Institutions Fear NZ Visa Process May Draw Uncertainty Among Int’l Students

Tertiary institutions are concerned that a halt in the processing of most temporary visas in New Zealand would reduce the number of international students allowed into the country this year.

Because visas are on hold until August, New Zealand universities and colleges are concerned that the border opening to foreign nationals in April will have minimal impact on international student mobility.

Key Takeaways:

• Tertiary institutions in New Zealand are concerned that a delay in the processing of most temporary visas may limit the number of overseas students who can attend.
• Universities and institutions in New Zealand are afraid that the opening of the border to foreign nationals in April would have only a little impact on international student mobility.
• International university students who plan to begin, continue, or complete their courses in person after April 30 must know when they will be able to enter.

While the government has said that a phased reopening of the border to fully vaccinated foreign residents will begin on April 30, international university students who intend to start, continue, or finish their courses in person must know when they will be able to enter after April 30.

To date, 1,550 international university students have been granted border exemptions; however, the majority of Aotearoa New Zealand’s current and prospective international students remain stranded.

Rumbling calls for lengthier student visas are also imminent, with some PhD students allegedly concerned about wasting time and money on extensions.

Most international students in New Zealand are only granted a visa for their first year at the university, which is usually the period when tuition is paid. After this period has elapsed, the student must apply for a renewal for the next period of study.

The goal of the visa renewal is for Immigration New Zealand to ensure that students continue to meet the criteria of their visa. Requirements include good health, proof of financial assistance, and tuition payments.

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