However, there are limitations. Some are based on the remuneration level of your job offer. However, if you apply for a residence visa, you can include your family in your application. Get more information about the different types of visas.
If you’re applying for a visa based on your relationship, you and your partner will need to meet specific criteria in order to apply. Learn more about the visa requirements for you and your partner. If you’re looking to move your family over based on your working visa, find out more about family visa options.
Your family can be included in your Active Investor Plus Visa application. This can include a secondary applicant (such as your spouse/partner), and any dependent children under the age of 24 years.
