Planning to study in the beautiful land of Aotearoa (New Zealand)? If you are paying your own fees as an international student, the Fee Paying Student Visa (FPSV) is the visa for you.
Here is a simple breakdown of what you need to know about the FPSV—from money and documents to work rights.
The Essentials: Cost, Time, and Work Rights
| Feature | Detail |
| Length of Stay | Up to 4 years (usually matching the course length you pay for). |
| Cost (Online) | From NZD $850 (Includes application charge and levies). |
| Processing Time | 80% finished within 5.5 weeks. |
| Work Rights | You can work part-time up to 25 hours per week during study and full-time during holidays (check your visa conditions). |
| Note on Application | You must apply online. Paper applications are no longer accepted. |
Peak Season Warning!
Student visa applications are busiest between October and March. To avoid delays, INZ strongly suggests you apply 3 months before your course starts.
Main Requirements: The Four Proofs
To get your visa, you must provide clear proof in four key areas:
1. Place on a Course
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Offer of Place: You need a letter from an approved education provider (school, polytechnic, or university). This letter must confirm your course name and length, and that you have been accepted.
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Fees Paid: You must show a receipt proving you have paid the tuition fees for the first year or the whole course (whichever is shorter).
2. Money to Live On
You must show that you have enough money for living costs in New Zealand (in addition to your tuition fees).
| Study Level | Money Required (Per Year) |
| School (Years 1 to 13) | NZD $17,000 |
| Tertiary (University/College) | NZD $20,000 |
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Evidence: This must be shown through bank statements, education loans, or proof of an acceptable sponsor/guarantor.
3. Health and Character
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Health: You must be in good health. Depending on where you come from and how long you are staying, you may need a chest X-ray (if staying over 6 months) or a medical examination (if staying over 12 months).
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Character: You must be of good character. If you are 17 or older and staying for 24 months or longer, you must provide police certificates.
4. Intentions to Leave
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You must show a flight ticket out of New Zealand at the end of your course, OR show you have enough money to buy one (this money must be separate from your living funds).
Special Rule for Young Students (Under 10)
If the student is under 10 years old and not staying in an approved school hostel, they must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
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The parent/guardian must apply for their own separate Guardian Visa.
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The guardian must live with and care for the child while they are studying.
How to Apply Online (The 3-Step Process)
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Gather Your Documents: Collect your passport, offer of place, fee receipts, financial proof, health/police certificates (if needed), and guardianship proof (if under 10).
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Submit & Pay: Log in to the INZ online system, upload all scanned documents, and pay the visa fee (approx. NZD $850).
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Wait for Decision: INZ will check your application. If approved, they will send you an eVisa (electronic visa) via email.
If you find the documentation or application process complex, reach out to the FederPath Team for expert assistance.