STUDENT VISAS

Study in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a world-class education system with a multicultural environment, making it a top destination for international students. Whether you're pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate studies, or a vocational course, the New Zealand student visa allows you to study and gain valuable life experiences in this vibrant country.

Why Choose New Zealand for Study?

Globally Recognized Qualifications: Universities and institutions in New Zealand are known for their high academic standards and globally accepted qualifications.
Safe and Welcoming Environment: Experience a secure and inclusive culture, where international students feel at home.
Work Opportunities: Many student visas allow you to work part-time while studying, providing the opportunity to gain work experience and earn some income.
Post-Study Pathways: After completing your studies, there are pathways to extend your stay through post-study work visas or even a residency application.

Types of Student Visas

Fee-Paying Student Visa: This visa allows you to study full-time in an approved educational institution. You can work part-time during your course and apply for post-study work visas once you've completed your studies.
Exchange Student Visa: For students coming to New Zealand on an approved student exchange program, this visa allows you to study full-time and enjoy New Zealand’s unique academic environment.
Pathway Student Visa: This visa enables you to take up to three consecutive courses on a single visa, streamlining your study plans and reducing visa processing times.
Dependent Child Student Visa: Children of eligible work visa holders or PhD students can attend primary or secondary school as domestic students without paying international fees.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a New Zealand student visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Acceptance Letter: You must have an offer of place from an approved New Zealand educational provider.
Sufficient Funds: You need to show that you can cover tuition fees and living costs while you are in New Zealand.
Health and Character Requirements: You may need to undergo a health check and provide police clearances to meet health and character standards.
Genuine Intentions: Demonstrate that your primary purpose is to study and that you intend to leave New Zealand after your course, unless you're applying for a post-study visa.

Work While Studying

Most student visas allow you to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during holidays. This provides an excellent opportunity to gain work experience and manage your living expenses.

Post-Study Work Rights

After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows you to work in New Zealand for up to three years, depending on your qualification and the duration of your study.

What is a Partnership Visa?

A Partnership Visa allows you to live in New Zealand with your partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident. This visa can enable you to work and study in New Zealand while residing with your partner.
How long do I need to live with my partner to be eligible for a residence visa?

For a residence visa under the partnership category, you typically need to have been living together in a stable relationship for at least 12 months.
Can my partner or family join me if I’m on a temporary visa?

Yes, partners and dependent children of certain temporary visa holders (like work or student visas) may also be eligible to join you on specific partnership or family visas. The eligibility criteria depend on the visa type you hold.
Can I apply for a work visa if I have a Partnership Visa?

Yes, a Partnership Visa often allows you to work in New Zealand. However, the conditions of the visa may vary depending on your specific situation.
How long does it take to process a Partnership Visa?

Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of the case. Typically, it can take several months. It’s essential to submit complete documentation to avoid delays.
What is a Parent Resident Visa?

The Parent Resident Visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to live permanently in New Zealand. However, there are annual caps, and the visa is subject to a ballot system for selection.
How does the Parent Resident Visa ballot system work?

Selections for the Parent Resident Visa are made four times a year. To be included in a selection, your Expression of Interest (EOI) must be submitted by the last day of the month before the selection.
Can my children apply for a visa as part of my Partnership Visa?

Yes, dependent children can apply for a visa to join you in New Zealand if you hold a Partnership Visa. They may be eligible to attend school as domestic students without paying international fees.
What are the requirements for a Partnership Visa?

To qualify for a Partnership Visa, you must prove that you are in a genuine and stable relationship with your partner. You’ll need to provide evidence such as joint bank accounts, shared living arrangements, and proof of communication.
What is a Dependent Child Visa?

A Dependent Child Visa allows children aged 19 or under to live with their parents in New Zealand. They can attend school as domestic students and may need to meet health and character requirements.
Can I Bring My Partner and Children Over When Studying in New Zealand?

Yes, you can bring your partner and children to New Zealand while you are studying, but there are specific visa requirements and conditions to be aware of: Partner Visa Options: If you are studying an eligible level 7 or 8 qualification or any level 9 or 10 qualification, your partner can apply for a work visa. This allows them to work in New Zealand while you study. Children's Visa Options: Your dependent children can apply for a student visa, allowing them to study at primary or secondary schools in New Zealand as domestic students. Alternatively, they can apply for a visitor visa if they are not planning to study Not sure what to study? Let's talk!
What Are the Post-Study Work Opportunities?

