When it comes to selecting a study destination, New Zealand might not be the first choice of many students but it is considered in the top 8 choices. New Zealand, home to the most pristine lakes in the world, is pure tranquillity. The educational institutions in New Zealand are aiding several students to pursue their dreams and transform them into reality. Before travelling to New Zealand, students need to obtain a study visa. This blog provides brief information about the process of obtaining a study visa: 

When and where to apply for a New Zealand Study Visa?

The perfect time to apply for a New Zealand study visa is 3-4 months before your scheduled arrival in the country. Even though you have to apply for a study visa via online mode, it is required to send a physical copy of your passport and other documents to the New Zealand Embassy in your country. 

Study Visa processing time 

New Zealand Embassy takes around 2-3 months to process all the study visa applications of applicants. On average, 90% of applications are processed within 45 days. Therefore, it is recommended to apply 3-4 months in advance to be on the safer side and get your visa on time. 

Documents required for Study Visa 

Following is the list of documents and paperwork which is required while applying for a Study visa in New Zealand: 

• A valid passport for up to 3 months beyond the finishing date of your course

• Application fees payment receipt

• Two passport-sized recent photographs

• Acceptance letter from New Zealand educational institution 

• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay in New Zealand or a minimum bank balance of NZ$10,000 for a year.

• Evidence of arranged accomodation

• Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from educational institutions that you attended

• Scores from tests like GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, etc

• Health and character certificates

• Medical and travel insurance (if you are fee paying student)

• Proof of no criminal records 

Italian Study Visa process 

The brief process of obtaining a study visa in New Zealand is as follows: 

Step 1 – Obtain an acceptance letter from New Zealand University

In order to be eligible for New Zealand study visa, you need to obtain acceptance letter from the university. It certifies that you have been accepted as an international student in that university and now, you need a study visa for your study. 

Step 2 – Identify the ideal visa for you

There are different types of New Zealand study visas and all of them have different features. You have to select the best one according to your requirements: 

1. Fee-paying study visa – With this visa, students can stay in New Zealand for up to four years while being enrolled in full-time courses and can work 20 hours per week part-time while studying and full time during holidays. 

2. Pathway study visa – This visa is for students who wish to study three courses one after another in New Zealand for up to 5 years. They can also work part-time while studying and full-time on holidays. 

3. Exchange study visa – Students can study for up to four years under a student exchange program and can also work for up to 20 hours per week part-time while studying and full-time during holidays. 

4. Foreign Government Supported Student Visa – Students with foreign government loans or scholarships can study in New Zealand with this visa and also work part-time.

Step 3 – Collect all the documents 

Prepare a file with all the aforementioned documents and also arrange photocopies of these documents. In case of medical tests, provide a document of the latest report which is approved by Immigration New Zealand. 

Step 4 – Fill up the application form and submit it

Carefully, fill out the application form online through the website of the New Zealand embassy and submit the physical copies of the documents to the embassy. 

Step 5 – Be ready for departure 

Once you receive the decision from the New Zealand embassy, pack your bags and be ready for your departure from your home country.