For further information, read the information below about the conditions of a student visa. To find out how to apply for one, visit the INZ website at www.immigration.govt.nz.

If you have any questions about your student visa phone INZ free on 0508 558 855 or visit the INZ website at www.immigration.govt.nz. 

The conditions of your student visa

A student visa lets you study in New Zealand until a set date. It's very important that you always meet the conditions of your student visa. 

The conditions of your student visa mean you must:

• have enough money to live on – at least NZ$10,000 for a year’s study or $1,000 per month if you are studying in New Zealand for less than 36 weeks, or $400 per month if your accommodation has already been paid for. (You will need to show proof of payment or a letter from your education provider saying that you’ve already paid for your accommodation and other living costs.) 

• have enough money to travel home (or to go to another country which you are able to enter) 

• attend class at the place (education provider) written on your student visa 

• make academic progress while you are here, as determined by your education provider 

• pay the fees for your study or training
   

Your student visa may be cancelled if you: 

• fail to meet the conditions listed above 

• are not in New Zealand for the purpose you stated (i.e., you’re not studying) 

• receive income for work without the permission of Immigration New Zealand (INZ) 

• commit a crime

You should always ensure that your student visa is current and note when it expires so that you can renew it in time. Your student visa will only be renewed if you attend the course you are enrolled in. 

It is important to know the conditions of your student visa and to make sure that it matches what you are doing. 

How to renew a student visa

Renewing a student visa is not a difficult process. The NorthTec International Office will gladly offer assistance in renewing your visa, however it is your personal responsibility to have a valid visa while in New Zealand.

Visa free nationals and visitor permits

If you are entitled to enter New Zealand Visa free, you are permitted to enrol in a learning programme for up to three months without a student visa. 

If you choose to do this, you will still require your normal passport documentation to enter New Zealand. You will also have to provide New Zealand Customs with evidence of your onward travel arrangements (tickets out of New Zealand) and be able to show that you have adequate funds to cover your living expenses.

Studying for a whole semester while on a visitors permit is not allowed, because this is not a “single short course of study less than three calendar months”. Studying English Language for a period less than three calendar months is permitted. If you intend to study for a period longer than three calendar months, you must apply for a student permit.

Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through Immigration New Zealand, and can be viewed on their website www.immigration.govt.nz.

(The information above has been sourced from the NZ Ministry of Education Guide to Living and Studying in New Zealand, 2009. See www.minedu.govt.nz)