New Zealand Study Visa Guide

Studying in New Zealand can be a great opportunity for international students who are looking for high-quality education in a welcoming and diverse environment. New Zealand has a well-developed education system, with a strong focus on practical learning and research. The country has eight universities, which are all internationally recognized and offer a wide range of programs.

International students are required to have a student visa to study in New Zealand. You can apply for a visa online or through the New Zealand embassy or consulate in your home country. We are providing a detailed guide for New Zealand study visa for Pakistani. If you are planning to make your future in New Zealand, keep reading this. 

Types of Student Visas For New Zealand

New Zealand has designed 5 types of student visas depending on the duration of study program and course type for international students. The student visa types applicable to you are explained below:

• Fee-paying student visa: The students who are enrolled in a full time study program at an institute which is accredited by New Zealand are applicable for this type of student visa. The visa has validity of four years depending on your course duration and the holder of this type of visa can work 20 hours a week during semester time and full time during winter or summer holidays and semester breaks.

• Exchange Student Visa: The students enrolled in an accredited institute of New Zealand as an exchange student are required to apply for this type of visa. It has validity of 4 years depending on your course duration and you are allowed to work 20 hours a week during semester time and full time during holidays and semester breaks.

• Pathway Student Visa: The students who want to study three separate courses in New Zealand in a row can apply for this type of visa. It has validity of 5 years depending on the duration of your courses. You can study three different courses in New Zealand in one student visa. The holder of this type of visa can work up to 20 hours per week in semester time and during holidays and semester breaks work for full time.

• Foreign Government Supported Student Visa: This type of visa is applicable to those students who have availed a foreign government funded scholarship or loan. They will need to provide a documented proof of foreign government funded scholarship and financial aid which will grant them their study and living expenses. The visa has validity till duration of your study course in New Zealand which can last from three months to 4 years. The students will also be allowed to work 20 hours a week during semester time and full time during semester breaks.

• New Zealand Aid Student Visa: The students whose study expenses will be afforded by funding and scholarship programs of New Zealand’s Government are eligible to apply for this type of visa. The visa validity remains intact till you study program ends in New Zealand which can be maximum of four years program.

How To Apply For New Zealand Study Visa From Pakistan

If you are a Pakistani citizen and would like to apply for a student visa to study in New Zealand, here are the steps you should follow:

• Choose a program: You should research the universities and programs available in New Zealand and choose the one that best suits your interests and goals.

• Check the visa requirements: You should check the New Zealand immigration website to find out the specific requirements for Pakistani citizens applying for a student visa. These may include a medical check-up, police clearance, and evidence of English language proficiency.

• Apply to the university: You will need to apply to the university and be accepted before you can apply for a student visa. Check the university's website for the admission requirements and application deadlines.

• Pay the fees: Once you have been accepted, you will need to pay the tuition fees for your program. You should also budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation.

• Apply for the visa: You can apply for the student visa online through the New Zealand immigration website. You will need to provide your passport, admission letter from the university, proof of financial support, and other documents as required.

• Attend the visa interview: You may be required to attend a visa interview at the New Zealand embassy or consulate in Pakistan. This is an opportunity for the visa officer to ask you questions about your application and verify your documents.

• Wait for the decision: After you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for the decision on your visa. This may take several weeks or months, so it's important to apply well in advance of your intended start date.

Once you have received your student visa, you can travel to New Zealand and begin your studies. Good luck with your application!

New Zealand Study Visa Requirements

If you are planning to study in New Zealand as an international student, you will need to apply for a student visa. Here are the general requirements for a New Zealand study visa:

• Enrollment in a course of study: You must have an offer of enrollment in a course of study from an approved education provider in New Zealand. This can be a university, polytechnic, or other educational institution.

• Proof of financial support: You must be able to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel to your home country. This may include bank statements, scholarship letters, or a guarantee of financial support from a sponsor.

• English language proficiency: You must demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking an approved English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum score required will depend on the institution and program you are applying for.

• Health and character requirements: You must be in good health and of good character to be granted a New Zealand study visa. You may be required to undergo a medical examination or provide a police certificate.

