What are the funds required for a New Zealand student visa?

Under official Immigration New Zealand regulations, you must demonstrate access to at least NZD 20,000 for each year of study (or NZD 1,666 per month for courses under 1 year) for living costs, in addition to paid first-year tuition.

How many hours can international students work in New Zealand?

Students on a Fee Paying Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official scheduled holidays and Christmas breaks.

How long is the New Zealand Post Study Work Visa?

The Post Study Work Visa lasts 1 to 3 years depending on the level of qualification completed in New Zealand (3 years for Bachelor degree Level 7+, Master, or PhD degrees).

How does New Zealand’s 6-point Skilled Migrant Category work?

Under the SMC system, you must claim 6 points from either NZ occupational registration (3-6 pts), recognized qualifications (Bachelor=3, Master=5, PhD=6), or high income, combined with skilled work in New Zealand and a permanent job offer paying median wage or higher.

Home New Zealand HubNew Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa

New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa Requirements & Roadmap

Country: New Zealand•Consular Ledger Review: September 2026

Verified Government Portal

For official submission and legal case filing: Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

Visit Official Agency

Consular Visa Fee$750 USD

Average Processing Window5 Wks (4 to 6 weeks)

Approval Rate Index82%

Eligibility Requirements

Offer of Place from an NZQA-accredited educational institution, proof of funds of at least NZD 20,000 per year (or NZD 1,666/month for courses under 1 year), medical and chest X-ray clearances, valid health insurance.

Documents Checklist Drawer

Offer of Place from an NZQA-accredited education provider

Proof of tuition fee payment receipt or evidence of funding

Proof of funds: NZD 20,000 per year of study for living costs + return flight funds

Medical and Chest X-ray certificates from an approved panel physician

Comprehensive medical and travel insurance policy

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Step-by-Step Filing Roadmap

Receive Offer of Place and pay course tuition fees.

Gather bank statements showing at least NZD 20,000 held for 6 months.

Complete medical exam and chest X-ray with an approved panel physician.

Submit online visa application via Immigration New Zealand (INZ) Immigration Online.

Pay the official visa fee of NZD 750.

Receive eVisa with student work rights (20 hours/week during semester).

Core Rejection Reasons

•Unexplained recent lump sum deposits in bank accounts without clear source of funds.
•Course selection not matching previous academic background.
•Failing health or character requirements.

Important Informational Notice

GlobalVisaAtlas is an independent informational guide. We do not represent applicants before sovereign immigration tribunals. Requirements and processing times change; verify current criteria directly on the official New Zealand immigration portal before lodging your application.

Guide Navigation

1. Fees and Processing Times2. Eligibility Benchmarks3. Necessary Checklist files4. Roadmap Steps5. Refusal Prevention

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