Tips
Career projects abroad

Documents for a New Zealand student visa in 2025

written by
Natasha Machado
10/7/2025
Read in
5 min
Share this tip

Do you dream of studying in New Zealand but are lost with so many documents needed for a visa? New Zealand stands out as one of the most sought after exchange destinations, combining world-class education with stunning landscapes and a welcoming environment. Preparing the correct documentation is the first step in turning your dream of studying in this incredible country into reality.

Why study in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a unique educational experience, with a globally recognized education system and excellent cost-benefit ratio. With the program Study and Work in New Zealand, you can combine studies with professional experience, working up to 20 hours a week during the course.

Key benefits of studying in New Zealand:

  • Globally recognized high-quality education
  • Safe and multicultural environment
  • Possibility to work while studying
  • Incomparable natural landscapes
  • Pathway to permanent residence

Required documents for a student visa

Letter of Offer

The most important document Your request is a letter of acceptance from an educational institution approved by the New Zealand government. This document must contain:

  • Full name of the course
  • Exact program duration
  • Start and end dates
  • Total amount of monthly fees
  • Attendance requirements

Be Easy tip: Choose courses with a minimum duration of 14 weeks to be eligible for a 20-hour work permit per week.

Financial proof

To demonstrate that you have sufficient resources, you will need to present at least NZ$ 20,000 per year of study. Accepted documentation includes:

Bank statements:

  • Last 6 months of movement
  • Current available balance
  • Parental income statement (if applicable)

Accepted alternatives:

  • Official Scholarship Letter
  • Sponsorship declaration
  • Fixed deposit certificates

Identity documents

Valid passport for at least 3 months after the expected date of departure from New Zealand, with:

  • Scanned identification pages
  • Sufficient validity for the entire period of study
  • At least two blank pages for stamps

Additional documents for Brazilians:

  • Updated ID or CNH
  • CPF (when necessary)
  • Birth certificate (for minors)

Medical exams and certificates

Mandatory health exams

For courses with a duration greater than 6 months, you must perform:

Complete medical examination:

  • Consultation with an accredited doctor
  • Chest X-ray
  • Specific blood tests
  • Updated vaccination

List of accredited doctors is available on the official website of Immigration New Zealand.

Certificate of good conduct

For programs with a duration longer than 24 months, it is necessary to submit:

  • Criminal record certificate of the Federal Police
  • Certified translation into English
  • Apostille at the competent registry office
  • Maximum validity of 6 months

Process for Brazilians:

  1. Apply online on the Federal Police website
  2. Pay the R$ 95.31 fee
  3. Wait for issuance (average period of 15 business days)
  4. Provide translation and apostille

Proof of English proficiency

Accepted exams and minimum scores

Exame Pontuação Mínima Validade
IELTS Academic 5.5 geral (5.0 em cada habilidade) 2 anos
TOEFL iBT 46 pontos 2 anos
PTE Academic 42 pontos 2 anos
Cambridge English 162 pontos (B2 First) Sem expiração

English exam exemptions:

  • Citizens of English-speaking countries
  • Previous studies completed in English
  • Specific English as a Second Language courses

Fees and application process

Required investment

A official visa fee It is approximately NZ$ 375, pays exclusively online through the Immigration New Zealand website. Additional costs include:

  • Medical exams: NZ$ 300-500
  • Police certificate: R$ 95.31 + translation
  • Proficiency test: R$ 800-1,200

Recommended Timeline

Optimal schedule for application:

  1. 3-4 months before: Start document preparation
  2. 2-3 months before: Take medical and English exams
  3. 8-12 weeks before: Submit online application
  4. 4-6 weeks: Average processing time
  5. 2 weeks before: Finalize travel arrangements

Periods of highest demand:

  • January to March (semester 1)
  • July to August (semester 2)

Specific documents for minors

Additional requirements

For students under 18 years old, extra documents include:

Authorization of those responsible:

  • Parental Consent Letter
  • Identity documents of those responsible
  • Proof of family connection

Adequate accommodation:

  • Homestay confirmation approved
  • Accredited student residence
  • Local guardian designation (when necessary)

Important tips for Brazilians

Translation and apostille

All documents in Portuguese they must be translated by a certified translator and apostilled according to the Hague Convention:

  1. Certified translation by accredited professional
  2. Apostille at the competent registry office
  3. Digitalization in high quality (PDF)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Expired documents: Check the validity of all certificates
  • Inconsistent information: Keep data consistent across all documents
  • Last-minute application: Start the process in advance
  • Incomplete documentation: Check the official list before submitting

Differences by type of course

Language courses vs. higher education

For courses of Learn a language abroad:

  • More flexible English requirements
  • Simplified financial documentation
  • More agile process

For programs of University abroad:

  • Specific academic requirements
  • More robust financial proof
  • Additional documentation from the previous course

Be Easy

Na Be Easy, we understand that the visa process may seem complex, but we're here to simplify every step of your journey. Our specialized team offers full support in document preparation, guidance on specific requirements, and follow-up throughout the application process. With our experience in exchanges for New Zealand, we ensure that you have all the information you need for a successful application. Contact us today and start planning your educational experience in New Zealand with complete peace of mind and security!

Share this tip
Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy