Fee Paying Student Visa
For international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider.
The Fee Paying Student Visa is a New Zealand study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$750 including levy) and processing time (~4-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Fee Paying Student Visa is for
For international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider.
No direct path; graduates may move to a Post-Study Work Visa and then skilled residence.
Fee Paying Student Visa - eligibility criteria
- Hold an offer of place from an approved provider
- Show funds for fees and living costs (about NZ$20,000 per year)
- Hold onward travel funds or a ticket
- Meet health and character requirements
- Show genuine intention to study
Fee Paying Student Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Fee Paying Student Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$750 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~4-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Duration of the course, usually up to 4 years |
| Work rights | Up to 20 hours per week in term, full-time in holidays |
| Study rights | Full-time study at the named institution |
| Government fee | ~NZ$750 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct path; graduates may move to a Post-Study Work Visa and then skilled residence. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct path; graduates may move to a Post-Study Work Visa and then skilled residence.
Many applicants also compare Post-Study Work · Post-Study Work Visa, Visitor Visa · Visitor Visa, Partner of Worker · Partner of a Worker or Student Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Fee Paying Student Visa pitfalls we fix
Fee Paying Student Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Fee Paying Student Visa cost?
The Fee Paying Student Visa government fee is ~NZ$750 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Fee Paying Student Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Fee Paying Student Visa lead to permanent residence?
No direct path; graduates may move to a Post-Study Work Visa and then skilled residence.
Can I work on the Fee Paying Student Visa?
Work rights: Up to 20 hours per week in term, full-time in holidays.
Who can apply for the Fee Paying Student Visa?
For international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority