New Zealand Student Visa Guide 2026
Everything you need to know about the Fee Paying Student Visa and Post Study Work Visa — requirements, process, fees, and expert tips for a successful application.
New Zealand Visas for International Students
Fee Paying Student Visa
The main visa for full-time international students paying tuition at a New Zealand institution
Key eligibility
- Offer of place from an approved education provider
- NZ$20,000/year for living costs (NZ$1,667/month if under 1 year)
- Evidence of tuition payment or funds to cover it
- Approved medical and travel insurance for your full stay
- Genuine intention to study (and meet health & character checks)
Post Study Work Visa
Open work visa for eligible graduates — no employer sponsorship needed for degree-level qualifications
Key eligibility
- Degree-level qualification (bachelor's, honours, master's, or PhD) after at least 30 weeks of full-time study in NZ
- Non-degree qualifications only if on the eligible list — work must relate to your study
- Apply within 3 months of your student visa expiring (6 months for PhD graduates)
- At least NZ$5,000 in funds for your stay
Figures shown are the standard amounts published by Immigration New Zealand as of 2025-26. The exact fee depends on your nationality and where you apply from — always confirm the current amount on immigration.govt.nz before you apply. Since 3 November 2025, eligible student visa holders can work up to 25 hours a week during the semester.
Student Visa Application Process
Get Your Offer of Place
Apply to your chosen New Zealand university or institution and receive a formal Offer of Place. It must come from an education provider approved to enrol international students.
Arrange Funds & Insurance
Organize evidence of NZ$20,000 per year for living costs plus your tuition payment, and buy approved medical and travel insurance covering your full stay in New Zealand.
Gather Documents
Collect your passport, academic transcripts, English test results, financial evidence, and any medical certificates (such as a chest X-ray, if requested for longer stays).
Apply Online
Submit your application through the Immigration New Zealand website and pay the visa fee (from NZ$850). Most Indian students apply fully online — no visa centre visit is needed unless requested.
Respond to Any Requests
Immigration New Zealand may ask for additional documents, medicals, or an interview. Responding quickly keeps your application moving.
Receive Your Visa & Fly
80% of Fee Paying Student Visa applications are decided within 8 weeks (longer during the October-March peak). Once approved, book your flights and attend your pre-departure briefing.
Required Documents
Offer of Place
From an approved New Zealand education provider
Valid Passport
Valid for the duration of your intended stay
Financial Evidence
NZ$20,000/year living funds plus tuition — bank statements, education loan, or approved funds transfer
English Test Scores
IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL as required by your university
Health & Travel Insurance
Approved policy covering your full stay
Academic Documents
Transcripts and certificates supporting your offer
Medical Certificates
Chest X-ray/medicals — requested for longer stays
Statement of Purpose
Strongly recommended to show genuine study intent
Visa Costs Breakdown
As of 2025-26. New Zealand has no separate health surcharge — approved insurance is required instead. Check current fees on immigration.govt.nz.
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