Bringing Your Children to School in New Zealand
If you’re studying in New Zealand on a student visa, your children can join you and attend school. The Dependent Child Student Visa allows children of student visa holders to enrol in New Zealand primary, intermediate, or secondary schools as domestic students.
01. Who Is This Visa For?
This visa is specifically for children whose parent holds a valid New Zealand student visa. Your child may
qualify if:
- They are under 19 years of age
- You (the parent) are studying at a New Zealand institution
- Your child will be financially dependent on you during your studies
- You can demonstrate sufficient funds to support your family
Special Eligibility for Fee-Free Schooling
Your child may access free public schooling (as a domestic student) if you are:
- A PhD or postgraduate research student at a New Zealand university
- Part of an approved student exchange programme
- Receiving a scholarship from an approved New Zealand aid programme
02. Key Benefits
- Education Access: Your child can attend any New Zealand state school as a domestic student, with access to the same quality education as New Zealand residents.
- Aligned Duration: The visa length matches your student visa, so your family stays together throughout your studies.
- Work Rights for Older Students: Children in Years 12-13 can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during school holidays.
03. What You’ll Need to Apply
- Your child’s birth certificate (showing relationship to you)
- Proof of your valid New Zealand student visa
- Evidence of school enrolment or acceptance in New Zealand
- Financial documents showing you can support your child
- Medical certificates (if required)
- Police certificates (for children 17 and older)
04. Processing Time
Immigration New Zealand typically processes applications within 20-73 days, depending on the completeness of your application and any additional checks required.
05. Planning Your Family’s Study Journey
Many families find that studying in New Zealand offers their children excellent educational opportunities.
From world-class schools to a safe, outdoor lifestyle, your children can thrive while you complete your qualifications.
Ready to explore your options? Our licensed advisers can help you understand how to include your children in your New Zealand study plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dependent Child Student Visa in New Zealand?
Eligibility depends on your visa type and meeting specific income or scholarship requirements. Our licensed advisers can assess whether your children qualify and guide you through the application process.
What is the processing time for a Dependent Child Student Visa?
Submitting a complete, accurate application from the start reduces the risk of delays. Our advisers thoroughly review your documentation before submission to ensure everything meets Immigration New Zealand's requirements.
Who is eligible for a Dependent Child Student Visa?
Eligibility varies significantly by visa type; some work visas require minimum earnings of NZD $43,322 to $55,844 per year, while student visa holders typically need to be PhD students or in approved exchange programmes. Book a consultation to find out if your children qualify based on your specific visa.
What documents are required for a Dependent Child Student Visa?
You may also need to provide passport photos, medical certificates, and police certificates depending on your child's age and circumstances. Our advisers ensure your documentation is complete and properly formatted before submission, reducing the risk of delays or requests for additional information.
Can dependent children study as domestic students in New Zealand?
Getting this visa right is essential to access these benefits. Our licensed advisers guide families through the application requirements to ensure your children can attend school without paying international student fees.
