On 18 August 2025, international student visa applications moved to Immigration New Zealand’s enhanced Immigration Online system.
INZ has redesigned the student visa application process to make it more efficient and effective for everyone. Within the form, applicants will be supported with guidance to ensure they know what INZ is asking them and has easy access to information to help them answer the questions accurately.
The new application form is dynamic which means applicants will only need to answer questions relevant to their specific situation. The form itself may take slightly longer to complete than the previous form as there are more questions and evidence prompts. However, by collecting the additional information up front, rather than having to contact the applicant and request it, INZ expects them to receive decisions on their visa applications faster. Applicants will also receive email notifications and real-time status updates within their dashboard, giving applicants and their advisers more visibility of the applications progress and clarity around any action they need to take.
As part of the work to transition international student visas to enhanced Immigration Online, INZ is removing paper-based applications for the following visa types:
- English Language Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
- NZ Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa.
From 18 September 2025 onwards you must apply for these visas using INZ online application form. If you need help completing your online application, check the Applying online page or give INZ Customer Service Centre a call.
Transition period
From 18 August 2025, new applications are being automatically directed to the new application form.
All applications submitted on the old application form on or before 17 August 2025 are being processed. If you have a draft application on the old application form, you have until 17 September 2025 to complete and submit it, or you can choose to start a new application on the new application form. After 17 September 2025, all remaining draft applications on the old form will be deleted, you will have to start a new application on the new form.
You can access your application in INZ old system here:
Student visa peak
We are heading into a peak period for student visa applications.
You should aim to apply 3 months ahead of your intended travel date as this will help to avoid delays that may impact your ability to start studying.
When INZ receives applications from students offshore who are applying for their visas very early, for example 6 months or more ahead of their study period, INZ may Approve in Principle (AIP), subject to confirmation of funds and confirmation of study being provided to them at a date closer to the student’s travel period.