On August 18, 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) moved international student visa applications to its enhanced Immigration Online system.
INZ has redesigned the student visa application process to make it more efficient and effective. Within the form, applicants will be supported with guidance to help them answer the questions accurately.
The new application form is dynamic, which means applicants will only need to answer questions relevant to their specific situation. The form itself may take slightly longer to complete than the previous form as there are more questions and evidence prompts. However, by collecting the additional information up front, rather than having to contact the applicant and request it, INZ expects to make decisions on visa applications faster.
Applicants will also receive email notifications and real-time status updates within their dashboard, giving applicants and their advisers more visibility of the applications progress and clarity around any action they need to take.
As part of the work to transition international student visas to enhanced Immigration Online, INZ is removing paper-based applications for the following visa types:
- English Language Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
- NZ Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa.
From September 18, 2025 onwards, applicants must apply for these visas using the online application form.
Transition Period
From August 18, 2025, new applications are being automatically directed to the new application form.
All applications submitted on the old application form on or before August 17, 2025 are being processed. Those who have a draft application on the old application form have until September 17, 2025 to complete and submit it, or can choose to start a new application on the new application form. After September 17, 2025, all remaining draft applications on the old form will be deleted and these applicants will have to start a new application on the new form.
Student Visa Reporting
While INZ is working on reporting for applications submitted in the new system, the existing reporting system will continue. However, it will only include information on visa applications submitted through the original Immigration Online application system.
This means that, for a short time, the website timeliness reporting will not contain information for all applications.
Student Visa Peak
The peak period for student visa applications is from October to the end of February.
Applicants should aim to apply three months ahead of their intended travel date as this will help to avoid delays that may impact their ability to start studying.
INZ may approve in principle (AIP) applications from students offshore who are applying for their visas very early (for example six months or more ahead of their study period) subject to confirmation of funds and confirmation of study being provided to us at a date closer to the student’s travel period.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.