New Zealand is one of the top destinations for international students who want to study at a tertiary level.
It offers quality education, a safe environment, a welcoming culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
For those considering applying for a New Zealand student visa, this guide summarises the process
from start to finish, giving valuable insight into what to consider when looking at New Zealand as a potential destination.
Step 1: Choose an education agent
This is a vital step to ensure your admission and visa process is stress-free and smooth.
AJV Global assists students from all over the world, with the majority being Indian citizens.
As per the data published by Immigration New Zealand in February 2025, for education agents’ performance for 2024. While the total approval rate for the Indian market sits at 50%, for AJV Global it was 65-70%.
Step 2: Choosing your course and institution/university
Before you can apply for a student visa, you must receive an Offer of Place from an education provider approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
But what is more important than having an offer is to make the right course and institute choice. You can choose from thousands of options available at a University, an Institute of technology, or a Private Training establishment. The decision of what and where to study will depend on your end goal of studying in New Zealand, your budget, and your academic/work profile. We keep it simple by informing our clients that it is not important what the course title but what learning you get out of the course and the purpose of your study.
To know which is the right education provider, check out this blog: https://ajvglobal.com/what-is-the-right-choice-for-you/
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
When applying for your New Zealand Student Visa, you’ll need to provide several key documents. The list below is not exhaustive:
- Offer of Place from a recognised institution
- Proof of Funds: Evidence you can support yourself financially (at least NZD 20,000 per year) + Funds for tuition fees (please note INZ is very specific on what kind of funds are acceptable)
- Valid Passport
- English Language Test Score
- Medical and Chest X-ray Certificates
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Other supporting documents, including academic certificates & other documents to prove bona fides
Step 4: Apply Online
The application is submitted online through the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
The education agent representing you will apply using their login once all your documents are ready and satisfactory.
Note: If you are applying from outside New Zealand, you will not be required to pay the tuition fee until you receive an Approval-in-principle (AIP) letter.
However, if you are in NZ when submitting a student visa, the tuition fee needs to be paid, and the receipt should be submitted with the application.
Visa processing times can vary, but most are processed within 4-12 weeks. The processing can include verification of documents and/or interviews with an Immigration Officer.
Tip: The Application should be submitted at least three months before your course starts to avoid delays.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
Once the application is approved, an e-visa will be emailed and will include the visa conditions – validity date of visa, permission to work part-time, etc.
Step 6: Travel and Arrive in New Zealand
You can now make travel arrangements. AJV Global students are invited to attend an online session with the team, which includes our staff based in New Zealand, who will familiarize you with what you can expect in New Zealand. The session is informative and talks about various topics, including renting a house, buying a car, getting a driving license, etc.
Key Points to Remember
- You must be enrolled in full-time study to qualify.
- Your student visa may allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
- You must meet attendance and academic performance requirements to retain your visa.
- If your course is longer than your visa validity, you’ll need to renew your visa before it expires.
- Your course duration must be a minimum of 30 weeks to qualify for the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) for eligible courses.
Embarking on a study journey to New Zealand is exciting. With careful preparation and timely application, your dream of studying in New Zealand can soon become a reality.
If you wish to get on this rollercoaster of a journey, get in touch with us soon!
