Student Visa

Immigration NZ issues visas for overseas people wanting to travel or stay in New Zealand. Every international student must have a valid visa before coming to New Zealand to study.

Full details of visa requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through Immigration NZ, and can be viewed on their website.

You should apply for a visa as soon as you have been accepted for a course of study. Contact Immigration NZ for details and documents.

A student visa is required for a course of longer than 12 weeks duration. If you are studying a 10 week English course, you may enter New Zealand on a visitor's visa. Any other course will require you to obtain a student visa before you leave home, or a student visa once you are in New Zealand.

When you arrive at the airport in New Zealand, your passport will be stamped with a student visa, providing everything is in order. While in New Zealand you must keep this visa valid. If your visa expires, you could be asked to leave the country. You must not start a course other than that stated on your visa without the permission of your institution and Immigration NZ. Advise Immigration NZ if you change your address or course of study, or if there is any other change in your circumstances.

Visas are usually issued for the length of time that your fees are paid for.