Study in New Zealand

Studying in New Zealand

A Student Visa or Permit is required to study in New Zealand, at school or tertiary level, unless the student:

is taking a single course only, of less than three calendar months duration, which is approved or exempted by NZQA, then only a Visitor Visa is required
is a citizen of New Zealand or Australia
holds a New Zealand residence permit
is an Australian resident with a current Permanent Residence Visa or a current Resident Return Visa

Exchange students who have been offered a place in an approved exchange scheme may apply for a Student Visa for the duration of their exchange, provided they:

are a bona fide exchange participant
meet the health and character requirements
provide evidence that they have been accepted into an approved student exchange scheme (from the scheme organiser)
have onward travel arrangements for when their exchange scheme has finished

Requirements for a visa or permit to study in New Zealand:

The applicant must:

meet the New Zealand requirements for international students
have an offer of a place from a New Zealand education provider on a course which is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
be accompanied to New Zealand by a parent or legal guardian if enrolling in years 1 to 8 of a school, or a student aged 13 or under enrolled in a private training establishment.
meet health and character requirements and prove to us that their intent is genuine
provide evidence of adequate funds for living expenses for the duration of their stay
provide evidence that they will leave New Zealand at the end of the period of study
hold a passport that is valid for at least three months past the end of their intended stay

Note: if the student is a partner or child of a New Zealand resident and visa holder, their Study Permit conditions may depend on the immigration status of the partner or parent.

Solicitors appointed by Accurate Immigration are Regulated by the New Zealand Law Society.

The information on this page is intended to be general in nature and should not be construed as applying to the reader's individual set of circumstances. It does not constitute legal advice. Eligibility requirements and the application of laws vary on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, Immigration laws, regulations and policies are always subject to change at any time without advance notice.
© 2001 - 2007