September 18, 2024
As the academic year approaches, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has released an advisory urging international students to submit their student visa applications in advance. The end of the year is INZ’s busiest period, and with a significant increase in visa applications, it becomes tough to process all the applications on time.
Applicants are suggested to plan accordingly to avoid potential delays. Based on last year’s data, INZ recommended students to apply at least four months before their planned travel dates. Despite this advice, about 40 percent of student applications from significant markets such as India and China were received within six weeks of the intended travel dates last year, with 6 percent submitted just a week or less before.
Table: India and China, New Zealand Student Visa Status by Year
| Nationality | Application Status | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| China | Approved | 10,745 | 19,762 | 19,871 |
| Declined | 378 | 706 | 1,003 | |
| % Declined | 3.40% | 3.45% | 4.81% | |
| India | Approved | 5,235 | 8,356 | 13,741 |
| Declined | 270 | 2,709 | 5,910 | |
| % Declined | 4.90% | 24.48% | 30.07% |
In FY 2022/23 and 2023/24, nearly 25-30% of Indian nationals’ student visa applications were declined, and for Chinese students, the rejection rate was between 3-5%.
Celia Coombes, INZ’s Director of Student Visas, highlighted the risks of late applications. “Submitting your application three months before your travel dates is crucial. Ensure that all required documents are complete, including proof of sufficient funds and a valid Offer of Place,” Ms. Coombes advised. She emphasized that missing documents or late submissions could result in students being unable to commence their studies on time, leading to disappointment.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the student visa information sheets available on INZ’s website to gather all necessary details for a complete application. Regular updates on visa processing times are also published online, providing applicants with current and relevant information.
For further details on student visas and application procedures, you can contact ICL Immigration licensed advisors or INZ
This proactive approach by INZ aims to smooth the process for both the institutions and the students, ensuring a timely start to their educational journey in New Zealand.
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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.
