Student Visa

The New Zealand Student Visa allows international students to study full-time at an approved educational institution in New Zealand. This visa enables you to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational studies in one of the world’s most scenic and welcoming countries. With a New Zealand Student Visa, you can work part-time during your studies and potentially stay in New Zealand after graduation to gain valuable work experience.

Key Features of the New Zealand Student Visa

  • Full-Time Study: The visa allows you to study full-time at a registered institution in New Zealand.
  • Work While Studying: You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
  • Post-Study Work Opportunities: After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing you to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years.
  • Family Inclusion: You may be able to bring your partner and dependent children to New Zealand, depending on your course and study level.

Eligibility Requirements for the New Zealand Student Visa

To apply for a New Zealand Student Visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:

  1. Acceptance by an Approved Institution

You must have an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider. The institution must be registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).

  1. Proof of Financial Support

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses during your stay in New Zealand. This can include:

  • Living expenses: You must have at least NZD 20,000 per year to cover living costs, or NZD 1,667 per month for shorter courses.
  • Tuition fees: Proof that you can pay your full tuition fees for the first year of study.
  1. Valid Health and Travel Insurance

You must have valid health and travel insurance for the duration of your stay in New Zealand.

  1. Good Health and Character

You may need to provide a medical certificate to show that you meet the health requirements. You must also provide a police clearance certificate from your home country to prove good character if you are staying for more than 24 months.

  1. English Language Proficiency

You may need to provide proof of your English language proficiency (such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores) depending on the level and type of your course.

Required Documents for the New Zealand Student Visa

When applying for a New Zealand Student Visa, you must submit the following documents:

  1. Valid Passport:
    • Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you plan to leave New Zealand.
  2. Offer of Place:
    • A letter from your approved educational institution confirming your acceptance into a full-time study program.
  3. Proof of Financial Support:
    • Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship letters showing you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
  4. Health and Travel Insurance:
    • Proof of comprehensive health and travel insurance for the duration of your studies.
  5. Medical Certificate (if applicable):
    • A medical certificate showing you meet New Zealand’s health requirements if you are staying for more than 6 months.
  6. Police Certificate (if applicable):
    • A police clearance certificate from your home country showing you meet the character requirements if your stay exceeds 24 months.
  7. English Language Proficiency:
    • Results from an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) if required by your course or institution.
  8. Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt:
    • Proof of payment for the visa application fee.

Application Process for the New Zealand Student Visa

The application process for a New Zealand Student Visa involves several steps:

  1. Receive an Offer of Place

Apply to a registered New Zealand educational institution and receive an offer of place. The institution will provide a letter confirming your enrollment in a full-time course.

  1. Submit Your Online Application

Submit your Student Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand. Complete the visa application form and upload all required documents, including your passport, offer of place, proof of financial means, and health insurance.

  1. Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the visa application fee, which is typically NZD 530 (for most countries). The exact fee may vary depending on your country of residence.

  1. Provide Biometrics (if required)

If requested, you may need to visit a visa application center to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of the application process.

  1. Wait for Visa Decision

Visa processing times vary but typically take between 25 to 40 days. You will receive a notification once your visa application is approved.

New Zealand Student Visa Fees

The fees associated with the New Zealand Student Visa include:

  • Visa Application Fee: NZD 530 for most applicants.
  • Medical Examination Fees: Costs vary depending on your country and provider.
  • Police Certificate Fees: Costs vary depending on your country and provider.

Working on a New Zealand Student Visa

As a holder of a New Zealand Student Visa, you are allowed to work part-time during your studies:

  • During term time: Up to 20 hours per week.
  • During holidays: Full-time, provided the holiday period is longer than 2 weeks.

Post-study, you may also be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on your qualification.

How We Can Help

At A Square Migration Services, we offer comprehensive support for your New Zealand Student Visa application. Our services include:

  • Eligibility Assessment: We assess your academic background, finances, and offer of admission to ensure you meet the visa requirements.
  • Document Preparation: We help you gather and prepare all necessary documents, including your offer of place, proof of funds, and insurance.
  • Application Submission: We assist in submitting your visa application accurately and on time to avoid delays or rejections.
  • Ongoing Support: We provide guidance throughout the process, including any additional steps like biometric appointments or visa interviews.

Study in New Zealand with a Student Visa

New Zealand offers an ideal environment for international students, with world-class education, breathtaking landscapes, and a welcoming culture. At A Square Migration Services, we are here to help you navigate the visa process and achieve your academic and career goals in New Zealand.

Contact us today to start your New Zealand Student Visa application and begin your journey to study in one of the world’s top study destinations!