New Zealand and Australian student visas are straightforward once you know the order of operations. Here's exactly what each involves, and what to prepare before you start.
Typical Immigration NZ processing time once your application is complete.
Minimum living-cost funds required in addition to tuition fees.
Share of student visa applications we've supported that were approved.
Select an institution and programme, then receive your official offer letter from the university before applying for your visa.
Submit your application to Immigration NZ online, along with your offer letter, passport, and supporting documents.
Demonstrate sufficient funds — around NZ$20,000/year for living costs, on top of your tuition fees, held in an accessible account.
A medical exam and police clearance may be required depending on your country of origin and course length.
Land in New Zealand, attend orientation, collect your student ID, and begin your course within your visa's conditions.
Minimum living-cost funds for a single applicant, on top of first-year tuition and return travel.
During study periods, with unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), depending on your qualification level and study location.
Accept your offer, pay the deposit, and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your CRICOS-registered university.
Buy Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) from an approved provider for the full length of your visa.
Apply online through ImmiAccount with your CoE, Genuine Student statement, financial evidence, and English test results.
Provide biometrics, complete a health exam with an approved panel physician, and supply police clearances if requested.
Land in Australia, attend orientation, and begin your course — maintaining full-time enrolment and your work-hour conditions.