What does a student visa allow?

Having a New Zealand student visa allows a student from overseas to study in New Zealand for a set time at a specified institution as a full-time student.  In most cases we grant a one-year, renewable visa.

The main purpose of a student visa is to allow an international student to study full-time in New Zealand.  However, in some cases we may vary the conditions of a student visa to allow a student:

• to study part-time
• a limited opportunity to work while studying if the student’s course requires them to be here for more than one year. 

Who can get a student visa?

Most people can be considered for a visa to study in New Zealand, provided they meet all the requirements. But, to protect the interests of New Zealanders we don’t grant visas to people involved in certain activities. 

How do I get a student visa?

We have a clear application process for students to follow so they can come to New Zealand to study. They’ll have to show us they’ve paid the foreign student fees. And they’ll also need to pay a fee to apply for a student visa.  Go to the fees finder to see what students need to pay.

What do students from overseas need to do to apply?

Or want to find out more about our general student requirements?

Help students who want to know…  

• How long can students study?
• Can students work while they’re studying?
• Can someone change their visa if they want to study?
• Can a student become liable for deportation?
• Do distance learning students need a student visa to sit exams in New Zealand?
• Can students study part-time on a student visa?
• How do we arrange a student exchange? 
• What students need to do if they’re already here studying and their plans change?