Application and visa reference
Official sources checked
NZLast updated 24 August 2026

New Zealand

An approved provider offer leads into an online student visa route, with work conditions and post study options tied to the course and qualification level.

Latest verified change20 July 2026

The Pathway Student Visa became more flexible, including lower level pathways, up to 30 weeks of English study in eligible pathways, and easier discipline changes for some school to tertiary students.

Main intakes
February and July
Study work limit
Up to 25 hours per week when visa conditions allow
Post study route
Up to 3 years depending on qualification
01

Application route

  1. Choose an approved education provider that is a signatory to the learner wellbeing Code of Practice.
  2. Apply to the provider and receive an offer of place with the programme and fee details.
  3. Prepare tuition, living funds, insurance declaration, health, character, and genuine study evidence.
  4. Submit the Fee Paying Student Visa online. Immigration New Zealand recommends applying at least three months before travel.
02

Visa essentials

  • The Fee Paying Student Visa requires an approved offer, tuition funding, living expense funding, and acceptable insurance.
  • A multi year course is stronger when the application includes a credible plan for funding later years.
  • Student visa conditions state whether part time and holiday work is permitted.
  • Paper applications are no longer accepted for the main international student visa categories.
03

Work and after study

  • Eligible students can work up to 25 hours per week and full time during scheduled holidays when their visa permits it.
  • The Post Study Work Visa can last up to three years, depending on the qualification and study completed in New Zealand.
  • From 16 November 2026, a new six month Short term Graduate Work Visa and expanded graduate diploma eligibility are scheduled to begin.
04

What to double check

  • Work rights are conditions of the individual visa, not an automatic entitlement for every course.
  • Changing provider or lowering the study level can require a new visa.
  • Apply early because peak intake processing can affect travel plans.
Primary references

Official sources

This guide is general planning information, not legal or immigration advice. The linked authority and the conditions on an issued visa take priority.