FAQ
Common questions.
What do I need for the New Zealand student visa?
The official page asks for: offer of place from an approved education provider, proof tuition fees are paid, medical and travel insurance, onward ticket or money for one and chest X-ray or police certificate if required, as well as the money to live on.
How much money do I need for the New Zealand student visa?
NZD 20,000 a year for tertiary, English language or other non-compulsory study, or NZD 1,667 a month if shorter than 1 year. School students need NZD 17,000 a year. A sponsor can cover this instead.
Do I need to pay tuition before I apply?
Show you have paid the tuition fees for 1 course or 1 year of study, whichever is shorter.
Can I work while I study in New Zealand?
Up to 25 hours a week while studying, and full time in holidays depending on your visa conditions. PhD and research master's students have no limit.
Can I stay in New Zealand after I graduate?
Stay and work for up to 3 years depending on what you studied; you can only have it once and need at least NZD 5,000.
Can I get a New Zealand student visa for a language course?
Yes.
How long can I stay on the New Zealand student visa?
Normally issued for the study you have paid for, up to a maximum of 4 years, and not past your passport expiry. You can apply for another student visa; you must show your study progress and attendance.
How much does the New Zealand student visa cost?
From NZD 850.
Who can apply for the New Zealand student visa?
Open to citizens of any other country. For students who pay international tuition fees themselves or with help from family, a loan or a partial scholarship, with an offer of place from an approved education provider.
Can I bring my family?
You cannot include family in your application, but your partner and children can apply for their own visas; work or student visas for them depend on your level of study.
How do I apply?
Apply online, at least 3 months before you plan to travel. 80% of applications are decided within 7 weeks.
Sources
- New Zealand: Fee Paying Student Visa (immigration.govt.nz)
- New Zealand: Fee Paying Student Visa (immigration.govt.nz)
- New Zealand: Working on a student visa (immigration.govt.nz)
- New Zealand: Bringing family on a student visa (immigration.govt.nz)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.