Student Visas
Studying in New Zealand
New Zealand is a popular destination for international students, offering a wide range of study options and attractive post-study pathways. All qualifications in New Zealand sit within the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF), which is administered by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). NZQA sets standards for New Zealand qualifications and assesses overseas qualifications to determine their equivalent level in New Zealand.
We assist both new and returning students with mapping out their study and career pathways. Whether a person is upskilling or progressing in their existing field, we provide structured guidance to help them understand their options and make informed decisions. Our experience and longstanding relationships with education providers across New Zealand allow us to offer accurate and practical advice.
Common Student Visa Categories
Although several student visa types exist, the two most commonly used are:
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Fee-Paying Student Visa — for international students enrolled with approved education providers.
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Dependent Child Student Visa — for school-aged children of eligible work or student visa holders.
Requirements for Fee-Paying International Students
To be granted a Fee-Paying Student Visa, applicants must meet Immigration New Zealand’s requirements, including:
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Holding a valid offer of place from an approved education provider.
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Having sufficient funds to pay tuition fees.
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Holding appropriate medical and travel insurance for the duration of the stay.
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Showing adequate living funds or sponsorship.
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Meeting health and character requirements.
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Holding a ticket to leave New Zealand, funds to buy one, or sponsorship for this cost.
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Demonstrating genuine intent to study in New Zealand (INZ must be satisfied the visa is not being used for another purpose).
Dependent Child Student Visa
A child may be eligible for a Dependent Child Student Visa if their parent holds a valid New Zealand work visa or student visa. This visa allows the child to attend primary or secondary school in New Zealand as a domestic student, meaning no international tuition fees are charged. Eligibility depends on the parent’s visa type and meeting INZ’s usual health and character requirements.
This visa applies to both offshore first-time students and onshore students returning to study. Only education providers that are signatories to the Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice 2016 can issue offers of place to international students.
A Fee-Paying Student Visa generally allows the holder to study full-time and, in most cases, work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled holidays. The visa duration usually matches the length of study that has been paid for.
For these applications, Immigration New Zealand places strong emphasis on bona fide (genuine) intent and financial evidence. Applicants must show:
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a clear and credible reason for choosing their course
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how the course aligns with their background and future plans
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that their funds come from genuine, verifiable sources
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that funds are actually available for their study and living costs
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Dependent children of certain work or student visa holders may apply for a student visa that allows them to attend primary or secondary school in New Zealand. These children are classified as domestic students, meaning they do not pay international tuition fees.
However, dependency rules are strict.
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A child who is 20 years or older cannot be granted a visa based on their parents’ temporary visa and must apply independently.
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Children under 20 must still meet health, character, and dependency requirements.
For parents holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), supporting a dependent child requires earning at least NZD $55,844 per year before tax, which is the current minimum income threshold for dependent children under AEWV settings.
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