New Zealand offers a range of student visas to suit different study pathways. Whether you're paying full fees, joining an exchange program, or studying multiple courses with one visa, NZIL can help you navigate the visa process. These visas allow you to live and study in New Zealand while gaining world-class education and, in some cases, the ability to work part-time. Explore your options and get expert advice on applying for the right student visa for your educational journey.
The International Fee Paying Student Visa allows international students to live and study in New Zealand for the duration of their course. Whether you're a full-fee paying student, on an exchange program, or studying multiple courses with one visa, this visa offers flexibility to pursue education in New Zealand.
The length of stay is tied to the duration of your study program, allowing you to stay in New Zealand while completing your course.
You must have an offer from a New Zealand educational institution, demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses, and meet health and character requirements.
While on a Student Visa, you can study full-time and, in most cases, work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. You may also be able to bring family members on visitor or work visas.
A Student Visa does not directly lead to residency, but certain qualifications may make you eligible for Post-Study Work Visas that can eventually lead to permanent residency in New Zealand.
Step 1:
Secure an offer to study from a New Zealand educational institution.
Step 2:
Collect the necessary documents, including proof of funds, your genuine intent to study, health, and character requirements.
Step 3:
Submit your visa application online, attaching all required documents.
Step 4:
Immigration New Zealand reviews your application and may request additional information.
Step 5:
Upon approval, you can live and study in New Zealand for the duration of your course.
Step 6:
Step 7:
Step 8:
Learn everything you need to know about applying for a New Zealand Student Visa in our upcoming webinar. This session covers key steps, eligibility criteria, and insights into the benefits of studying in New Zealand. Whether you're applying for a full-fee paying visa, exchange visa, or pathway visa, our experts will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you have the information needed to successfully submit your visa application.
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 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.
Student Visas get declined for various reasons: funds, genuine study intention, bona fide, character, health concerns etc. If you'd like to re-apply, meeting with an immigration specialist to work through the rejection reasons is a great idea.
Depending on the course you study, you may be eligible for work rights allowing part-time work during your semester and full-time work over semester breaks and the Christmas holiday season.
There is an ability for some students to have family join them but ultimately it depends on the level of course that you are studying and whether it meets the requirements to permit support of family members. You should take professional advice on this point.
Yes but it still necessitates a job offer so the choice of course and the consequential work rights at the end of your course are crucial factors in determining what course you should enroll in.
In very general terms: enrolment in a course; funds for your tuition and living expenses; a clear and detailed statement of purpose; and an ability to prove that you are a genuine student.
Generally these are tied to the length of course you are enrolled in. The duration of your visa depends on the courses you're studying.
You need to apply for permission to change course or the institution we were studying.
