New Zealand Eases Student Visa Rules for Indian Applicants in 2025

International students looking to study in New Zealand just got a major boost. From now on, Indian qualifications are officially included in New Zealand’s “List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment.”

This means Indian degrees and certificates no longer need extra evaluation, cutting down both time and paperwork for student visa applicants.

Here’s what international students, especially Indians, should know about the updated study visa process, work rules, and application timelines.

Visa Options for Studying in New Zealand

New Zealand offers different visas for international students, and each comes with specific rules. Common options include:

• Student Visa: For full-time studies at universities, colleges, or schools.
• Pathway Student Visa: Let students take up to three courses in succession.
• Working Holiday Visa: Available to young people (18–30), allowing short-term study and work while travelling.

Each visa comes with conditions about studying, working hours, and travel flexibility.

Online Application Process

Since 18 August 2025, student visa applications have been handled through Immigration New Zealand’s improved Immigration Online system. The new form includes built-in guidance to reduce mistakes and speed up decisions.

• Applications made with the old form before 17 August 2025 will still be processed.
• Draft applications in the old system can be submitted until 17 September 2025.
• New applicants should start fresh with the updated form.

When to Apply for a Student Visa

The demand for New Zealand’s students surges twice a year, from November to March and from May to August, as students rush to secure places ahead of the academic year or mid-term intakes

• November to March (start of the academic year)
• May to August (mid-year intakes and extensions)

To avoid delays, students should apply at least three months before their travel date.

Changing Course or Education Provider

If students want to switch courses or institutions, they must either apply for a variation of conditions or get a new visa.

For those holding a Pathway Student Visa, changing education providers requires a fresh student visa application.

Work Rights During Studies

Currently, most student visas allow 20 hours of work per week during the semester. But from 3 November 2025, the limit will rise to 25 hours weekly for eligible tertiary and secondary school students.

Key details:

• The 25-hour rule applies to all new visas approved from 3 November, even if submitted earlier.
• Students with visas capped at 20 hours must apply for a variation of conditions to work the extra 5 hours.
• Without applying, their limit remains at 20 hours.

Staying in New Zealand After Graduation

Students who complete their studies may qualify for a Post Study Work Visa, which allows them to stay on and work in New Zealand. The duration and conditions depend on the qualification and where it was earned.

What This Means for Students

For Indian students, the exemption from qualification assessment makes the application process smoother and less stressful. With clearer online forms, longer work hours during study, and post-study opportunities, New Zealand continues to position itself as an attractive destination for international education.