NEW ZEALAND STUDENT VISA

The Fee Paying Student Visa allows international students to study full-time in New Zealand at approved universities, polytechnics, schools, and private training establishments. This visa provides pathways for primary, secondary, and tertiary education, allowing eligible students to work part-time while building valuable global academic qualifications.

Student Visa Criteria & Requirements

To secure a Fee Paying Student Visa, international applicants must meet core statutory criteria set by Immigration New Zealand (INZ):

Offer of Place: Hold an unconditional Offer of Place from an NZQA-approved education provider in New Zealand.
Tuition Fee Payment: Provide proof of full tuition fee payment or evidence of an approved scholarship.
Genuine Student Intent: Demonstrate genuine intent to study, personal academic capability, and English language proficiency.
Health & Character: Satisfy standard INZ medical examination, chest X-ray, and police clearance requirements where applicable.
Medical & Travel Insurance: Hold comprehensive, approved medical and travel insurance for the full duration of your study period.
Work Conditions:Eligible tertiary students may work up to 25 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled holidays.

Financial Proof & Living Cost Thresholds

Applicants must demonstrate clear, verifiable access to sufficient funds for living expenses throughout their study program:

Tertiary & Language Programs: Show at least $20,000 NZD per year for living costs (or $1,667 NZD per month for courses under 12 months).
Compulsory Schooling (Years 1–13): Show at least $17,000 NZD per year(or $1,417 NZD per month).
Acceptable Proof:Bank statements showing 3+ months of unencumbered history, fixed deposits, education loans, or official financial sponsorship (INZ 1014).
Onward Travel: Evidence of holding a return ticket or sufficient additional funds to purchase outward travel.

Application Fees & Costs

Government and administrative costs for a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa application:

INZ Online Visa Fee: From approximately $375 to $850 NZD (varies by applicant location and international levies).
Additional Expenses:Medical exams, chest X-rays, police clearances, translation fees, and mandatory health insurance.

*Government fees are subject to change by INZ.

Estimated Processing Time

Processing durations depend heavily on application completeness and intake volumes:

Standard Processing: Typically processed within 4 to 8 weeks (25 to 40 working days).
Peak Intake Seasons: Processing can take up to 8 to 12 weeks during peak intake periods (October to February).

Submitting decision-ready financial records and verified tuition receipts minimizes processing delays.