New Zealand is rolling out several important updates to its student visa system for 2026. These changes are designed to clarify visa processing, strengthen eligibility requirements, and give international students more flexibility. If you’re planning to study there, it’s essential to know what’s changing.
1. Apply Earlier, Especially During Peak Season
The busiest visa application window runs from October through March. To avoid delays, prospective students should submit their visa applications well in advance—ideally three‐to‐six months before travel. Applying early gives more lead time for arranging tuition, funding, and confirmations.
2. Move to the New Online System
From August 18, 2025, New Zealand’s Immigration body has shifted many student visa categories into its upgraded “Immigration Online” platform. This includes visas for language courses, exchange programs, scholarship recipients, and pathway student visas. If you began an application under the old system, there’s a deadline—any draft left incomplete by mid-September will expire, meaning you’ll need to start again using the new system.
3. Clearer Guidance on What Visa Applicants Must Provide
Visa applicants will have access to more detailed instructions around proof of funds, demonstrating genuine intent to study, and showing you’ll leave New Zealand when your studies are over. Country-specific examples will help clarify expectations. The older informational sheets have been retired so applicants should follow the new documentation requirements very closely.
4. Tighter Rules for Pathway Student Visas
Pathway Student Visas will now require stronger and more precise evidence. Applicants must be enrolled in eligible courses with approved institutions and provide valid offers of admission or equivalent confirmation. Applications missing these details are likely to be refused.
5. Increased Work Hours During Study Terms
Starting November 3, 2025, many student visa holders will be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term, up from the previous cap of 20 hours. This gives students more opportunity to support themselves while studying.
Planning to study abroad? RoutePal helps with school admissions, study visas, accommodation, and travel arrangements. Whatever updates come to immigration policies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.