New Zealand offers a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing you to work in the country after completing your studies. This visa can be granted for upto 3 years, depending on your qualification and how long you studied. It’s a great pathway for gaining international work experience and potentially applying for residency.
How Much Does it Cost to Study in New Zealand?

Tuition fees in New Zealand vary depending on the course and institution. Bachelor’s degree: Fees range from about NZ$20,000 to NZ$40,000 per year. Many bachelor’s degrees can be completed in three years. Postgraduate degree: Fees range from about NZ$20,000 to NZ$45,000 per year. PhD: International PhD students pay the same as New Zealand PhD students, which is about NZ$6,500 to NZ$7,500 per year for most subjects. Additionally, you’ll need around NZD 20,000 to cover living expenses (or NZ$17,000 for school years 1–13).
What are the Best Universities and Institutes in New Zealand for International Students?

New Zealand is home to several world-renowned universities and polytechnics. New Zealand has 8 universities in total and all are ranked in the top 1% in the world. The institutes offer a wide range of courses and are known for their research excellence and supportive learning environments.
Do I Need Health Insurance to Study in New Zealand?

Yes, international students are required to have comprehensive health insurance for the duration of their stay. Many institutions offer tailored health insurance plans for their students.
What is the Student Visa Processing Time?

Processing times for student visas can vary. Generally, it takes about 6-7 weeks to process your application, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your course start date.
Can I Work While Studying in New Zealand?

Yes, international students on a valid student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain valuable work experience and support yourself financially during your studies.
What happens if my work visa is denied?

If your visa is denied, you may be given the opportunity to address the issues. It’s best to consult an immigration adviser to explore your options for reapplying or appealing the decision.
How do I know which work visa is right for me?

The right work visa depends on your specific circumstances, such as your job offer, skills, or relationship to a New Zealand citizen or resident. An immigration adviser can help assess your situation.
Can I apply for permanent residence with an AEWV?

Yes, after working under certain conditions, you may be eligible to apply for a resident visa, depending on your circumstance. Schedule a consultation with our licensed immigration adviser to know more.
Can I include my family in my work visa application?

Yes, in many cases, your partner and dependent children may apply for visas to accompany you. For example, a Partnership Work Visa allows your partner to work while you’re on a work visa.
How long can I stay in New Zealand on a work visa?

The duration depends on the visa type. For example, the Accredited Employer Work Visa typically lasts for up to five years, while others may vary.
How to apply for a work visa?

It depends. For Accredited Employer Work Visa, you will need a job offer from an accredited employer.
How does the Parent Resident Visa ballot system work?

Selections for the Parent Resident Visa ballot occur four times a year: February, May, August, and November, typically on the second Tuesday of the relevant month. To be included in a selection, you must submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) by the last day of the month prior to the selection. For example, if you want to be considered for the August selection, your EOI must be submitted by 31 July. Each year, enough EOIs are selected to meet the quota of 500 Parent Resident Visa approvals. If your EOI is not selected within two years, it will expire, and you will need to submit a new one. You can submit your EOI online or via a paper form. If selected, you’ll need to meet income and sponsorship requirements to proceed with the visa application.
Can I travel in and out of New Zealand with a Resident Visa?

Yes, once you have a Resident Visa, you can travel in and out of New Zealand freely. However, travel conditions may apply during the initial period of residence, so it's important to comply with any terms stated on your visa.
What is the Green List, and how does it relate to residence pathways?

The Green List is a list of high-demand jobs in New Zealand. Applicants who qualify for roles on Tier 1 of the Green List may be eligible for the Straight to Residence visa, while those on Tier 2 can apply through the Work to Residence pathway after completing the required work period in New Zealand.
What is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa?

This visa is for people who have skills that will contribute to New Zealand's economic growth. You must have a job or job offer in skilled employment in New Zealand. Your job must pay at least the median wage. You need 6 points to apply for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. -Claim 3 to 6 points for your qualification (Bachelor’s degree or higher), New Zealand occupational registration or income. However, you cannot combine points from any of these skill categories. For example you cannot combine points from your qualification with points from your income. -Claim 1 point for each year of skilled work in New Zealand, up to a maximum of 3 points. These points can be combined with the points from your qualification, New Zealand occupational registration or income.
How do I apply for a Green List residence visa?

