New Zealand is well-known for its stunning scenery. Beautiful valleys, mountain roads and sea make it an interesting place to explore for tourists worldwide. At the same time, in recent years, New Zealand has also emerged as a go-to place for education for international students. The presence of excellent infrastructure, modern curriculum and revered faculty, makes this country a hot spot of higher education.

If you are also someone planning to travel here, then knowing the New Zealand student visa processing time is essential as it helps you plan ahead. And, if you are not sure how to go about admission in a New Zealand college or university, then contacting Western Overseas is your solution.

Why choose to study in New Zealand?

Many international students prefer New Zealand to pursue higher education. Let’s find out why. 

High-quality education: New Zealand is home to an outstanding educational system that is known for its excellence, creativity, and scholarly brilliance. The nation guarantees high-quality education that is in line with students’ interests and professional ambitions since its institutions are routinely ranked among the best in the world.

Work opportunities: During and after the studies, New Zealand offers international students a chance to begin their professional career. With the growing economy and favourable immigration policies, students can work part-time while studying and explore professional options after their degrees are completed. 

Safe and welcoming environment: New Zealand is among the top places in the world for overseas students to study because of its welcoming and secure environment. Both locals and visitors to the country feel fairly safe because of the low crime rate. International students can also participate in various social activities to facilitate their integration to the country.

Beautiful natural environment: The beautiful natural setting of New Zealand, which includes lush forests, amazing beaches, and mountains covered with snow, are widely recognised. While visiting the stunning country of New Zealand, students may enjoy a range of sporting activities like hiking, skiing, and surfing.

Low living cost: When compared to other well-known places like the US and the UK, New Zealand’s living costs are very low. To help ease the financial load on overseas students, the government also provides a range of financial assistance and scholarship opportunities.

What is the NZ study visa processing time?

The NZ study visa processing time can vary between 2 weeks to 2 months depending on different factors. These reasons include the country you belong to, the complexity of your application, or the current workload on immigration authorities. 

However, in recent years, the authorities have improved the study visa processing time, which helps students know the outcome of their application faster.

Types of student visa for New Zealand

Although New Zealand offers many other types of visas, choosing a student visa has many advantages. The student visa is specially designed for students who wish to pursue full-time education in the country. Moreover, student visa holders have access to various services and resources provided to support international students. In addition to that, the government has made improvements in the student visa processing that has reduced the New Zealand student visa processing time. 

For studying in New Zealand, you can get three types of visas which are:

• Fee-paying student visa: It is for full-time studying students.
• Foreign government-supported student visa: This is for students who receive financial assistance from a foreign government.
• Pathway student visa: It is for students who plan to pursue multiple consecutive programmes of study.

Among these alternatives, the fee-paying student visa is the most frequent for overseas students in New Zealand. When applying for this Visa online from outside New Zealand, you need to pay almost NZD 375. Depending on your nationality, applying for a visa by post may be less expensive.

Tips to Accelerate Your Student Visa Application

Here are some tips that will help you accelerate the New Zealand student visa processing time:

• Start early: There is a well-known quote that “the early bird catches the worm”. And, it also applies to visa processing time. Submit your application as early as possible so that you can learn about the outcome and then reapply if required.
• Complete documentation: Keep all your documents in order and make sure you have the necessary photocopies and photographs to curb delays in the visa application process.
• Complete medical exams: It is necessary to have a medical check-up and fit certificate to conclude a visa application process. So, schedule your medical checks right away to avoid delays in the later stages.
• Clear communication: Make sure you respond to any kind of requests for additional information promptly and provide the necessary details and papers. This will also help you save time.
• Character proof: Also, make sure you have a character certificate and police clearance ready at your disposal to avoid delays. 

Remember that every student’s circumstances are different, so think about getting individualised guidance from immigration or education professionals like Western Overseas.