New Zealand is a dream study abroad destination for many students. Did you know approximately 1,600 students were enrolled in New Zealand universities in 2022? It is home to many well-recognised varsities that offer top-notch study programs, attracting several international students. If you want to study in New Zealand, here is everything you must know about student visas.

Key Highlights:

• Why is New Zealand a popular study destination?
• Types of student visas in New Zealand
• Let’s understand the Fee Paying New Zealand study visa better
• New Zealand student visa requirements
• New Zealand study cost
• Documents required
• Online application process for New Zealand student visa

Why is New Zealand a popular study destination?

• Education is the 4th driver of the economy in New Zealand, and 4% of the country’s population consists of Indians.
• Students can stay and explore work opportunities by opting for a post-study work visa. Depending on your course, this visa allows you to work for 2-3 years post-completion of your education.
• New Zealand universities offer an extensive range of courses such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Data Science and Hotel Management, Business Management, and Fashion Management.

To study in New Zealand, you should have a valid student visa.

Types of student visas in New Zealand

There are various types of student visas to study in New Zealand. Following are some important types of study visas students must know.

Sr. No.	Types of student visa	Description
1	Fee Paying Student Visa	Students can apply for this visa to pursue a full-time course from an approved educational institution. Students can stay for up to 4 years, depending on the course. Processing time: ~49 weekdays
2	Exchange Student Visa	Students can apply if they have secured a seat under the approved student exchange scheme. Students can stay for up to 4 years, depending on the course. Processing time: ~11 weekdays
3	Pathway Student Visa	Students who aspire to opt for up to three consecutive courses can apply for this student visa. Students can stay for up to 5 years, depending on the course. Processing time: ~49 weekdays

Let’s understand the Fee Paying New Zealand study visa better
To apply for this visa, your university should be on the list of approved educational institutions, as mentioned on the official website of New Zealand Immigration. With this visa, you can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during your course. The duration of the student visa will depend on the length of the higher educational course. 

New Zealand student visa requirements

• Students should pay the entire course fee.
• Soon after arriving in New Zealand, you must proceed with entry permission by filling out a paper arrival card or digital traveller declaration.
• You must have enough funds to study and stay in New Zealand.

If you meet these New Zealand study visa requirements, the student visa process will be seamless.

New Zealand student visa cost
The cost will be NZD 375+. The cost will vary depending on the length of the study program.

Documents required

• ID Proof
• Passport-size photographs
• Health and character certificate
• Students must genuinely want to study in New Zealand
• Should have a valid university offer letter
• Health and travel insurance
• Proof of funds to finance your stay and education

Online application process for New Zealand student visa

• Gather all your documents and keep soft copies ready.
• Visit the official New Zealand immigration website to fill out the online application form.
• Submit all the necessary documents
• Pay the application fees
• Await your visa decision
• If you meet all their criteria, you will receive your student visa.

So, with this information, you can plan your academic journey to study in New Zealand. If financial hurdles are troubling you, you can opt for an education loan for study abroad courses. These days, students opt for education loans to finance their higher education independently.
At Avanse Financial Services, we offer student loans with multiple benefits, such as 100% finance, quick loan sanctions, and more. If you want to know about educational loan eligibility, interest and other aspects of education loans, please don’t hesitate to connect with us. All the best.