New Zealand Asks International Students to Apply Early for 2025 Visas

By Staff Reporter
WELLINGTON | May 26, 2025

New Zealand is asking all international students to apply for their student visas as early as possible if they plan to study in the country in mid or late 2025.

The country’s immigration department, Immigration New Zealand (INZ), has started its busiest visa processing periodfrom May to August. That means it could take longer than usual to get your visa. If you don’t apply early, you might miss your university start date or face travel problems.

What You Should Know

If you’re planning to begin your studies in July, August, or September 2025, INZ recommends you apply for your visa at least 3 months before your travel date.

This applies to:

• New students

• Students returning to continue their education

• Those joining undergraduate, postgraduate, English language, or exchange programs

Who Needs to Take Action

You should apply now if:

• You’re starting or returning to studies in mid or late 2025

• You haven’t submitted your visa application yet

• You’re still waiting for your final admission letter or bank documents

• You want to book flights, accommodation, or insurance soon

If you delay, you could face:

• Visa processing delays

• Missed intake deadlines

• Higher travel costs

• Difficulty finding a place to live on time

How to Avoid Problems

Here’s what you can do to stay on track:

• Apply early – 3 months before travel is safest

• Send all documents together – INZ will not ask for missing documents during busy times

• If your final admission letter isn’t ready, ask your university for a conditional Offer of Place to begin your application

Student Visa Types in New Zealand

New Zealand offers different types of student visas depending on your study plan:

Documents You Will Need

To apply for a New Zealand student visa, you usually need:

• A valid passport

• An Offer of Place from a New Zealand school or university

• Proof that you’ve paid your tuition fees, or a scholarship letter

• Proof of enough money to live in New Zealand (at least NZD $20,000 per year)

• Travel and health insurance

• Medical certificate (if needed)

• Police certificate (if required)

How to Apply for a Student Visa

1. Go to the INZ website: www.immigration.govt.nz

2. Create an account

3. Fill out the student visa application form

4. Upload all your documents

5. Pay the visa fee (about NZD $375)

6. Submit your application

7. Check your email for updates

Once your visa is approved, you can book your flights, housing, and make final plans for your studies.

Final Advice

Don’t wait until the last minute. Applying early gives you the best chance to arrive in New Zealand on time and avoid stress. If you are still waiting for final documents, talk to your university — they can help you start your visa process.