Overview
The Fee Paying Student Visa is designed for international students who are funding their own education in New Zealand. It requires an offer of place from an approved education provider and proof of sufficient funds to cover both tuition and living expenses. The visa allows for full-time study and includes provisions for part-time work, helping students gain local experience while they learn.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must have a confirmed offer of place from an NZQA-approved education provider. You must demonstrate that you have paid your tuition fees for the first year (or the full course if shorter) and have sufficient funds for living costs—typically NZD $20,000 per year. You must also meet health and character requirements, including potential medical examinations or police certificates, and declare that you have acceptable insurance.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Secure an Offer
Apply to and receive a confirmed offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Financial Evidence
Gather proof of tuition payment and evidence of sufficient funds (NZD $20,000/year) for living expenses.
- 3
Step 3: Complete Health and Character Checks
Obtain necessary medical certificates, X-rays, and police clearances based on your country of origin and length of stay.
- 4
Step 4: Submit Online Application
Create an account on the Immigration New Zealand website and submit your application online, as paper applications are no longer accepted.
- 5
Step 5: Pay Fees
Pay the required visa application fee and any applicable levies.
- 6
Step 6: Await Decision
Monitor your application status online. You may be contacted by a case officer if further information is required.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Offer of place from an approved education provider
- Evidence of tuition fee payment
- Proof of funds for living costs (e.g., bank statements, loan documents, or sponsorship)
- Medical and chest X-ray certificates (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates
- Evidence of acceptable insurance
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
While this is a temporary visa, completing a qualification in New Zealand may make you eligible to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa. This can lead to further work experience and potential pathways to residence under skilled migrant categories.
Family options
You cannot include your partner or dependent children in your student visa application. However, they may apply for their own visas (visitor, work, or student) based on their relationship to you, depending on your level of study and the nature of your course.
Language notes
While there is no universal English threshold for all courses, individual education providers may require proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, PTE) for admission to their programs.
After arrival
Upon arrival, you must comply with all visa conditions, including maintaining full-time enrollment and attendance. You should keep your contact details updated with Immigration New Zealand and ensure your insurance remains valid for the duration of your stay.
Common pitfalls
- Applying too close to the course start date during peak season (October–March).
- Failing to provide clear, verifiable evidence of the source of funds.
- Not meeting the specific insurance requirements mandated by the education provider.
- Assuming work rights are automatic without checking specific visa conditions.
FAQs about Fee Paying Student Visa
Who is the Fee Paying Student Visa for?+
International students who have been accepted into a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider and have the financial means to cover their tuition and living costs.
What are the eligibility requirements for Fee Paying Student Visa?+
To qualify, you must have a confirmed offer of place from an NZQA-approved education provider. You must demonstrate that you have paid your tuition fees for the first year (or the full course if shorter) and have sufficient funds for living costs—typically NZD $20,000 per year. You must also meet health and character requirements, including potential medical examinations or police certificates, and declare that you have acceptable insurance.
How much does the Fee Paying Student Visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Fee Paying Student Visa: From NZD $850 (includes application charge and levies).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Fee Paying Student Visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Approximately 5.5 to 8.5 weeks for 80% of applications; peak season (October–March) may experience delays..
How long can I stay on the Fee Paying Student Visa?+
Up to 4 years, depending on the duration of the course of study.
Can I work on the Fee Paying Student Visa?+
Generally allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled holidays, subject to specific visa conditions.
Does Fee Paying Student Visa lead to permanent residence in New Zealand?+
While this is a temporary visa, completing a qualification in New Zealand may make you eligible to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa. This can lead to further work experience and potential pathways to residence under skilled migrant categories.
What are common mistakes with Fee Paying Student Visa?+
Applying too close to the course start date during peak season (October–March). Failing to provide clear, verifiable evidence of the source of funds. Not meeting the specific insurance requirements mandated by the education provider.