New Zealand student visas
Most international students study in New Zealand on the Fee Paying Student Visa. After you finish an eligible qualification, the Post Study Work Visa lets you stay and work. Always confirm current figures on immigration.govt.nz before applying.
The Fee Paying Student Visa
- An offer of place from an approved education provider.
- Proof you've paid your tuition (for one course or one year, whichever is shorter).
- Living funds — currently NZD $20,000 per year for tertiary study (or NZD $1,667/month for shorter courses). This figure changes — verify on immigration.govt.nz.
- Agreement to hold health and travel insurance for your stay.
- An approved English language level where required.
The Post Study Work Visa
- Up to 3 years, depending on your qualification level and how long you studied.
- Master's and doctoral graduates who studied at least 30 weeks in New Zealand generally qualify for the full 3 years.
- Bachelor's (Level 7) degrees and certain eligible Level 4–7 qualifications get a visa matching study length.
- You'll need recently completed eligible NZ study plus funds and health/character checks.
From late 2026, eligibility is set to extend to some Level 7 graduate diplomas — confirm the current rules. See working in New Zealand for what comes next.
Healthcare and insurance
International students must hold health and travel insurance for the duration of their visa — it's a visa condition, not optional.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand.