Fee Paying Student Visa
🇳🇿 New Zealand visas · Study
What it is
The main student visa for international students financing their own education in New Zealand. Covers tertiary, secondary, and primary education at approved providers. Allows part-time work during term and full-time work during holidays.
Key facts
- Category
- Study
- Duration
- Up to 4 years (matched to course length or passport expiry)
- Processing time
- Up to 8 weeks
- Maximum validity
- 4 years
- Extendable
- Yes
- Dependants
- Yes
- Work allowance
- 25 hours per week
- How to apply
- Online
- Health insurance
- Required
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee (online application fee)
- NZD 850
- Proof of funds (living costs, tertiary study)
- NZD 20,000 per year
- Proof of funds (living costs, compulsory schooling)
- NZD 17,000 per year
Key requirements
- Offer of place from an approved NZ education provider
- Proof of tuition fee payment for at least one year or course length
- Sufficient living funds: NZD $20,000/year (tertiary) or NZD $17,000/year (school-age)
- Full medical and travel insurance acceptable to the provider
- Good health (chest X-ray may be required)
- Good character (police certificates may be required)
- Genuine intention to study
- Evidence of return travel or funds for departure ticket
- Parent/guardian consent if under 18
Working on this visa
Up to 25 hours a week while studying and full-time in the summer holidays or scheduled breaks (tertiary/PTE), subject to visa conditions and written permission
Bringing family
Can include partner or dependent children.
After this visa
Can apply for a Post Study Work Visa after completing an eligible qualification.
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 27 July 2026.