If you want to study here for more than 3 months, you will require a student visa.

Your course of study and the education provider you choose must be Government approved to offer places to overseas students.

You will need to show evidence of financial resources ( NZ$20,000 per year or sponsorship by an NZ resident or citizen) and a credible reason to study. Your previous study and work history will be taken into account by INZ when they assess your application.

Can I work as well?

If you are enrolled in full-time study which meets the criteria you will be allowed to work for up to 20 hours each week during the academic year, and full time during semester breaks and the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

You cannot, however, be self-employed while holding a student visa.

If you study full-time (minimum 30 weeks) for a bachelor degree, bachelor honours degree, postgraduate diploma, master’s or doctoral degree you will be eligible for a Post Study Work Visa. If you study a qualification at Level 7 and below (excluding bachelor’s degrees), relevant to an occupation on the Green List you will also be eligible for it.

The duration of the visa will normally match the time you study in New Zealand, up to a maximum of three years.

If you find a job offer which is not related to your NZ qualification, you can still apply for a work visa under the Accredited Employer Work Visa category if you have relevant work experience or previous qualifications gained overseas.

For details of your individual circumstances please contact us for a personal assessment.