New Zealand Student Visa Guide for Sri Lankan Students: Requirements, Process & Fees

Special Conditions:

• Dependent Visa Rules: If you're planning to bring family members, additional documentation for a dependent visa may be required.
• Part-Time Work: Most New Zealand Student visa holders are allowed to work part-time during their studies. Be sure to check the specific work rights attached to your New Zealand Student visa.
• Medical and Travel Insurance: You are required to hold comprehensive medical and travel insurance for the entire duration of your stay.

You’ve already set your sights on studying in New Zealand—now it’s just about finding the right New Zealand Student visa to match your plans!

New Zealand Student Visa Validity:

The validity of your New Zealand student visa is typically aligned with the duration of your enrolled course, plus a little extra time for travel or preparation. For example, if you're enrolled in a one-year program, your visa will usually be issued for that year, with a few additional months to accommodate your arrival and departure.

Extensions and Renewals:

If you plan to continue studying beyond the initial visa period, you may need to apply for an extension. Here are some common scenarios that require an extension:

• Continuing studies in the same program but needing more time.
• Enrolling in a new course after completing your current one.
• Upgrading to a higher qualification, such as moving from a diploma to a bachelor's degree.

How to Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa Extension

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth renewal:

1. Submit an Online Application:

• Apply through Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) website before your current visa expires.

2. Prepare Required Documents:

• Updated Financial Proof: Show you have enough funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel (e.g., bank statements, financial sponsorship letters).
• New Offer of Enrollment: Provide confirmation from your educational institution that you’ve been accepted into a continued or new course.
• Attendance and Academic Progress Reports: Some students may need to submit proof of satisfactory progress in their studies.
• Medical and Police Clearance (if required): If your previous documents are outdated, you may need a new medical certificate and a police clearance report.

3. Pay the Visa Application Fee:

• The New Zealand Student visa application fee ranges from NZD 330 to NZD 700, depending on your visa type and whether you apply online or via paper.

4. Await a Decision:

• Processing times can vary from 4 to 8 weeks, so it’s best to apply early to avoid any gaps in your study plans.

Important Visa Application Questions You Need to Know

How to Check My Visa Status?

• Log in to your RealMe account to check your visa application status. If it says "Submitted," your application is in process. Contact immigration if there’s a delay.

What to Do if My Visa Application is Rejected?

• You can reapply after a rejection. However, to avoid another rejection, you must review the reason for rejection, address the issue, and ensure all required documents are in place before reapplying.

Transitioning to Other Visa Types

• After completing your studies, you may want to stay in New Zealand for work or further education. Here are some options:

1. Post-Study Work Visa

• If you’ve completed an eligible qualification, this New Zealand Student visa lets you stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Completed a Level 4 or higher qualification (e.g., diploma, degree, or postgraduate course).
• Studied for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand.
• Your qualification must be on the approved list for post-study work rights.

Required Documents:

• Passport and recent New Zealand Student visa details.
• Proof of qualification completion (graduation certificate or academic transcript).
• A job offer is not required, but you must show intent to work in New Zealand.

Why Choose This Visa?

• You can work for employers across various industries, depending on your field of study.
• Gain experience to qualify for a Skilled Migrant Visa later.

2. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

You may be eligible for permanent residency if you have skills in demand.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Have a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
• Your job must align with New Zealand’s skill shortage list.
• Meet points-based criteria for age, qualifications, and work experience.

Required Documents:

• Employment contract and job offer letter.
• Proof of qualifications and relevant experience.
• Health and character certificates.

Why Choose This Visa?

• Provides a pathway to residency.
• Allows long-term employment in New Zealand.

3. Student Visa to Work Visa (Employer-Sponsored)

• If you secure a job offer after graduation, your employer may sponsor your work visa.

Eligibility Criteria:

• A valid, full-time job offer in a relevant field.
• Employer must prove they couldn’t find a local to fill the role.

Required Documents:

• Job offer letter and contract.
• Employer sponsorship documents.
• Proof of qualifications and relevant skills.

Why Choose This Visa?

• It provides a clear route to gaining work experience and residency.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Apply Early: Don’t wait until your New Zealand Student visa is about to expire.
• Check Latest Policies: Visa rules change, so always check Immigration New Zealand’s website.
• Keep Your Documents Ready: Having updated financial, academic, and health records speeds up processing.
• Consider Your Long-Term Goals: If you plan to stay in New Zealand permanently, choose a visa that aligns with residency pathways.

Here’s a quick recap of what you need to know:

• Student Visa Importance: It’s your key to studying in New Zealand and opening doors to a world-class education.
• Simple Application Process: The application is easy to follow, making your journey stress-free.
• Visa Extension/Transition: You have the flexibility to extend or switch your New Zealand Student visa as your studies evolve.

AECC offers free, expert assistance to students in Sri Lanka wanting to study in New Zealand. Our trained counsellors provide up-to-date information, help with document preparation, and ensure you apply at the right time without mistakes.