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INZ student visa update: August 2024
Post Study Work Visa – cross crediting study from post graduate diploma to masters
Provided eligibility is met, most level 8 post graduate diplomas will be eligible for a one year post study work visa (PSWV) with masters graduates eligible for a three year post study work visa.
In order to be eligible for a PSWV, post graduate diploma (level 8) and masters qualifications (level 9) require a minimum of 30 weeks full time study in the specific programme/qualification being presented for a PSWV.
Students must have held a student visa for that programme/qualification and apply for their PSWV within three months of the expiry date of the student visa for qualification they are presenting to INZ.
Recently some students completed post graduate diplomas (PG dip) and cross credited directly into a taught masters. In these cases, the students did not undertake full time study in the masters for a minimum of 30 weeks full time in New Zealand, due to the cross credited PG Dip.
This resulted in issues for the graduates when they applied for their PSWV. INZ is working directly with affected students and exploring options for them. However, it is important for agents and education providers to understand the PSWV rules.
Eligibility for Post Study Work Visas following study at level 8 and 9 are:
- a minimum of 30 weeks full time study in that specific qualification,
- hold/held a student visa for that specific qualification, and
- apply for their post study work visa within three months of the student visa expiry for that specific qualification.
Although the initial coursework of a masters might be similar to, or the same as a post graduate diploma, the two programmes have different entry criteria and are recognised as separate qualifications. For students who want to cross credit their PG Dip to a masters and undertake some extra study in order to gain a three year PSWV for that masters, the student would need to have studied the masters itself full time for at least 30 weeks.
Note: Study weeks include exam preparation time, but exclude holiday periods and time spent repeating failed components.
We will continue to engage with the education sector to ensure they are aware of the requirements for a post study work visa. If you have questions about this article and are an agent or student, please talk to your education provider in the first instance.
Student visa peak – apply three months before intended travel
The processing of international student visas is a key focus for INZ, particularly as we get closer to the end of the year.
We are now coming into the period in which INZ receives the highest volumes of applications.
As soon as they have all the documents they need to apply for their visa, students should submit their application three months before their intended travel date to give them the best chance of having their application decided in time. They can apply earlier than three months if they wish, as long as they have all the required information and documents.
Our visa processing times are published on the INZ website and updated monthly: Visa processing times for international students
New fees and levies for visas come into effect from 1 October 2024
Earlier this month, the Government announced that the cost of applying for all visas will increase on 1 October 2024.
Until now, the immigration system has been heavily subsidised by taxpayers.
The new fees have been set at a rate to recover the costs of assessing and processing each visa type and more accurately reflect the total service surrounding the immigration system.
Student visa fees increase from $375 to $750. The post study work visa fee increases from $700 to $1670.
Student visa fees differ depending on where the student applies from so be sure to check the new fees and levies here.
It is also important to note that New Zealand does have agreements with some countries where student visa fees are waived, and these remain. You can find information here.
INZ is receiving questions from the education sector on whether students can apply for visas now at the lower fee, and upload documents later once they are ready.
Applications received before 1 October 2024 will be charged the current fee, however if the applications are not ready for assessment because they are missing documents then this will result in delays or disappointment for the student.
INZ will not be contacting applicants if documents are missing from the application and, if the missing information is key to the assessment, then the applications may be declined.
Please make sure you are advising students to submit their visa application when it is complete and ready for assessment. For more information, please see the student visa information sheets here - Student visa information | Immigration New Zealand
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Clarifying visa process for students sees launch of video guide
ENZ General Manager Marketing and Communications Geoff Bilbrough said the video would support those considering study in New Zealand.
“As we get closer to the end of the year and the peak period for student visa applications it was important to get this information out early and help the students considering New Zealand understand what is involved in the application process.”
The video outlines what applicants can do to make sure their application is able to be processed as quickly as possible. These include:
- checking the student visa information sheet on the INZ website to make sure a good quality application is submitted that includes all the evidence and supporting documents needed to process the application
- demonstrating that applicants can comfortably afford to study in New Zealand. New Zealand has a thorough funds assessment and INZ looks for genuine sources of funds that are credible and can be verified. If INZ cannot verify funds or is not satisfied that any verification would be genuine, then the application will be declined.
It aims to make sure the students understand the requirements before applying.INZ receives the highest volumes of student visa applications between October and March. Applications generally take longer to be decided during this peak period, so it is important that anyone who is wanting to come to New Zealand to study next year applies early.
“If you want to study in New Zealand next year, INZ recommend applying three months before you intend to travel. This gives you the best chance of having your application decided in time,” Bilbrough said.
The video is available on Study with New Zealand the official Government website giving information for students considering studying in New Zealand. ENZ will also be promoting the video on social media in all key markets and making it available to education agents.
