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What are the requirements and process for applying for a student visa and permanent residency in countries like New Zealand and Australia?

17 Aug 2026 · Answered by Syeda Uzma · 1 min read
Syeda Uzma
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Applying for a student visa and permanent residency in New Zealand and Australia involves specific steps and requirements.

New Zealand:
- Admission: Unconditional offer from an NZQA-approved institution.
- Funds: Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Health/Character: Medical exam and police clearance.
- Insurance: Health and travel coverage.
- English: IELTS or equivalent, if required.
- Application: Online via Immigration NZ, with typical fee from NZD 850.
- Processing: Usually 6-8 weeks.
- Work Rights: Up to 25 hours/week during study.

Australia:
- Admission: Letter of Offer and CoE from a CRICOS-registered institution.
- Funds: Proof for tuition and living costs (about AUD 29,710/year).
- English: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, if required.
- Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Health/Character: Medical and police checks.
- GTE Statement: Explains your study and post-study plans.
- Application: Online via ImmiAccount.
- Processing: Varies; apply at least 3 months in advance.
- Work Rights: Up to 25 hours/week during study.

Permanent Residency Pathways:
- New Zealand: Post-Study Work Visa, then Skilled Migrant Category (points-based).
- Australia: Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), then skilled migration (Subclass 189/190) or employer-sponsored PR.

Visa and PR rules are subject to change.

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