What is a Fee Paying Student Visa?
The Fee Paying Student Visa is for people who want to study full-time in New Zealand. They pay for their courses and study at an approved school. With this visa, they can also work part-time while they study.
Visa Charges (NZ Immigration)
Starts from NZD $375
Processing Time
Around 9 weeks for 80% of applications
Length of Stay
Up to 4 years
Things to Note
- Your visa lasts as long as your study program.
- Family members like partners and kids can apply for visas too.
- If you’re studying online but need to come to New Zealand for tests or practical classes, you can still apply.
Benefits of the Fee Paying Student Visa
- Study in New Zealand Institutions: Attend government-approved schools or colleges, including English language courses.
- Part-Time Work Opportunity: Work up to 20 hours weekly during the school term and full-time during breaks.
- Accommodation Considerations: Independent living may be possible for older students, while younger ones might need to live with parents or guardians.
Note: The cost and availability of New Zealand visas can change because of decisions made by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.
Reach out to us today, to find out how we can assist you in reaching your immigration goals.
Application Requirements
Read below for information on what is required to apply for the New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa.
ID proof
Valid proof of Identity is required to be submitted in the application.
Health Check
Make sure you meet health requirements.
Good Character
Show proof of good character.
Genuine Intentions
You must intend to meet the conditions as asked by the visa.
Offer of Place
Need an acceptance letter from an approved school or college.
Proof of Tuition Fees
Show that you can pay for courses.
Medical and Travel Insurance
You must have good medical and travel insurance that covers your stay.
Funds
You must have enough funds to cover your living costs during the length of your visa.
Onward Travel
Proof of travel plans to leave New Zealand or funds for it.
Permission to Work
If you’re allowed, especially for secondary education students.
Conditions for the Visa
If you’re interested in applying for a Fee Paying Student Visa, then there are a few conditions you need to be aware of.
Entry Permission
Get it when you arrive in New Zealand by filling out a traveller form.
Work Rights
Check your visa for rules on working part-time or full-time during breaks.
Study Requirements
Go to the school listed on your visa and do well in your studies.
Honouring Visa Expiry
Leave New Zealand before your visa runs out or apply for an extension or a new visa if needed.
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Fee Paying Student Visa Assistance at ICL
The Fee Paying Student Visa is perfect for international students who want to get a complete educational experience in New Zealand. It offers flexible study and part-time work opportunities.
However, it can be hard to navigate the journey for the Fee Paying Student Visa Process. At ICL, we recognise that and offer a tried and tested step-by-step method for the visa application process, that gives you a higher chance of visa approval. So get in touch, and we will help you get your visa without much hassle and stress.
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“I would like to thank ICL Immigration from the bottom of my heart for helping me with my essential skills work visa. Immigration NZ had many questions and keep finding problems with my employment offer and say that my job is not a mid-skilled one. Somehow, Nirmala Murthy and ICL immigration get me the 3-year essential skilled work visa that I needed. Very supportive, helpful and available - I will trust them with anything and recommend them to everyone who need any help with a visa or immigration matter.”
“Nirmala and her team worked very hard to get my work visa and her knowledge of the immigration system is very valuable when applying. I felt she worked very hard as my application required a fast turnaround and she would get back to me as soon as she could if I had any questions. Would use her services again.”
"I'd like to thank ICL Immigration from the bottom of my heart for helping me with my work visa. I will trust ICL with all my future visas and recommend them to everyone who needs any help with a visa or other immigration matters"
“I would highly recommend this place for anyone who is looking for professional service and excellent results”
"I would very much recommend Nirmala, ICL Consultancies because of the highly professional working attitude and the friendly atmosphere. She made sure to keep in touch with us every step of the way, and it was great working with her. Keep up the good work, all the best."
“It was great to work with ICL for my residency application process, Nirmala has been very helpful through the process, proper guidance, proper documentation and recommendation letter write up, flexible appointments after working hours even, answering queries even on weekends, it's motherly care! I believe all these are possible from her many years of experience and of course attitude and passion. Quality service in less expensive if we can compare the market. I would recommend anyone to go with ICL.”
“Getting the visa and the right course in New Zealand was not easy. Nirmala from ICL Immigration helped a lot. She made difficult things simple for me. Very thankful for her help and advice, always there to support me. 5 Stars.”
“Very glad I chose ICL to help me with my student admission. Many things I was unsure about but they understood my goal of coming to NZ and patiently answered all my questions. They guided me to choose the best course. I am very happy - you should contact them if you want to study in NZ.”
"I was very stressed about all the visa stuff and finding the right course to study in New Zealand, but Nirmala from ICL Immigration made it all easy. She answered all my questions and I am very happy I found them. Thanks ICL Team!"
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FAQs
Who is eligible for a Fee Paying Student Visa?
Eligibility is for individuals who want to undertake full-time study in New Zealand at an approved education provider and can pay the total cost of their courses. Applicants must also meet standard health and character requirements.
How long can I stay in New Zealand with a Fee Paying Student Visa?
This visa allows you to stay for up to four years, depending on the length of your study program. It is generally granted for the same duration as the study you have paid for.
What are the costs involved in applying for this visa?
The application fee starts from NZD 375. Additional costs may include health checks, police clearances, and proof of financial support.
Can I work while studying under a Fee Paying Student Visa?
Yes, you can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled holidays and the Christmas and New Year holidays.
What if I must attend my education provider in New Zealand for practical study or exams?
Distance learning or correspondence students who must visit New Zealand for more than three months to attend practical study or exams can apply for this visa.
Do I need proof of English proficiency to apply for this visa?
The ability to speak or write English is not a requirement for the visa application itself; however, your education provider may require proof of English proficiency to offer a place on their course.
Can my family accompany me to New Zealand?
While you cannot include your partner or children on your visa application, they can apply for their visas based on their relationship with you.
What if my passport expires before the end of my study period?
If your passport expires before the end date of your study, your visa may be issued for a shorter duration. You will need to renew your passport and then apply for a new visa or transfer the remaining balance of your existing visa.
What kind of health and travel insurance do I need?
It would help to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance for your stay in New Zealand.
What are the requirements for onward travel?
You must either have a return ticket out of New Zealand or sufficient funds to purchase a ticket for onward travel, or you must be sponsored for the cost of your onward travel.
What are the conditions regarding study requirements on this visa?
You must study full-time and attend the specific place of study endorsed on your visa. You are expected to make satisfactory academic progress and meet any attendance requirements your education provider sets.
What happens if I want to change my course or education provider?
If you wish to change your course or education provider, you must apply to Immigration New Zealand to vary the conditions of your visa accordingly.
Disclaimer: The information provided is subject to change based on New Zealand government policies. For the most current information, please refer to Immigration New Zealand or contact ICL Immigration for updated guidance.
