 As of 18 August 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced a new online-only student visa application system. This impacts how you apply, how long it takes, and how soon you can start studying in New Zealand.
From 18 September 2025, INZ has also retired the old paper-based student visa forms—meaning if you haven’t submitted your application by then using the old system, you’ll need to start again from scratch using the new digital form. Key changes international students need to know:
The updated form is more detailed and customises your questions based on your situation. While it may take longer to complete, it reduces back-and-forth with immigration officers—and aims for faster decisions. Visa types affected: You must now apply online if you're applying for any of the following:
What this means for you:
Frequently Asked Questions: Q - What changed in the New Zealand student visa system in 2025? A - INZ launched a new dynamic online student visa form in August 2025. Paper applications were phased out from 18 September. Q - Can I still use a paper form for a student visa in NZ? A - No. From 18 September 2025, only online applications are accepted for most student visa types. Q - What happens if I didn’t finish my student visa draft before 17 September 2025? A - Your draft was deleted. You’ll need to start a new application using the new Immigration Online form. Q - Why is New Zealand changing the student visa form? A - To improve processing efficiency, reduce follow-up requests, and speed up decision-making. Q - Is the new student visa form faster to process? A - It’s longer to complete upfront, but aims to reduce delays by requesting all required documents at once. Need expert help with your student visa? Click here
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From 8 December 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will open applications for two new seasonal visa options under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework: the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV). These visas are designed to make it easier for accredited employers to hire for genuine seasonal roles, while maintaining checks to prevent misuse. Most of their conditions are similar to the standard AEWV, and any change in job conditions will require a Job Change application. Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)This visa applies to roles that are genuinely seasonal and meet specific criteria:
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)This visa is designed for short peak-period roles and has its own set of requirements:
What Applicants Need to PrepareApplicants must provide clear and complete evidence that they meet the requirements for their chosen seasonal visa.
Why These Changes MatterThese new visa options support industries that rely on seasonal labour while ensuring the integrity of the immigration system. The GWSV allows accredited employers to recruit experienced international workers for ongoing seasonal needs, while the PSV addresses short-term peaks in demand. Final ThoughtsFrom 8 December 2025, seasonal work opportunities in New Zealand will expand under these new visa categories. Applicants and employers should review the eligibility criteria carefully and ensure all required documents are ready before applying. Source: Immigration New Zealand – New Seasonal Visas Open 8 December 2025 Looking for Expert Help?Check out our New Zealand immigration services and explore our successful case stories to see how we’ve helped others navigate the process. About Immigration TrustImmigration Trust is a team of professionals dedicated to providing clear, reliable information for navigating New Zealand’s immigration system. Our CEO, Simon Park, brings extensive expertise in New Zealand immigration law, policy, and best practices, supporting individuals and families in their journey to settle in New Zealand. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has concluded a major investigation into a visa fraud operation run by 59-year-old Umesh Patel, who has been sentenced to nine months of home detention and six months of post-detention conditions. Patel admitted to multiple charges of forgery and providing false information after creating fake job offers and fraudulent documents to support visa applications.
Patel’s scheme involved migrants paying between $10,000 and $30,000 for fabricated employment arrangements. He used company accounts to circulate funds, creating the illusion of genuine wages to mislead INZ and secure visa approvals. INZ called the scheme “calculated and exploitative,” and confirmed that the immigration status of those involved is now being reviewed. This case serves as a strong reminder for migrants: do not fall for fake job offers or anyone promising visas through fraudulent documents. If you need help relocating to New Zealand, check our services and speak with our licensed immigration adviser for genuine, trusted guidance on your visa application. Source: Immigration New Zealand – Sentencing in Major Immigration Fraud Investigation |
