To be granted a student visa, you need to apply. We recommend that you present or mail your application along with all the necessary supporting documents at a New Zealand consulate nearest you (or if you are in New Zealand send your application to our Palmerston North Branch).

FAQs 

In addition to my completed application, what else do you need from me? 

A few things:

• 1 passport-sized photo less than 6 months old 
• Your passport, which must be valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from New Zealand 
• Your application fee 
• A medical certificate if you’re planning to be in New Zealand for more than 12 months. A chest x-ray may be necessary if you have visited a country where TB is a risk.
• A police certificate if you’re planning to be in New Zealand for more than 24 months.
• A letter or form from the university or education provider offering you a place on a approved course.
• Evidence that you have the funds required to support yourself while in New Zealand 

Where can I find and download the student visa application?

The application is located on our Forms and Guides page.

How much will my application for a student visa cost?

The New Zealand Government has a bilateral fee-waiver agreement with the US, so if you are a US citizen, you do not have to pay fees for a student visa. If you are from a country other than the US, click here to find out what fees you will have to pay. 

Where should I submit my application? 

To your nearest New Zealand consul or, if you are in New Zealand, to our Palmerston North Branch. 

How long will it take to be approved for a student visa? 

Providing all your paperwork is in order, it should take around 2 weeks for your application to be approved. However, to be safe it is best to allow 4 weeks!