How much money do I need to prove to study in New Zealand in 2025?
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Planning an exchange in New Zealand involves much more than choosing a school and packing your bags. Financial proof is one of the fundamental pillars for obtaining a student visa, and many Brazilians are lost with the necessary amounts and documents.
The good news is that starting in November 2025, students will be able to work up to 25 hours a week during classes, making it even easier to support themselves in the country. But before you get there, you need to prove that you have enough resources to support yourself.
Official amounts for financial proof
The New Zealand government establishes minimum values that vary depending on the type and duration of studies. (quotation for 17/09/2025):
For tertiary studies, English courses and other non-compulsory modalities
- NZD $20,000 (R$ 63,400) per year for courses of 1 year or more
- NZD $1,667 (R$ 5,284) per month for studies shorter than 1 year
These amounts cover basic expenses such as food, transportation, school supplies, and personal expenses. An important tip: if you have already paid for accommodation in advance (such as a homestay through the school), this amount can be deducted from the required amount.
As shown in our article about cost of living in Auckland, having a realistic view of expenses helps a lot in financial planning.
Proof of return ticket
Something that catches a lot of people off guard: you have to prove that you can leave the country. This can be done in two ways:
- Ticket already purchased: Fully paid return ticket
- Extra money: Enough additional money to buy the ticket
This requirement makes sense from an immigration perspective. They want to ensure that you will not become illegal in the country for lack of resources to return.
Special care for pregnant women
If you are pregnant, you need NZD $9,000 (R$ 28,530) extras to cover medical and maternity care. In some specific cases, there may be public coverage, but it is better to have your own resources.
Smart Financing Options
You don't have to have all the money sitting in the account. There are several accepted alternatives:
1. Own resources
- Money in your checking or savings account
- Fixed deposit certificates (held for at least 3 months)
- Retirement funds that can be withdrawn
2. Sponsors in Brazil
An individual may be responsible for their costs, but they must be:
- New Zealand citizen or resident
- Family member or close friend
- Able to prove sufficient resources
3. Financial support from third parties
Relatives or organizations from outside New Zealand can assume financial responsibility through the specific form (Financial Undertaking for a Student).
Our story about Work part-time during an exchange shows how extra income can help with the monthly budget.
Documents required for proof
Primary evidence (always mandatory):
- Bank statements for the last 3 months with the holder's name
- Certificates of deposits held for at least 3 months
- Scholarship award letter
- Education Loan Release Letter
- Proof of pension funds
Secondary evidence (when requested):
If there are large deposits (above NZD $2,000 - R$ 6,340) or many small ones, you need to explain the origin:
- Most recent income tax return
- Recent paychecks
- Letter from the employer confirming salary
- Business registration documents
- Corporate tax return
- Proof of property and income
Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS): a secure option
The FTS is an official New Zealand government program, operated by ANZ Bank, specifically for students from Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
This system allows you to securely transfer the necessary resources. In some cases, you may be required to use the FTS as proof of access to funds.
Important: Using the FTS does not guarantee visa approval. It's just a way to highlight resources.
Practical tips for organizing your documentation
1. Plan ahead
Start organizing documents at least 4 months before the application. Some deposit certificates need to be “standing” for 3 months.
2. Keep accounts moving normally
Avoid making large last-minute deposits. Regular movement demonstrates the legitimacy of resources.
3. Translate essential documents
Get English versions of the main receipts, made by a certified translator.
4. Organize by categories
Separate documents by type: own resources, sponsorship, loans, etc. This makes it easier for the officer to review.
As detailed in the article about New Zealand student visa, proper preparation is critical to success.
Important changes starting in November 2025
The great news is that students will be able to work 25 hours a week during the academic period. This represents significant flexibility, allowing for greater financial sustainability.
This change aligns with the job opportunities in high demand in the country, especially in sectors such as hospitality, agriculture and technology.
How to calculate your total resources
Let's go to one instance practical for a 6-month English course:
Compulsory proof:
- Studies: NZD $1,667 (R$ 5,284) x 6 = NZD $10,002 (R$ 31,706)
- Return ticket: NZD $2,000 (R$ 6,340) (estimate)
- Minimum total: NZD $12,002 (R$ 38.046)
Recommendation from Be Easy: Add 20% to 30% beyond the minimum. This demonstrates planning and increases chances of approval, in addition to providing more financial peace of mind.
Errors that could compromise your application
1. Outdated documents
Statements and receipts cannot be older than 3 months.
2. Insufficient values
Many candidates only calculate the base amount, forgetting about extras such as a ticket and emergencies.
3. Inconsistent bank history
Very different movements from the standard or large deposits without explanation raise questions.
4. Incomplete third-party documentation
If someone is going to sponsor you, that person's documentation needs to be impeccable.
Be Easy: count on those who understand the subject
Be Easy has consolidated experience in visa processes for New Zealand. Our expert advisors accompany each stage, from financial planning to arrival in the country.
Do you want to know more about our study and work programs in New Zealand? Contact us and discover how we can turn your project into reality.
