New Zealand Shifts Student Visa Applications Online with Increased Work Hours

As of September 18, 2025, New Zealand will embrace a fully digital approach for student visa applications. This transition to Immigration Online, the upgraded digital platform, marks a significant modernization in the visa application process.

Additionally, starting in November 2025, international students will enjoy increased work opportunities, allowing them to work up to 25 hours per week while studying. These changes promise a more streamlined experience for students pursuing their education in New Zealand.

Key Changes in the Student Visa Application Process

New Zealand is phasing out paper applications for most student visa categories. Effective September 18, 2025, the following visas will only be accepted through the online system:

• English Language Student Visa
• Exchange Student Visa
• Fee Paying Student Visa
• Pathway Student Visa
• New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa
• Foreign Government Supported Student Visa

This transition to Immigration Online, which launched on August 18, 2025, is part of New Zealand’s goal to modernize visa processing and improve efficiency.

Already Applied? What’s Next for You

If you submitted your student visa application via the old system before August 17, 2025, don’t worry. Immigration New Zealand will continue processing your application. You can still upload documents and respond to requests until a decision is reached.

Unfinished Draft Applications

If you have an incomplete application in the old system, you must submit it by September 17, 2025. After this date, any drafts will be deleted, and you will need to start anew using the updated online form.

Transition to the New System

Immigration New Zealand has already begun redirecting new applicants to the updated Immigration Online form since August 18, 2025. Over the next year, other visa categories, including family visas, will also transition to this new platform.

Expanded Work Hours for International Students

Another important update is the increase in work hours for eligible international students. Starting in November 2025, student visa holders can work up to 25 hours per week during study periods. This change raises the previous limit from 20 hours, providing students with greater flexibility.

This new work allowance applies to all tertiary students participating in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs, including those on short-term placements.

What You Need to Know

For students planning to study in New Zealand:

• Ensure you are using the new online application form.
• Submit any draft applications by September 17.
• Prepare for the expanded work hours starting in November 2025.

This shift to an online-only application process aims to make the experience smoother and faster, provided you stay mindful of deadlines.

Conclusion

If you are preparing to study in New Zealand, familiarize yourself with the new online system and keep track of crucial deadlines. With increased work hours and quicker application processing, these changes promise to enhance your student experience. Embrace this new era of opportunity and efficiency in New Zealand!