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Article Student Visas in New Zealand

Are you considering study abroad in New Zealand? If so, it's important to understand the visa options available to you. In this blog, we'll explore the different visa options available to international students, the requirements for obtaining a student visa, bringing your family with you, and post-study work visas.

Visa Options for Studying in New Zealand

There are several types of visas available for international students who wish to study in New Zealand. These include:

  1. Student visa: If you plan to study in New Zealand for more than three months, you will need a student visa. Student visa conditions will allow a student to work upto 20 hours during term time.
  2. Visitor visa (visa-required countries): If you're studying a short course for up to three months, you can apply for a visitor visa if you're from a visa-required country.
  3. Visa-waiver countries: If you're from a visa-waiver country, you can study a short course for up to three months without a visa.
  4. Working holiday visa: If you're planning to study a short course for up to six months, you can apply for a working holiday visa.
  5. Pathway visa: If you're planning to study up to three pre-approved programs, you can apply for a pathway visa.

New Zealand Traveller Declaration

It's worth noting that as of October 20, 2022, New Zealand's COVID-19 entry requirements were removed, and travellers are no longer required to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration to enter the country.

Student Visa Requirements

To obtain a New Zealand student visa, you'll need to provide several documents with your application, including:

  1. An offer of place from an approved education provider.
  2. Evidence that you've paid your tuition fees.
  3. A copy of the identity pages in your passport.
  4. Proof of funds to cover your living expenses (NZ$20,000 per year, or NZ$17,000 for school years 1-13) and proof of where this money has come from.
  5. A copy of your air ticket home, or proof that you have enough money to buy one.
  6. Your visa application fee.
  7. You may need to provide a medical certificate or chest x-ray, or a police certificate.

Visit Immigration New Zealand's website for more information on the student visa application process, including a checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a successful application.

Visas to Bring Your Family to New Zealand with You

If you're considering bringing your family with you while you study in New Zealand, there are several visa options available. These include:

  1. Partner of a student work visa.
  2. Partner of an NZ scholarship student work visa.
  3. Partner of a student visitor visa.
  4. Child of a student visitor visa.
  5. Dependent child student visa.
  6. Guardian of a student visitor visa.

Visit the New Zealand Immigration website to explore the full list of visas that could allow your family to join you.

Post-Study Work Visas

If you're interested in staying in New Zealand after completing your studies to gain practical work experience, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa. The length of the visa will depend on the level of your study qualification and what you study, but it could allow you to work in New Zealand for up to three years after you graduate.

In conclusion, studying in New Zealand is an exciting opportunity for international students. By understanding the visa options available, you can prepare for a smooth transition to studying abroad. Find out if you’re eligible to study in New Zealand and book a free consult with our expert international study agents!

Updated 13 December 2023