Fee Paying Student Visa
The Fee Paying Student Visa lets international students study full-time on an approved course in New Zealand, from primary school to university. Applicants need an offer of place from an approved education provider, paid tuition (for one course or one year, whichever is shorter), enough money to live on and insurance. Most students can work up to 25 hours a week and full-time in scheduled holidays.
Life in New Zealand
Money
3
Currency
New Zealand Dollar
NZD
New Zealand Dollar
Cost of living
89
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
10.5–39%
Income tax (national)
GST 15%
39% applies to income over NZD 180,000; ACC earners' levy is charged in addition.
Living
1
Happiness
#11 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
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Who it’s for
International students paying their own tuition (or with a partial scholarship or loan) who have an offer from an approved New Zealand education provider.
Eligibility
Offer of place
An offer of place from an approved education provider that is a signatory to the Pastoral Care Code, showing course name, length, full- or part-time study and holiday dates. A conditional offer can lead to approval in principle.
Tuition paid
Evidence you have paid tuition for 1 course or 1 year of study, whichever is shorter, or are exempt, or have a home-country government loan for a bachelor's or higher.
Living funds
- NZD 20,000
- per year
- NZD 1,667
- per month if studying under a year) for tertiary
- NZD 17,000
- per year
- NZD 1,417
- per month) for school Years 1 to 13
- NZD 20,000 per year (or NZD 1,667 per month if studying under a year) for tertiary, English language or other non-compulsory study;
- NZD 17,000 per year (NZD 1,417 per month) for school Years 1 to 13.
- Alternatively an acceptable sponsor or guarantor.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirement
- Document checklist
- Fees
The full requirements are for members
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- 5 more requirements
- 9 documents
- 1 fee
- 5 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Programs and scholarships Premium
Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.
Places to visit in New Zealand
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