You will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Immigration New Zealand’s system, along with supporting documentation like your job offer, qualifications, and evidence that you meet all visa requirements.
What if I don’t meet the Green List criteria?

If your occupation is not on the Green List or you don't meet the eligibility criteria, other residence pathways may still be available, such as the Skilled Migrant Category or sector-specific visa options.
How long does the residence process take under the Green List?

Processing times for Green List residence applications are faster than standard pathways. The exact time depends on your situation, but Tier 1 applications are prioritized for quicker processing, while Tier 2 requires two years of work before applying.
Do I need a job offer to apply?

Yes, a valid job offer in a Green List occupation is required to apply under either Tier 1 or Tier 2. The employer must be accredited, and the job must meet relevant criteria set by Immigration New Zealand.
Can I switch from a work visa to residence under the Green List?

Yes, if you hold a valid work visa and meet the requirements for a Green List occupation, you can transition to residence through either the Straight to Residence or Work to Residence pathway.
What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2?

Tier 1 of the Green List allows eligible professionals to apply for residence immediately through the Straight to Residence pathway. Tier 2 requires you to work in a Green List occupation for at least two years before applying for residence through the Work to Residence pathway.
What is the Green List?

The Green List is a list of high-demand occupations in New Zealand that offers a streamlined pathway to residence for skilled workers. The list is divided into two tiers, offering different residency options based on your profession and qualifications.
What sectors are covered under the Green List?

Key sectors include healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and infrastructure. Some roles in the care workforce and transport sector are also eligible under specific Work to Residence pathways.
Can I bring my family if I apply for residence through the Green List?

Yes, your partner and dependent children can be included in your residence application. They will also need to meet health and character requirements to be eligible.
Who is eligible for the Green List pathways?

Eligibility depends on your occupation, qualifications, and job offer. Both tiers include roles in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, construction, and IT. You must also meet standard visa requirements, such as health, character, and English language proficiency.
Can I extend my Visitor Visa while I’m in New Zealand?

Yes, in some cases, you can apply for an extension to stay longer, but this will depend on your current visa conditions and reason for staying. You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
Do I need to undergo a medical examination for a Visitor Visa?

In some cases, you may be required to undergo a medical examination, especially if you plan to stay for more than 6 months or if you’re from a country with a high risk of tuberculosis (TB).
Can I study or work on a Visitor Visa?

You can study for up to 3 months while on a Visitor Visa, but you are not allowed to work. If you wish to work, you’ll need to apply for a specific work visa.
Can I include my family in my Visitor Visa application?

Yes, your family (partner and dependent children) can be included in your application. Each family member will need to meet the visa requirements.
How long does it take to process a Visitor Visa application?

Processing times vary based on your nationality and the time of year, but it’s generally recommended to apply well in advance. Processing can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
How does A+ Immigration Services approach special cases?

We provide an honest, thorough evaluation of your case before proceeding. If we believe there's a viable path forward, we create a tailored strategy, often involving detailed research and consultation with specialists to increase your chances of success.
What is a Section 61 request?

A Section 61 request applies to individuals unlawfully in New Zealand seeking to have their status regularized. This is a highly complex request, and the outcome depends on the specific circumstances of your case. We can help develop a strong application, ensuring all relevant information is included.
What qualifies as a complicated immigration case?

A complicated case often involves visa denials, IPT (Immigration and Protection Tribunal) appeals, Section 61 requests, character or health waivers, or any case requiring specialized knowledge due to its complexity or unique circumstances.
Can I appeal if my visa application is declined?

Yes, depending on the type of visa and the reason for refusal, you may be eligible to appeal the decision. We will assess your case and advise if an appeal is worth pursuing or suggest other alternatives.
What are the chances of success in an immigration appeal?

The likelihood of success depends on many factors, including the specifics of your case, your eligibility, and how well the case is prepared. We offer an honest assessment before taking on any appeal to ensure your time and resources are used effectively.

We guide you through course admission, scholarship opportunities, career planning, and residence pathways, along with handling your student visa application. This way, you can focus fully on your education and experience.

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