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Planning to study in New Zealand? Once you have found the right university and course, one of the most important steps is getting your New Zealand student visa.
For international students, the visa process involves more than simply completing an application form. You may need to provide an Offer of Place, evidence that you can pay your tuition fees and living expenses, and documents showing that you meet health and character requirements.
In fact, preparing early can make the process much easier.
In this guide, we explain the New Zealand student visa requirements, application process, costs, financial requirements, processing times and work rights to help you prepare for your studies.
New Zealand Student Visa: At a Glance
One of the main visas used by international students is the Fee Paying Student Visa, which allows eligible students to study full-time with an approved education provider.
| Factor | New Zealand Student Visa |
|---|---|
| Main visa | Fee Paying Student Visa |
| Study | Full-time study with an approved provider |
| Visa length | Up to 4 years, depending on your study |
| Visa cost | From NZD 850 |
| Living funds | Generally, NZD 20,000 per year for tertiary and other non-compulsory study |
| Work rights | Up to 25 hours per week for eligible students |
| Holiday work | Full-time work may be permitted during scheduled breaks |
| Application | Online through Immigration New Zealand |
Who Needs a New Zealand Student Visa?
If you are an international student planning to undertake longer-term study in New Zealand, you will generally need an appropriate student visa.
Specifically, the Fee Paying Student Visa is designed for international students studying full-time and paying the full cost of their programme.
Also, other student visas are available for specific situations, including the Pathway Student Visa, English Language Student Visa and visas for students supported by governments.
Before applying, check which visa matches your course and circumstances through Immigration New Zealand.
New Zealand Student Visa Requirements
Requirements depend on your circumstances and visa type, but Fee Paying Student Visa applicants generally need to demonstrate that they:
You may be asked for additional evidence depending on your circumstances, so always follow the document requirements provided for your application.
Offer of Place from a New Zealand Education Provider
Before your student visa can be granted, you need an Offer of Place from an approved education provider.
In particular, this document provides information about your programme, including your course and length of study.
If you are still deciding where to study, you can explore New Zealand study options with AUG Student Services and compare universities and courses before applying.
Therefore, when reviewing your offer, check that your personal details, course title, intake and study duration are correct.
Financial Requirements for a New Zealand Student Visa
You must show that you can support yourself financially while studying.
For tertiary, English-language and other non-compulsory study, Immigration New Zealand currently requires students to have NZD 20,000 for each year of study if studying for one year or longer. For courses shorter than one year, the requirement is generally NZD 1,667 per month.
In other words, these funds are for living expenses and are separate from tuition fees.
You also need to show that you can leave New Zealand at the end of your stay, either through a fully paid outward ticket or additional money to purchase one.
Documents You May Need
The exact checklist varies between applicants, but you should prepare your documents well before applying.
Common documents may include:
- Valid passport and identity documents
- Offer of Place
- Evidence of tuition fee payment or ability to pay
- Evidence of living funds
- Evidence of onward travel funds
- Medical and travel insurance
- Health documents, where required
- Character documents, where required
- Financial sponsorship or undertaking documents, if applicable
Make sure the information across your documents is consistent. Otherwise, differences in names, dates, finances or study information may require clarification during processing.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa
Once you have received your Offer of Place and prepared your supporting documents, you can begin your application.
Choose your preferred university and course and submit your university application. You can also contact AUG Student Services for assistance with exploring courses and preparing your study application.
Once accepted, carefully review your offer and complete any conditions required by the institution.
Make sure you can demonstrate sufficient funds for your tuition, living costs and outward travel.
Prepare the documents requested for your circumstances and make sure they are clear and complete.
Complete your student visa application through Immigration New Zealand and upload the required supporting documents.
Immigration New Zealand may contact you if further information is required. Avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements until you understand the status and conditions of your visa.
How Much Does a New Zealand Student Visa Cost?
The Fee-Paying Student Visa currently costs from NZD 850. The amount you pay may depend on your circumstances and how you apply.
Visa fees can change, so check the current fee on the official Immigration New Zealand website when you are ready to submit your application.
Finally, remember to include other expenses in your study-abroad budget, such as medical examinations if required, insurance, flights, tuition and accommodation.
New Zealand Student Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on your education provider, application volume and whether additional information is required.
Immigration New Zealand updates its student visa wait times weekly. At the time of writing, university student visa applications processed in the previous four weeks had an average wait time of about three weeks, with most completed within 5.5 weeks. However, other education-provider categories have different timeframes.
Working While Studying in New Zealand
One benefit of studying in New Zealand is that eligible international students may be able to work while completing their studies.
Depending on your course and visa conditions, you may be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during your studies. Some students can also work full-time during eligible scheduled study breaks.
The permitted student work limit increased from 20 to 25 hours per week for eligible visas granted from 3 November 2025.
However, work rights are not automatic for every student. Always check the conditions shown on your eVisa before starting employment.
Part-time employment can help you gain experience and earn additional money, but you should have sufficient funds to support your studies without relying entirely on employment.
Tips for a Smooth Student Visa Application
Start preparing your visa documents as early as possible. Do not wait until a few weeks before your course begins.
Before submitting your application, check that your documents are complete, your financial evidence is clear and your information matches your university documents.
Provide accurate and genuine information. Likewise, if Immigration New Zealand asks for additional evidence, respond within the timeframe provided.
Visa requirements can change, so always check official government information rather than relying solely on previous applicants’ experiences.
Start Planning Your Study Abroad Journey with AUG
Getting your New Zealand student visa is an important step towards beginning your studies overseas. Preparing your university application, finances and visa documents early can help make the process smoother.
AUG Student Services can help you explore New Zealand universities, find a suitable course and navigate the university application process at no cost to the student. From shortlisting your options to preparing your application, our counsellors can help take the hassle out of planning your studies overseas.
Contact AUG Student Services to find out more.
