New Zealand is a preferred country among international students because it offers highly ranked educational programmes and a safe, welcoming environment. To study there, students must first obtain a New Zealand student visa.
This guide introduces all the essential knowledge needed to obtain a study visa NZ, including the various visa options, application protocols, eligibility criteria and document specifications.
Types of student visas for New Zealand
These are the most common New Zealand study visa:
- Fee-paying student visa: This visa is for international students enrolled in full-time courses. It is valid for up to four years.
- Pathway student visa: This visa enables international students to study up to three consecutive courses on a single visa for up to five years.
- Exchange student visa: This visa is for students who join official exchange programmes visiting New Zealand.
- Dependent child student visa: This visa allows students whose parents hold either work or student visas to pursue their education in New Zealand schools.
What is the eligibility criteria for New Zealand study visa?
The following are the key points to note before applying:
- You need to receive acceptance from a recognised institution in New Zealand.
- You will require sufficient funds to support your life in New Zealand, including living expenses worth about NZD 20,000 yearly and tuition fees.
- You must have a passport valid for three months beyond the expected duration of your stay in New Zealand.
- You must have evidence to show your plans to depart from New Zealand after completing the course.
- The application process requires students to show physical wellness and moral upstanding through health screenings and background checks.
All international students must commit to buying health and travel insurance for New Zealand before visa approval.
How to apply for New Zealand student visa?
New Zealand study visa applications follow a certain process, which includes these steps:
- Your first step must be to accept a full-time course at a New Zealand college or university to begin the application process.
- The necessary set of documents needs to be organised for your application.
- You should visit the Immigration New Zealand website to establish an account before beginning your application process.
- The application process requires submitting biometric information or extra medical examinations based on your home country.
- The decision-making process for your application will vary between two to six weeks, based on your institution.
Documents required for New Zealand student visa application
These are the documents requirement for New Zealand student visa:
- A valid passport
- A recent passport-size photo
- Your offer of a place letter
- Proof of tuition fee, payment, or scholarship
- Financial proof of living costs includes bank statements, support letters, etc.
- You must provide proof that you either have a return ticket or enough funds to buy one.
- Medical certificates (for stays over 6 months)
- Police clearance certification if you are above the age of 17 years.
- Official statement that you will buy appropriate insurance during your stay.
When to apply for student study visa for New Zealand?
Most applicants begin to apply for student visa New Zealand two to three months before their course begins. This allows enough time for visa processing and any additional steps required. If your course is starting soon, you may request early processing.
New Zealand student visa processing time
The New Zealand student visa application processing generally requires
- Two to four weeks for university students.
- Between three to five weeks for private training institute applicants.
- Three to seven weeks for technical and vocational (Te Pūkenga) students.
- School students may expect a visa processing time between one to three weeks.
What are the New Zealand study visa application fees?
The current NZ student visa fee is NZD 750. Your country of origin and visa application method determine the fees precisely; therefore, consult with Immigration New Zealand for accurate details.
Role of travel insurance for New Zealand student visa
Health and travel insurance are compulsory for all international students in New Zealand. While you don't need to submit the insurance documents at the time of application, you must show proof of commitment to purchase a policy. Not having valid insurance may lead to your visa being declined or cancelled.
FAQs
- Do New Zealand student visa holders have permission to work?
Visa holders can work 20 hours per week during their semester weeks and full-time during school holidays.
- Can my spouse or children accompany me to New Zealand?
Your spouse and children can accompany you to New Zealand, with your spouse eligible for a work visa and your children eligible for a dependent student visa or domestic student status. However, you must provide proof of relationship and sufficient financial support.
Students studying or beginning new courses can extend their visas, but they must submit their application before their current visa date ends.
Conclusion
With these necessary steps, the New Zealand student visa for Indian students becomes much easier. However, it is equally essential to consider travel insurance for New Zealand, as it is a mandatory requirement that ensures you are protected against unexpected medical costs and emergencies during your stay.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.