• Travel documents: You must have a valid passport and any other travel documents required for entry into New Zealand.

• Payment of fees: You must pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the length of your stay and the type of visa you are applying for.

New Zealand Study Visa Fees

The cost of a New Zealand study visa varies depending on the length of your course and the type of visa you are applying for. Here are some general guidelines for the fees:

• Student Visa Application Fee: The application fee for a New Zealand student visa 2024  is NZD $330 for most international students.

• Immigration Levy: In addition to the application fee, you may also be required to pay an Immigration Levy. This is currently NZD $55 and applies to most visa applications.

• Insurance Requirements: As an international student in New Zealand, you may also be required to have health and travel insurance for the duration of your stay. The cost of insurance varies depending on the provider and level of coverage.

• Other Fees: Depending on your circumstances, you may also be required to pay additional fees, such as for a medical examination, police clearance certificate, or translation of documents.

New Zealand Study Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a New Zealand study visa can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, the complexity of your application, and the volume of applications being processed by the New Zealand immigration authorities. According to embassy’s new policies, 50% of visa applications are processed in 13 working days and reaming are processed within 24 days. SO an average range of visa processing time for New Zealand from Pakistan is 18-43 working days. 

Part Time Working Permission

International students are allowed to work at least 20 hours a week regardless of whichever student visa type they have attained. The students who are enrolled in Masters by Research Program or PhD Program are exempted from 20 hour work limit meaning they can work as many hours as they wish.

Post Study Work Visa New Zealand

New Zealand offers a Post-Study Work Visa to international students who have completed a recognized qualification in New Zealand. Here are some key points about the Post-Study Work Visa:

• Duration of the visa: The duration of the Post-Study Work Visa depends on the level of your qualification. If you have completed a bachelor's degree or higher, you may be eligible for a three-year visa. If you have completed a qualification below a bachelor's degree, you may be eligible for a one-year visa.

• Work restrictions: The Post-Study Work Visa allows you to work in any job, and for any employer, in New Zealand. There are no restrictions on the type of work you can do.

• Pathway to residency: The Post-Study Work Visa can be a pathway to residency in New Zealand. If you can find a skilled job that is relevant to your qualification, you may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Migrant Category resident visa.

• Application process: You can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa online, through the New Zealand Immigration website. You will need to provide evidence of your qualification, as well as evidence of your financial support and health and character requirements.

• Deadline for application: You must apply for the Post-Study Work Visa within three months of the end date of your student visa.

Please note that the Post-Study Work Visa requirements and regulations can change over time, so it's important to check the latest information on the New Zealand Immigration website.

Taking Guidance From Study Abroad Consultants

Taking guidance from study abroad consultants can take the burden off your shoulders whether you are arranging the documents for submitting your visa application or need visa requirements details. Since the study abroad consultants deal with study abroad aspirants on daily basis they are well known to perquisites and challenges faced in visa process. To save the time and avoid making mistakes that can lead to visa rejection consult these study abroad experts to get timely help. As a student this whole process of visa and admissions is certainly confusing and frustrating as it takes detailing which often consumes plenty of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 - What is a New Zealand study visa?

A New Zealand study visa is a type of visa that allows you to study in New Zealand. It is also known as a student visa or a student permit.

2 - Do I need a study visa to study in New Zealand?

If you are a citizen of Pakistan and want to study in New Zealand for more than 3 months, you will need a study visa.

3 - What are the requirements for a New Zealand study visa?

The requirements for a New Zealand study visa include an offer of place, evidence of sufficient funds, a valid passport, and good health and character

4 - How do I apply for a New Zealand study visa?

You can apply for a New Zealand study visa by completing an online application form on the New Zealand Immigration website. You will need to submit supporting documents along with your application.

5 - How long does it take to get a New Zealand study visa?

The processing time for a New Zealand study visa can vary depending on the individual case. It is recommended that you apply at least three months before your course starts to allow for processing time.

6 - Can I work while I study in New Zealand?

Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays.

7 - Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand on a study visa?

You may be able to bring your partner and dependent children with you to New Zealand on a study visa, but they will need to apply for their own visas and meet the relevant requirements.