Link to video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GoqKkkXgIck
Update on 24/9/2024
The video is now available in Chinese and Thai and will soon be available in Japanese and Korean. These versions can be downloaded from ENZs's BrandLab.
For further information:
Justin Barnett | Director of Communications, Education New Zealand
justin.barnett@enz.govt.nz
+64 021 875 132
About Education New Zealand (ENZ) https://www.enz.govt.nz/
Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency dedicated to helping Aotearoa New Zealand realise the social, cultural, and economic benefits of international education. Our role is to promote New Zealand as a high-quality education destination offering excellent education and students experiences and to encourage New Zealand students to study overseas.
With approximately 105 staff in 16 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector which includes schools, English language providers, Private Training Establishments, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (Te Pūkenga), and universities. Internationally, we work with a range of education stakeholders, including government agencies and education providers to identify and encourage sustainable growth opportunities for New Zealand’s education sector.
- checking the student visa information sheet on the INZ website to make sure a good quality application is submitted that includes all the evidence and supporting documents needed to process the application
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Education links recognised during Prime Minister’s Trade Mission to Malaysia and Republic of Korea
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s recent Trade Mission to Malaysia and the Republic of Korea involved a wide range of education-related events. They proved the perfect opportunity to recognise New Zealand’s education cooperation with both host countries while also raising New Zealand’s education brand awareness. The events also highlighted the strong people-to-people connections that were started through international education and continue through links to alumni and the industries they have gone on to work in.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon speaking at the New Zealand-Korea Education Partnership Ceremony in Seoul held on 5 September.
Representing our sector during the Mission was Professor Grant Edwards, Vice Chancellor of Lincoln University, and John van der Zwan, Executive Director of Schools International Education Business Association (SIEBA). Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) and NZ Inc agencies worked closely with the sector delegates on the education components of the Mission which included two education-related arrangement signings, education representatives at the two Gala Dinners, the Green Room with Influential Alumni event in Kuala Lumpur, and the New Zealand – Korea Education Partnership Ceremony in Seoul.
Professor Grant Edwards of Lincoln University with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the signing of a MOU with Universiti Putra Malaysia.
Joining the Mission for the education elements of the programme was ENZ’s Acting General Manager – International, Mr Ben Burrowes. Mr Burrowes said that having education representatives and dedicated education components feature strongly on the Prime Minister’s agenda supports the education sector with our brand awareness and elevates New Zealand’s reputation in these two important source countries for international students.
"During the series of events, Prime Minister Luxon highlighted the strong connections between our people that have been nurtured through education.
“At one of the alumni events in Malaysia which featured Malaysian alumni who are now influential leaders in politics, business, science, and education, Prime Minister Luxon spoke of the importance of such alumni networks in fostering these connections,” said Mr Burrowes.
While in Korea, ENZ’s Acting General Manager International, Ben Burrowes, provided an appreciation gift to our school sector partner, Seoul Metropolitan City Office of Education to recognise their commitment to supporting young learners through global citizenship initiatives.
Professor Edwards said that he found the discussions on trade and education with Malaysia and the Republic of Korea highly valuable.
“Lincoln University signed two significant agreements during the trip: firstly, we signed an MoU with Universiti Putra Malaysia to advance research collaboration in agriculture and food security, and then a second MOU with the Korea Agency of Education, Promotion and Information Service in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (EPIS) to support student training in specialised agricultural education programmes.
“The new agreements will broaden Lincoln University’s collaborations with international institutions and further expand Aotearoa New Zealand’s global education partnerships,” said Professor Edwards.
Professor Grant Edwards of Lincoln University with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the signing of a MOU with the Korea Agency of Education, Promotion and Information Service in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (EPIS) in Seoul.
Representing the school sector for the Republic of Korea leg of the Mission, John van der Zwan of SIEBA provided remarks at the education event on fostering school cooperation and participated in local education site visits after the Trade Mission programme concluded. Mr van der Zwan also visited a local education agency and a school in Seoul where he taught twenty years ago.
Executive Director of SIEBA Mr John van der Zwan speaking at the New Zealand-Korea Education Partnership Ceremony.
Mr van der Zwan said that the Trade Mission was a special opportunity to join with the Prime Minister to promote the New Zealand school sector for international education.
“Our schools are seen as world-leading, providing excellent education to students from the Republic of Korea. The education event organised by ENZ and attended by the Prime Minister was a highlight for SIEBA with important connections made with education officials looking to strengthen people-to-people links with schools in New Zealand,” said Mr van der Zwan
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ENZ launches new tool to help students with visa application process
Developed as a resource for both students and education agents, the video guides students through the steps of applying for a visa to study in Aotearoa, New Zealand. The video, now available in English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Thai, offers students helpful tips to increase their chances of a successful visa application outcome.
