To streamline the visa process for international students awaiting to start their studies, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is introducing changes to the way international student visa applications are allocated during the busy summer processing period.

These changes aim to offer more flexibility and improve processing efficiency, as we recognize the importance of timely visa decisions for our customers.

New Allocation Priorities

For students applying within New Zealand, INZ will prioritize visa applications from those applying for a second or subsequent student visa, either with a new provider or for a different course. This is because students transitioning to a new course or provider must have their new visa with updated study conditions before they can begin their studies.

It’s important to note that while prioritization of applications may occur, it does not guarantee the order in which visa decisions will be made.

Visa Processing Times

Other student visa applications will continue to be processed in the order they are received.

Ensuring Complete Applications

The quality and completeness of an application play a significant role in determining how quickly it is processed.

Applicants are advised to include all necessary information when submitting their visa applications. For detailed guidance on required documentation, please refer to our student visa information sheets.

Due to the high volume of applications during peak summer months, INZ may not be able to contact students before allocation if their application is incomplete. Missing documentation can lead to delays or, in some cases, application refusal.

Students applying for a visa from within New Zealand are reminded to include their tuition fee receipt at the time of application. Failure to do so may result in the application being declined.

Source: INZ