Study Visas
If you’re planning to study here full time for more than three months you’ll need a student visa.
Student visa requirements include:
- an offer of place from an educational institution approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority
- a written guarantee from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand (if you’re under 18 years)
- an evidence of sufficient funds to live on while you are studying
- a return air ticket to your country, or evidence of sufficient funds to buy one.
- Get an internationally recognized education and have the time of your life!
- If you’re spending six months or more here in New Zealand you may need to be screened for tuberculosis.
- If you’re over 17 and intending to be in New Zealand for over two years, a police certificate will be required to show that you are of good character.
- If your course is three months or less, you don’t need a student visa: just a visitor visa.
- Save time and money by applying for your visa online.
You’ll need a student visa if you study in NZ for more than three months.
Working after study
If your long-term plan is to work here and become a New Zealand resident, then you’ll need to know about our requirements to work after study. It’s good to have these in mind when deciding what course to enroll in so you gain a qualification that’s needed and valued by New Zealand employers.
Visas for school children
Dependent children of temporary work visa holders also need a student visa. This entitles them to attend New Zealand primary and secondary schools as domestic students. To avoid delays it is strongly recommended that you apply for this visa from your home country. Without a student visa, they can only attend school for two weeks as a domestic student or for three months as a fee-paying international student.