New Zealand · study
Student Visa
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Visa for international students studying full-time at approved New Zealand education providers.
- Processing time
- Typically 4–8 weeks.
- Government fees
- NZD 375 (verify on INZ).
- Typical duration
- Duration of study programme plus a short buffer.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The NZ Student Visa allows international students to study full-time at an approved education provider. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during scheduled holidays. Graduates of eligible qualifications can transition to the Post-Study Work Visa for 1–3 years of open work rights.
Guidance by nationality
Specific information for applicants from these countries. Don’t see yours? The general eligibility criteria above apply to everyone.
Indian applicants
Indian students are the largest international student cohort in New Zealand. The study-to-PSWV-to-SMC pathway is the dom…
Chinese applicants
Chinese students are the second-largest international student group. NZ universities have strong recruitment networks in…
Filipino applicants
Filipino students in NZ concentrate in healthcare (nursing, aged care) and IT programmes. Nursing Council NZ registratio…
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Offer of place at an approved NZ education provider.
- ✓Evidence of tuition payment or financial guarantee.
- ✓Evidence of funds to support living costs (currently NZD 20,000 per year — verify on INZ).
- ✓Acceptable health and character.
Common blockers
- !Institution not on the approved provider list.
- !Insufficient funds for living costs.
Typical evidence
- ·Offer of place and evidence of tuition payment.
- ·Bank statements demonstrating funds.
- ·Medical and police certificates.
Application pathway
Accept an offer at an approved provider
Secure an unconditional offer and pay tuition (or provide a financial guarantee).
Apply for Student Visa online
Submit the application via the INZ online system.
Arrive and study
Work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
Transition to Post-Study Work Visa
On completing an eligible qualification, apply for the PSWV for 1–3 years of open work rights.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ApplyApplicantApply for a Student Visa ↗
Student submits the online visa application with offer, funds, identity, health, and character evidence.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) · verified
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Related routes
Post-Study Work Visa
Open work visa for international graduates of eligible New Zealand qualifications — 1 to 3 years depending on qualification level and location.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Employer-sponsored temporary work visa — New Zealand's main route for skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited employer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work while studying in New Zealand?+
Yes — up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled holidays. Your visa conditions will specify your work rights. Some courses (e.g. PhD students) have additional work allowances.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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