7 Feb 2025 – Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is adjusting how international student visa applications are allocated to ensure greater flexibility and efficiency during the peak summer processing period. The changes aim to improve processing times for students already in New Zealand who are waiting to begin their new courses.
Prioritization of Visa Applications for Students in New Zealand
For applications submitted from within New Zealand, priority will be given to students who are applying for a second or subsequent student visa, particularly when switching education providers or enrolling in a different course. This prioritization is necessary because students changing courses or providers must have a visa with updated study conditions before they can commence their new studies.
However, while these applications may be allocated first, this does not guarantee that they will be processed in strict order of allocation.
Processing Times for International Student Visas
INZ remains committed to processing other international student visa applications in date order. The quality and completeness of an application significantly impact how long it takes to process. Students are strongly encouraged to submit all required documents when applying to avoid delays or potential declines.
Due to the high volume of applications received during peak summer months, INZ is unable to contact applicants before allocation if documents are missing. Incomplete applications may be declined.
Students applying for a visa from within New Zealand must include their tuition fee receipt at the time of application submission, or their application may be declined.
Student Visa Processing Times by Education Provider
| Education Provider | Average Wait Time | Most Completed Within |
| Te Pūkenga | 2.5 weeks | 6.5 weeks |
| Private Training Establishments (PTEs) | 2 weeks | 5 weeks |
| Universities | 2 weeks | 4 weeks |
| Schools | 1.5 weeks | 2.5 weeks |
Definitions:
- Average Wait Time refers to the time taken for 50% of applications to be processed.
- Most Completed Within represents the time taken for 80% of applications to be completed.
- Processing times are calculated in working days, excluding weekends and public holidays.
If an application includes all required documentation, it is more likely to be processed closer to the average wait time. These timelines provide certainty to students planning their applications.
Student Visa Categories Included in Processing Times
The processing times above reflect the most common student visas used by international students, including:
- Fee Paying Student Visa (including English language students)
- Pathway Student Visa
- MFAT-funded New Zealand Scholarship Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
For more detailed information on visa requirements, students should refer to INZ’s student visa information sheets to ensure they provide all necessary documents upfront and avoid unnecessary delays.
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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.
