Student Visa Information
Student visas may have strict conditions that are set out on the visa document itself. Typically the conditions restrict the student to a particular course of study at an institution and can sometimes include work rights for part-time employment. These student visa conditions must be complied with. If you want any changes, take advice.
International Students
Fee-paying International Students are welcome in New Zealand. There are well-developed programmes and services designed to ensure the best possible experience for students of all ages while attending an approved education provider. The New Zealand government is focused on international students enrolling in high-quality tertiary education.
The student visa applicant must:
- Hold a formal offer of a place from an approved education provider, such as a State Institution or “Private Training Establishment” (PTE) (See special note, below).
- Pay full international fees.
- Have sufficient funds for support or be sponsored.
- Hold comprehensive Health Insurance.
- Satisfy Immigration New Zealand (INZ) that they are a genuine student (not using a student visa application for some other purpose).
- Be of good health and character.
Special note #1:
The only categories of educational providers who qualify to offer places to international students are those who have signed up to the "Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021" (The Code). These include registered schools, Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, Wānanga and Private Training Establishments (PTEs) that are registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authoity (NZQA) in Category 1, 2 or 3 (category 4 is excluded).
Special note #2:
Some international students can obtain the right to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during scheduled vacations. This is a great way to gain local work experience, practice English and earn some pocket money, but not every course qualifies you for work rights. Take expert student visa advice to make sure whether this concession applies to you.
Useful Student Visa Information
The Malcolm Pacific Immigration team of advisers and experts take away the stress and worry of navigating the complex world of New Zealand Student visas, policies, and immigration.
Helpful Student Visa Links
School Children
Children from overseas may be educated in New Zealand from Primary, through Intermediate to Secondary levels, in either State-owned or Privately owned schools, subject to payment of fees and certain conditions that are in place to protect students and ensure a satisfactory education experience.
Schools that wish to offer places to overseas students must be approved to ensure quality pastoral care arrangements are in place to care for all of the child’s needs, both scholastic and residential.
Guardian Visa
A parent or legal guardian can apply for a visa to accompany their children aged 17 years or younger to New Zealand and, in limited circumstances, may even gain permission to work or study while the child is at school.
Dependent Child Student Visa
A Dependent Child Student Visa allows dependent children to join their parent in New Zealand in limited circumstances. This visa allows children to study at a primary, intermediate or secondary school. A dependent child can be treated as a domestic student, meaning that you are not required to pay international tuition fees for them to attend a public school. This concession does not apply to tertiary study (international fees normally apply). To apply for a Dependent Child Student Visa, parents must hold an appropriate work or student visa.
English Language Schools
New Zealand is considered an excellent place to learn English and there are many institutions that offer courses. Including places where teaching English is combined with other courses and activities; there are over 600 choices! These range from facilities for younger people who want to combine a wonderful overseas experience with an improvement to their English, through to University-based courses designed to help serious students master English at a graduate level. Make sure your choice matches your objectives.
Tertiary Studies
New Zealand has many options for serious tertiary study. In recent years Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) have moved to ensure a quality experience for all students.
Pathway Student Visa
A Pathway Student Visa allows holders to study up to three consecutive courses in New Zealand, on a single student visa. You must have a Pathway Student Visa offer of place from an approved education provider and the required funds to pay your tuition fees.
Domestic Students
School-age children of persons in New Zealand on work visas can attend Primary, Intermediate or Secondary school as “Domestic Students”. They need to apply for a Student Visa but do not need to pay International Student Fees. This concession does NOT apply to Tertiary studies. At tertiary level, full international student fees will normally apply. Something to think carefully about when you are planning a move to New Zealand that includes older children.
The same courtesy also applies to certain persons in New Zealand as members of Diplomatic missions, or persons on Armed Service transfers and may also apply to certain post-graduate students.
Get Personal Student Visa Advice
The content on this page is for information only. If you would like personal immigration advice regarding attaining a New Zealand student visa, contact one of our Licensed Immigration Advisers today. The team at Malcolm Pacific Immigration can also help you with any resident visa or visitor visa enquiries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my visitor visa when I am in NZ?
Yes.
If you want to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa before your current one expires. It is recommended you lodge your application at least one month prior to your visa expiry date. To avoid problems ask one of our advisers to manage this application for you.
How long can I stay in New Zealand?
In most cases a person visiting New Zealand can apply to stay for up to a maximum 9 months from the first date of arrival. Then you are expected to leave and not apply to re-enter New Zealand within the next 9 months. There are of course exceptions that would allow someone to stay longer or less than 9 months. Everyone’s situation is unique, and it also depends on the type of visitor visa you hold. Take advice.
How much is the application fee for a New Zealand visitor visa?
The government visitor visa application fee starts at NZD 441 (which is subject to change without notice) for one person. The fee increases with each person added to the application as each person pays the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. In certain cases there are fee waivers depending on the nationality of the passport held.
Check out what application fee you would need to pay
What is the difference between a visitor visa and a tourist visa?
In New Zealand, there is no separate tourist visa. A visitor visa covers tourism, visiting family and friends, and in limited circumstances short-term business activities. A visitor visa allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to 9 months within an 18-month period, provided you meet the normal entry requirements. Malcolm Pacific Immigration can help you determine if a visitor visa is the right option for your travel plans and guide you through the application process.
Does my passport have to be valid for the entire time I am in New Zealand?
Yes. Normally a passport needs to be valid for 3 months beyond your date of departure. In some cases that is reduced to one month if your government has a representative in New Zealand who can issue or renew passports. Our advice is to make sure there is plenty of time left on your passport before you travel. If it is going to expire over the time you expect to be away renew it now. It is usually much easier, cheaper and faster to renew or replace your passport in your home country then trying to do it somewhere else.
How could Malcolm Pacific Immigration help with my visitor visa application?
Malcolm Pacific Immigration helps with your New Zealand visitor visa by making sure your application is complete, accurate, and meets all Immigration New Zealand requirements. Our advisers assess your eligibility, help you gather the right documents, and prepare a strong application to reduce delays or refusals. If needed, we can also assist with explanations for previous visa declines and guide you through any extra steps Immigration New Zealand may require. Contact our team for a free eligibility assessment.
