Feb 06, 2025
Ever wondered what it takes to study in one of the world’s most progressive countries that is also a leading student hub? We’re talking about the country of New Zealand. You would surely check for most of the essentials like the universities, your choice of courses, cost of education and other aspects. But before you zero down on this destination, understanding the visa process is key to making your study in New Zealand plans a reality.
So, in this article we will guide you through the immigration policies of New Zealand for studying, working, and living. We’ll also explore post-study work opportunities and pathways to long-term residence. If you're ready to embark on your educational journey, read on to learn all about the New Zealand Student Visa and the options available for you.
Table of Content
New Zealand offers different types of student visas for international students for a wide range of purposes. The most common type of student visa is the Fee-Paying Student Visa, and the other one is a Pathway Student Visa. Let’s look into the details of these visa types.
The Fee-Paying Student Visa is for those who want to study full-time in New Zealand. For this, they must have an offer and a confirmation of enrolment from an approved University. They will have to pay the full cost of their course and have enough funds for their education and living expenses.
This visa has a validity of 4 years. International students with this visa can live independently if they are above a certain age or need to come with a parent or legal guardian. Once their stay period is over, they can apply for another student visa or work visa.
Another type of visa students can opt for is the Pathway Student Visa. This is for those who want to study 3 courses consecutively on a single visa.
For this visa, students need to have an offer from the pathway course provider. They will also need a letter explaining the courses they would study along with the commencement and ending dates. They must pay the full cost of their first course or first year depending on which one is shorter and should be able to pay for the subsequent courses.
Students on this visa can stay in the country for up to 5 years and work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during holidays depending on the courses. After the duration of the visa is completed, they can apply for another student visa or work visa.
Having gained an understanding of the kinds of student visas in the country, let’s take a look at the part-time work rights for international students while they study in New Zealand.
International students can engage in part-time work depending on their visa type. The conditions of part-time work are available on the eVisa, the visa label on the student’s passport, or the visa letter.
International students pursuing tertiary education in New Zealand like, PhD or Masters, and some English language courses are eligible for part-time work. Secondary school students aged between 12-13 years can work part-time if they have permission from their school and parents.
The country allows 20 hours per week of part-time work during studies and 40 hours per week during holidays for international students. However, they need to be in the country for at least 2 academic years and have a Level 4 qualification or above as per NZQCF or they must be part of an approved tertiary students exchange scheme.
Let us now look at the post-study work and associated opportunities in various sectors for international students.
New Zealand offers a Post Study Work Visa of up to 3 years, allowing students to gain relevant work experience and a chance to settle in the country. These Visas are offered depending on the type of work and intent of the visit. The country has a well-developed economy that international students can be a part of to kickstart their careers.
Here is a look at some of the visas[AS1] for working and living in New Zealand:
New Zealand has a list of sectors that need professionals in different roles called the Green List.
Some of the popular Green List subjects that make international students eligible for post-study work visa applications are:
So those who fit into any of the above enlisted sectors have greater scope of post-study work visa in New Zealand.
Students planning to pursue higher education in New Zealand can connect to KC’s New Zealand Experts for further details in this regard. Our team also helps students right from the initial counseling stage to securing admission, analyzing the cost to study in New Zealand, education loan guidance, visa processing, and other related services. With our expertise, we ensure students are well-equipped for every aspect of their study abroad journey. So, fulfill your study in New Zealand dreams by applying for the upcoming intakes through KC Overseas Education.
Ans – Exchange Student and Foreign government supported student visa are the other visa types for international students depending on certain terms and conditions.
Ans – Based on student’s profile, immigration may or may not conduct the interview of the student. Yes, this is applicable for all visa types.
Ans – Nursing, Construction, Early Childhood Teaching, etc.
Ans – Yes, students holding an NZ student visa can bring their spouse along on a dependent visa.
Ans – Yes, student’s partner can work if the student pursues an eligible level 7 or 8 program or any level 9 or 10 program in New Zealand.