Most Indian students apply for the Fee Paying Student Visa through Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
What you need before applying
Core documents:
- Offer of place from an NZQA-approved provider
- Proof you've paid (or can pay) tuition
- Proof of living funds: NZD 20,000 per year (or NZD 1,667/month if under a year)
- Valid passport, health insurance, medical/x-ray where required, police certificate for stays over 24 months
The Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS)
India is part of INZ's Funds Transfer Scheme, an approved way to show and transfer your living funds through a recognised channel. Ask your provider about it early.
Fees and timing
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application fee | Broadly NZD 430+, often NZD 750-850 with levies (check official tool) |
| Processing | Most decided within ~5-10 weeks |
| When to apply | At least 8-12 weeks before travel |
Apply early for the Oct-March intake. This is New Zealand's peak season and processing can run longer.
Where to apply
Apply online via the official portal: immigration.govt.nz.
Visa rules shift regularly. Before you submit, check your application with a mentor who has been through it.
