Fee Paying Student Visa
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 5-6 weeks (peak season may be longer)
- Fee
- NZD 750 + NZD 100 IVL
- Validity
- Duration of study programme (up to 4 years)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For international students enrolled in full-time study at a New Zealand education provider. From 18 August 2025, applications can only be submitted online. Paper-based applications are no longer accepted. Students may work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Apply at least 3 months before travel during peak season (October-March).
Eligibility
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Nationality
Open to all nationalities. Australian citizens and permanent residents do not need a student visa.
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Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds: NZD 20,000 per year for living costs plus full tuition fees.
Minimum funds: NZD 20,000 per year
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Health
Must meet acceptable standard of health. Medical examination and chest X-ray may be required.
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Criminal record
Must be of good character. Police certificates required from countries lived in for 5+ years since age 17.
Documents you need
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Passport
Validity months: 3
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Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm
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Bank statement
Months required: 3
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Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 20,000 per year
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Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: No; Must show program dates: No
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Police clearance
Validity months: 6
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 850 total
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Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.
Must be current: No; Must be original: No
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain offer of place from NZ education provider, arrange funds evidence, get police certificates and medical examinations if required.
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Online application
Create account on Immigration New Zealand online portal and complete the Fee Paying Student Visa application.
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Document submission
Upload all supporting documents including offer of place, financial evidence, insurance, police and medical certificates.
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Fee payment
Pay application fee (NZD 750) and International Visitor Levy (NZD 100) online.
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Processing wait
Wait 5-6 weeks for processing. Peak season (October-March) may take longer. Apply at least 3 months before travel.
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Visa collection
If approved, visa is linked electronically to your passport.