Immigration and Visa Information

New Zealand has many agreements with other countries, which allow a person to come to New Zealand for 90 days without a visa. During that time, you can study or be a tourist. Please consult your nearest New Zealand Embassy or High Commission for information on visa requirements. The school or institution you choose can also help you with visa information. However, the standard requirements are:

Complete the Application for Student Visa Form :

These are available at the New Zealand Embassy or High Commission and your local travel/education agencies. With the 'Application for Student Visa' you will need to include: A recent passport-size photograph.

Payment of a non-refundable visa application fee :

An 'Offer of Place' from a New Zealand education school or institution which states that you have been accepted by the school, the name of the course, the minimum time to complete the course, whether a course fee is required to be paid or the student is exempt from the fee (e.g. scholarship students). The New Zealand institution, which has confirmed your enrolment, will send this 'Offer of Place' to you. Evidence of payment of course tuition fee or evidence of exemption from fee.

Note: Students are no longer required to produce evidence of payment of course fees before their applications are approved in principle.

A guarantee of accommodation :

A written assurance from a New Zealand education institution or other persons that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand. Most New Zealand institutions will assist you with accommodation.

Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and return travel back to your home country. You will need to provide medical clearance and character references ONLY for courses, which are longer than 24 months. Contact the New Zealand Embassy or High Commission for further information on this.

Students will only be issued with a student visa if they have enrolled in an approved course at an institution or establishment, which is accredited to offer it. If your application for a student visa is approved you will need a passport which will be valid for 3 months beyond your initial date of departure from New Zealand.