As we near the October and March period when Immigration New Zealand (INZ) receives its highest volume of visa applications it is important that students not only apply early for their visa but also complete their application properly to ensure it is processed as quickly as possible. INZ recommends that students apply at least three months before their intended travel date to give them the best chance of having their application decided in time.
The visa videos are free to download from Brand Lab and can be used across the marketing channels of individual education providers. The English language version of the video is also publicly available on YouTube and on the Study with New Zealand website.
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SIEBA Launches New Agency Registration Service
SIEBA has launched its new Agency Registration Service to better support education agencies and meet the evolving needs of New Zealand schools. For an annual fee of NZD $150 plus GST, registered education agencies will gain access to services that strengthen their connections with schools and enhance their operations.
Benefits include:
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Reference Checking: Agencies listed on the SIEBA website will have undergone initial reference checks, helping schools feel confident that they align with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 standards.
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Student Placement Service: Agencies can create student listings for individual and group placements, connecting directly with member schools.
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Tailored Resources, Webinars, and Professional Development: Agencies will have access to resources and learning opportunities to help them succeed.
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Networking Opportunities: Agencies will have the opportunity to expand connections with SIEBA member schools through events such as Onshore Marketing Forums.
John van der Zwan, Executive Director for SIEBA, acknowledged the importance of education agents to their members and this service would provide more support and connections for them.
"We have hundreds of members, including lots of smaller schools, who will particularly benefit from building closer relationships with agents", said John.
For more information on the Agency Registration Service, visit www.sieba.nz or email agents@sieba.nz.
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Proposals sought for the New Zealand – China ECE Symposium
This year’s theme is Digital Transformation in Early Childhood Education. We are seeking session proposals from academics, professionals, and practitioners in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) or International Education fields for the fifth New Zealand-China Early Childhood Education Symposium.
Refer to this Call for Proposals document and the event landing page for more information. Be sure to submit your proposal by 13 October 11:59pm NZT.
The last ECE Symposium was held in Nanjing, China in September last year and three New Zealand presenters travelled to present. You can read about this previous event here.
If you have any questions about the upcoming event, please contact china@enz.govt.nz.
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An opportunity for NZ primary schools to grow their international business!
The programme, which starts on Tuesday 15 October, is a new initiative jointly organised by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) and Schools International Education Business Association (SIEBA). Hosted by ENZ’s Mary Camp and SIEBA’s Melissa Heyrick, the series of webinars is open to all New Zealand primary schools, from those seeking Code Signatory status, to those starting out, and those looking for support to grow.
The programme will run from Term 4 into early 2025 and every aspect of managing an international programme for primary schools will be covered – with the focus on Years 1 to 6. Participants will meet experts, be guided through services and resources, get connected to others, and get advice to support success.
The webinars will be interactive and engaging, and content will be shaped as the series progresses depending on the needs and requests shared during the sessions. Mary and Melissa are both former teachers and will provide open, jargon-free sessions that build the confidence of the primary school sector to grow international business that benefits both schools and their communities. There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion.
Following the first session on Tuesday October 15 at 3.30pm there will be two further sessions in 2024 to help schools prepare for Term One 2025. There will be further webinars held throughout 2025.
Register once for the whole series at https://enz.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrd-6urTkpHtQITM1XtbIoTbEOBfBxqGr1
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Sessions will also be recorded with links shared on Intellilab to enable those that missed out to catch up.
E tipu e rea – grow and thrive!
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Viet Nam Market Insights: Opportunities and Challenges for New Zealand's PTEs and ELS Providers
On 29 August, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) held an Insights Accelerator session for representatives from Private Training Establishments (PTEs) and English Language Schools (ELS) across New Zealand. ENZ’s Market Manager - Viet Nam, Van Banh, delivered a presentation that outlined Viet Nam’s current market trends, barriers to student recruitment, and essential tips for providers aiming to strengthen their presence in this dynamic country.
The session had 30 representatives from 20 PTEs attending, demonstrating how New Zealand education providers are recognising the opportunities for growth given the country’s expanding economy and growing middle class. As Van noted " Viet Nam offers significant growth opportunities, but success will require a tailored approach that addresses both the evolving demands of Vietnamese students and the competitive landscape."
The demand for English language skills is particularly high in business, technology, and education, as Vietnam continues its global integration. This makes New Zealand's high-quality ELS programmes attractive.
For PTEs, the country's growing economy requires a workforce with practical, vocational skills, which New Zealand’s providers are well-positioned to offer. Many PTEs and ELS institutions provide pathway programmes that help students transition into higher education or industries with globally recognised qualifications, Vietnamese students are attracted to New Zealand programmes that enhance employability both in Viet Nam and internationally.
Van added that despite these opportunities, there are some challenges.
