September 12, 2024: INZ advises international students coming to New Zealand in 2025 to apply for their student visa at least three months before their planned travel date to ensure timely processing
Key Points:
- Student Visa Prioritized: Student visas are being prioritised by INZ
- Peak Period: The busiest time for visa processing is from October to February. Visa applications may take longer to process during this period, so early submission is highly recommended.
Why Apply Early?
Submitting your visa application at least 3 months in advance gives you the best chance of receiving a decision in time. Application processing times increase during peak periods, and delays may affect your ability to start studying as planned. Processing times are updated monthly on the official website.
Visa Processing Times (As of August 2024)
Processing times vary depending on the type of education provider:
- Universities: 5 weeks
- Te Pūkenga: 7 weeks
- Private Training Establishments (PTEs): 6 weeks
- Schools: 4 weeks
Please note that these are typical processing times, but some applications may take longer.
Types of Student Visas:
- Fee Paying Student Visa (including for English language students)
- Pathway Student Visa
- MFAT-funded NZ Scholarship Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
Important Tips:
- Complete Your Application: Make sure to include all required documents and information when submitting your application. Incomplete applications may result in delays or rejection.
- Document Readiness: Some students might not have all the required documents 3 months in advance. In such cases, apply as soon as you have everything ready, but keep in mind that late applications might not be processed in time.
Due to the high volume of applications, the visa office may not reach out if any documents are missing. Missing information can lead to your application being declined. Check the official student visa information sheets for guidance on what to include in your application.
By applying early and ensuring all required documents are included, you can avoid unnecessary delays and increase the chances of starting your studies on time in New Zealand.
Reference
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/
About ICL Immigration
ICL Immigration, based in Auckland, is an established licensed immigration adviser , Immigration Consultant and NZ International Student Education Consultant with over 20 years of experience. We’ve helped over 1,000 immigrants realise their New Zealand settlement dreams.
We specialise in a broad spectrum of visa services, including NZ visitor Visa, student, residency, work visas, and business-related services like employer accreditation. We ensure personalised solutions for individuals and businesses aiming to navigate New Zealand’s immigration landscape successfully.
