Exchange in New Zealand: do students need a visa in 2025?

If you dream of studying in this incredible country, it's critical to understand the visa rules that have changed recently. Find out all about the visa requirements to study in New Zealand and how to secure your approval.

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When do you need a visa to New Zealand

The answer is clear: Yes, you need a visa to study in New Zealand in 2025 if your course lasts longer than 3 months. This rule applies to all types of educational programs, from language courses to graduate studies. For stays shorter than 90 days, Brazilians can enter as tourists but are not allowed to work.

Programs that require a student visa:

• English courses with a duration of more than 12 weeks
• Undergraduate and graduate studies at universities
• Technical and vocational courses
• School exchange programs
• Professional certifications Long-lasting

The New Zealand government has established these rules to ensure that international students have adequate support and contribute positively to the local economy. With the program Study and Work in New Zealand, you can take advantage of all the country's legal advantages.

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Essential requirements for a student visa

To have your application approved, you must meet the following mandatory criteria:

Academic documentation:

• Vacancy offer (Letter of Offer) from a government approved institution
• School transcript translated and apostilled
• Previous diplomas with certified translation

Language proficiency:

• IELTS Academic with a minimum score of 5.5 (may vary by institution)
• TOEFL iBT with at least 46 points
• PTE Academic with a score of 36 or higher

Financial proof:

New Zealand requires proof that you can support yourself while studying. The minimum values are:
With the current exchange rate of NZ$ 1 = R$ 3.38 (29/05/2025)

• Student visa (more than 36 weeks): NZ$ 20,000 per year (R$ 67,600)
• Short term programs: NZ$ 1,667 per month (R$ 5,634 monthly)

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New Zealand Work Permit

One of the great advantages of studying in New Zealand is the legal permission to work. With a student visa, you can:

• Work up to 20 hours a week during the term of office
• Work full time During school holidays
• Earn up to NZ$ 23.50 per hour (minimum wage in 2025)

This opportunity allows you to have a monthly income of approximately NZ$ 1,880 working part-time, which covers a large part of living costs in the country. Many students are able to support themselves financially through part-time work.

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Visa application process

The visa application process must be done online through the official Immigration New Zealand website. Follow these essential steps:

1. Preparation of documentation

• Gather all required documents
• Make certified translations when necessary
• Scan documents in high quality

2. Completing the online application

• Create your account on the official site
• Please fill in all required fields
• Upload the documents

3. Payment of fees

• Application fee: NZ$ 375
• Processing fee: varies by country
• Payment must be made online

4. Monitoring the process

• Average processing time: 15-25 business days
• Track the status through the online account
• Respond quickly if they request additional information

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Advantages of studying in New Zealand

In addition to its unparalleled natural beauty, New Zealand offers unique benefits for international students:

Globally recognized educational quality:

• Education system based on the British model
• Universities among the best in the world
• Internationally recognized diplomas

Safe and welcoming environment:

• One of the safest countries in the world
• Extremely receptive population to foreigners
• Multicultural and diverse environment

Professional opportunities:

• Heated labor market
• Easy to get part-time work
• Possibility to work after graduation

As mentioned in our program Learning a language abroad, full immersion significantly speeds up the learning of English.

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Tips for Visa Approval

To increase your chances of approval, follow these essential recommendations:

Impeccable documentation:

• Organize all documents In advance
• Translate everything correctly by certified translators
• Scan in high quality (Colored PDF)

Demonstrate links with Brazil:

• Prove that you want to return after your studies
• Submit a letter from the employer or college
• Show family and patrimonial ties

Be transparent in the application:

• Please fill in all fields honestly
• Don't omit important information
• Explain any special situation

Prove financial capacity:

• Submit recent bank statements
• Include proof of parents' income
• Demonstrate financial stability

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Cost of living in New Zealand

Understanding costs is critical to your financial planning. See the average monthly expenses:

Housing:

• Shared room: NZ$ 150-250 per week
• Single apartment: NZ$ 300-450 per week
• Homestay: NZ$ 250-350 per week

Food and basic expenses:

• Supermarket: NZ$ 300-400 per month
• Meals out: NZ$ 15-25 per plate
• Public transport: NZ$ 150-200 per month
  
  

Be Easy: your partner for success in New Zealand

A Be Easy is your complete ally to make the dream of studying in New Zealand a reality. Our specialized team offers full support in the visa process, from preparing the documentation to following up on the application. With our experience and knowledge of New Zealand requirements, we ensure that you have all the tools you need for a successful approval. Contact us today and start your journey to the future of your dreams in New Zealand!

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