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New Zealand is typically characterised as a rugby-mad country isolated from the rest of the world and overrun by hobbits. Still, there are numerous reasons to consider a studying visa and New Zealand work visa. So here’s all you require to know about applying for a student visa in New Zealand.
Individuals who do not require a student visa to visit New Zealand
You don’t require a student visa for New Zealand if you’re a New Zealand or Australian resident with a New Zealand residence class visa or an appropriate Australian permanent residence visa with no conditions. However, you will be required to apply for a student visa if none of those mentioned above applies to you.
Those who DO require a student visa in New Zealand
A student visa is required if you plan to study in New Zealand for more than three months and are not from NZ or Australia. You can study in New Zealand on a temporary or visitor visa for less than three months long courses. However, it is necessary to obtain a student visa for lengthier courses.
Know What is the process to apply for a Student Visa in New Zealand?
Before flying to New Zealand, you can apply for a student visa online or in person.
Call your local New Zealand consulate or embassy to receive an application form and an appointment to apply in person inside your home country. You may also be required to apply online by creating an account on the official website. Your application should be complete and submitted at least six weeks before travelling to New Zealand.
The cost of an application depends on your country of origin. You’ll have to demonstrate:
- Acceptance letter from a New Zealand university
Your New Zealand student visa application requires proof of acceptance at a recognised New Zealand-based education provider.
- Evidence of adequate money
You must also show that you have the financial means to pay your tuition costs and proof of living expenditures while studying in New Zealand (via a sponsor, a loan, a scholarship, government support or sufficient bank balance). If your course is more than nine months long, you must demonstrate that you have at least approx NZD$16,000 (US$10,870) in your account each year.
- Evidence of onward travel
This can be proof to show that you have already purchased onward tickets, proof of additional finances, or a sponsor’s responsibility to pay for onward travel. The aim is to demonstrate that you intend to depart the nation once you’ve finished your studies.
- Insurance for travel
This is generally arranged and done by your educational institution
- Certificates of health
You will be required to give a general medical certificate to show that you are healthy. In addition, you will require a chest x-ray certificate and perhaps a tuberculosis test if you are thinking of studying in New Zealand for more than 12 months.
If you are under 18, you must also produce proof of organised housing and a police certificate of “good character” if you are 17 or older.
Along with the documents mentioned above, you’ll also need to provide:
- Two passport photographs in colour
- A genuine passport for at least three months following your departure date from New Zealand.
- You must provide proof that you have paid the application cost.
- In the case of online Student visas applications, it typically takes 20 days to process, whereas those submitted on paper take 25 days.
Is it possible to work in New Zealand while on a student visa?
Foreign full-time students on a student visa are legally allowed to work up to 20 hours weekly and even can obtain a post-study work visa in New Zealand. Work hours are done during the school year and full-time during all planned holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and summer break. Work experience essential for your studies is not subject to the 20-hour restriction. Working for oneself is not allowed for international students.
Students working for a research master’s degree or a doctorate can work as many hours as they like. After completing your study, you may work in New Zealand, but you must first verify with the New Zealand immigration authorities and apply for the appropriate work visa.
Visit the government’s official immigration website for further information about New Zealand student visas and your ability to work in New Zealand.
