Study in New Zealand: Student Visas & Permits

In most cases, if you are studying for longer than three months, you will need a student visa in New Zealand. For shorter stays, you might be able to stay with only a tourist visa. As is the case with all countries wherever you go, the procedure for issuing student visas and other documents takes several steps. Therefore, the basic rule applies: start well ahead of time.

In order to be eligible for a student visa, you must have a confirmation letter on having been accepted to an NZQA-accredited course and on having paid the necessary fees. This documentation must include:

• The name of the course and the minimum time required for completing it
• Proof that the course and course provider meet New Zealand’s requirements for international students
• Proof that you have paid for the course in full, or if the course is longer than one year, the first annual fee
• Whether you have to pay course fees and whether the rate of fees is at the lower domestic rate or the higher international rate
• Whether you are studying full-time or part-time

The institution application process itself may take several months if you have to have your existing qualifications assessed. In addition to your transcripts, you will need to produce a passport valid at least three months past your leaving date, as well as proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and to pay future tuition fees throughout your study.

Once you have all of your documentation ready, you can submit your application to the nearest New Zealand embassy or consulate. For some nationalities and circumstances, special regulations apply, so make sure to check with the New Zealand migration authorities before submitting your application.

Once you have your permit there are certain conditions you must meet during your stay:

• You must enroll and attend the educational institution noted in your permit. It is possible to change the course or institution in your permit.
• You must show that you are passing your course
• Only undertake work allowed through your student permit
• Obey New Zealand laws
• Only stay in New Zealand for the time allowed by your permit.