“Tough competition from other study destinations and the changing preferences of Vietnamese students—away from traditional English and vocational courses—will require providers to adapt and innovate. The country's rapid development and young population present long-term growth potential, but strategic planning and market responsiveness will be key,” said Van.
The slides from the Accelerator Session can be found here. You can also watch a recording of the session here - https://youtu.be/KQE22JV1t2w
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Around the world in five
Australia
The latest Agent Perception Survey from Navitas has demonstrated the impact of policy changes in Australia and Canada on demand and how the countries are viewed, and also shows that students are casting the net wider for higher education options and that demand for alternative destinations is growing.
India
Future of overseas education is set for major transformative shifts, driven by advancements in AI and immersive technologies. AI-led Virtual Reality tours are just one aspect that is set to revolutionise student exploration of overseas campuses.
South Korea
At the same time as leading Western destinations – e.g., Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom – are applying brakes to slow or reverse the expansion of their foreign enrolment, several Asian destinations are doing the opposite: pursuing policies to boost international enrolments to record-high levels. Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, and South Korea have all set ambitious new international enrolment targets.
United Kingdom
The UK government is considering replacing the Secure English Language Test (SELT) with a Home Office-owned testing model as part of an overhaul of the language requirement for student visas.
United States
International applications to US institutions continued to grow in 2024/25, though at a slower pace than in previous years, a new survey published in August 2024 has revealed.
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NZ Education Fair in Bangkok sets record for provider attendance
‘Tis the Season for international education events in Thailand and the increasing numbers of providers and agents is testament to the popularity of New Zealand as a study destination amongst Thai students. The series of events held from 30 August to 2 September included an agent seminar, the Bangkok Education Fair and then mini fairs held in Chiang Mai and Chonburi.
The agent seminar was attended by 108 education agents from 79 companies, including a significant number of new agents. Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao’s (ENZ) Thailand Team delivered a presentation that covered insights into New Zealand’s brand health as a study destination and the current landscape of the Thai student market. Updates were well received, with feedback indicating that the majority of attendees were either satisfied or extremely satisfied with the content and the networking opportunities provided. This positive response underscores the value of agent engagement in Thailand.
Agent one one-on-one meetings with Avondale College.
The Bangkok Education Fair, held on 31 August, saw the largest number of education providers in attendance in ENZ’s history. ENZ’s Market Manager for Thailand, Chortip Pramoolpol said that there were 79 representatives from 60 institutions, including all eight New Zealand universities, 44 schools, vocational institutions, private training establishments, and English language providers.
“The fair attracted 1,460 visitors, offering students and parents an excellent opportunity to connect directly with education providers.
“Prospective students and their families engaged in one-on-one discussions about New Zealand’s academic programs, student life, and pathways to success. The event garnered positive feedback, with 84% of surveyed sector representatives reporting satisfaction or extreme satisfaction with the fair,” said Chortip.
Prospective students talk to Nicki Sephenson about study opportunities at Mountain View High School in Timaru.
At the opening ceremony, New Zealand Ambassador Jonathan Kings presented the Alumni Hall of Fame Awards. These annual awards honour alumni who have achieved notable professional success, gained significant social recognition, and positively contributed to promoting New Zealand as a premier study destination.
New Zealand Ambassador Jonathan King (centre) and the former Interior Minister of Thailand, Purachai Piumsomboon (centre right) with ENZ‘s Jaruwan Pongiaruwat (second from left) and Chortip Pramoolpol (second from right). They are pictured with the Alumni Hall of Fame awardees and KOLs.
ENZ also organised a special seminar featuring three distinguished guests. Purachai Piumsomboon, the former Interior Minister of Thailand, spoke about his experience sending all three of his children to study in New Zealand from primary school through university. Additionally, Peterpan and Lilly Nichapalak, two influential figures with nearly one million followers, shared their personal stories about how studying at New Zealand high schools positively transformed their lives.
In the lead-up to the Bangkok fair, ENZ organised a series of events aimed at expanding outreach to Thai students. From August 27 to 29, ENZ conducted a school roadshow across six schools in Chonburi, delivering information sessions about studying in New Zealand. A notable highlight of the roadshow was a simulated classroom experience hosted by a New Zealand school, allowing Thai students to get a taste of the New Zealand education system firsthand.
Dr. Jane Berry from Avondale College demonstrated NZ simulated classroom for Thai students to easily understand the interactive Periodic Table.
Following the main fair, a mini fair was held on 1 September in Chiang Mai and Chonburi offering another chance for prospective students and parents to interact with New Zealand education providers. The event series concluded with a final visit to two more schools on September 2, also in Chonburi and Chiang Mai. These additional events emphasised ENZ’s commitment to engaging with students beyond the main fair, fostering strong ties with schools, agents, and prospective students in the surrounding Bangkok region.
