Fee Paying Student Visa
New Zealand
Last updated: December 27, 2025
maximum 4 years
$490
3-5 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you study full-time at a New Zealand school, university, or training institute. You can work part-time during your studies and full-time during breaks. After you finish, you can stay and work for up to 3 years. The main benefits are clear work rights, the ability to bring family members, and a straightforward path to permanent residence if you want to stay longer.
Key Benefits
- Work 25 hours per week during school term, unlimited during breaks
- Bring spouse/partner who can also work
- Bring dependent children to attend NZ schools
- Clear path to permanent residence after finishing degree
- Stay 1-3 years after graduation with post-study work visa
- No restrictions on field of study
- Healthcare included when you work
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be accepted by a New Zealand school or university
- Must prove English ability - IELTS 6.0 or higher
- Must have $20,000 NZD per year in savings or from family
- No criminal record if staying longer than 2 years
- Must be healthy - no active tuberculosis
- Must be able to study full-time - at least 15 hours per week
- Age: no limit
- Must have valid passport recognized by New Zealand government
Financial Requirement
Must show $20,000 NZD per year ($11,600 USD) for living expenses via bank statements from last 6 months
Documents
- Valid passportMust be recognized by New Zealand government
- Acceptance letter from schoolProof you are enrolled
- Proof of paymentTuition fee receipt or scholarship letter
- Bank statementsLast 6 months showing $20,000+ NZD
- Health certificateChest X-ray if from high-TB country
- Police clearanceIf staying longer than 2 years
- English test resultsIELTS score 6.0+ or equivalent
- Health insurance proofMandatory coverage
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.