Policy verified from immigration.govt.nz as of 2026-04-13
A New Zealand student visa allows international students to study full-time at an approved education provider in New Zealand. It can be granted for up to four years for a single course, and requires proof of financial capacity, an offer of place, and meeting health and character requirements.
Source: immigration.govt.nz — 2026-04-13
Who Can Apply
The fee-paying student visa is for international students who have been accepted into a full-time course at a New Zealand education provider approved by NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority). You can study a single course for up to 4 years on this visa.
Key Requirements
Fee-Paying Single Course
- Valid for up to 4 years
- Official offer of place from an accredited New Zealand institution
- Proof of financial capacity — minimum NZ$20,000 per year for living costs
- Tuition fees paid or evidence of ability to pay
- Valid passport for the duration of your course
- Meet health and character requirements
Essential Documentation
- Official offer of place letter from your education provider
- Bank statements or financial guarantor evidence showing NZ$20,000+ per year
- Medical and character clearances as required by INZ
- Valid passport with adequate remaining validity
- Medical and travel insurance coverage
Pathway Option
If you plan to study multiple courses in sequence, consider the Pathway Student Visa instead. It covers up to 3 courses across 5 years on a single visa — no need to reapply between courses.
After Your Studies
If you complete a qualifying course at Level 7 or above with at least 30 weeks of study, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa — open work rights in New Zealand (up to 3 years for Master's/Doctoral, or equal to your study duration for Level 7-8).
How ProVisas Helps
- Free eligibility assessment to confirm you qualify before you invest time and money
- Complete documentation preparation — we make sure nothing is missing or incorrect
- Direct liaison with Immigration New Zealand on your behalf
- Advice on work rights during study and post-study pathways to residence
Incomplete applications are the most common reason for student visa delays. A licensed adviser ensures your application is right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
A fee-paying student visa can be valid for up to 4 years, depending on the length of your course. You must maintain full-time enrolment throughout the visa period.
The Immigration New Zealand application fee varies. Check the current fee on immigration.govt.nz. ProVisas advisory fees are separate and disclosed upfront before you commit.
Most student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Your visa conditions will specify your exact work entitlement.
You need to demonstrate at least NZ$20,000 per year in available funds for living costs. This can be shown through bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial guarantor documentation.
If your application is declined, ProVisas can review the reasons and advise on your options — which may include reapplying with a stronger application, requesting reconsideration, or exploring alternative visa pathways.
Yes. All international students must have appropriate medical and travel insurance for the duration of their stay in New Zealand. Your education provider may offer an approved insurance scheme.
