Arch Immigration

Student Visa

At Arch Immigration, we’ve personally experienced the international student journey in New Zealand — so we know exactly what challenges and opportunities lie ahead. That insight shapes how we guide you today.

At Arch Immigration, we’ve personally experienced the international student journey in New Zealand — so we know exactly what challenges and opportunities lie ahead. That insight shapes how we guide you today.

Why Choose Us

Experts With Proven Success

With years of expertise, Arch Immigration ensures your student journey to New Zealand is seamless and successful. We focus on personalized strategies to deliver the results that matter.

Take the right first step toward your study journey in New Zealand.

Services Overview

Student Visa Assistance

  • We guide students in selecting top universities and courses across New Zealand.
  • Our experts ensure your New Zealand student visa application meets all requirements for success.

Work Visa Solutions

  • We offer personalized support for work visa applications in New Zealand.
  • Our team matches job seekers with New Zealand employers while handling all visa documentation.

Permanent Residency Consultation

  • We provide step-by-step guidance for acquiring permanent residency based on New Zealand eligibility.
  • Our advisors simplify New Zealand PR processes, increasing your approval chances.
  • We assist with family reunification, ensuring smooth spouse or dependent visa applications.
  • Our experts handle all paperwork, compliance, and follow-ups efficiently.

Still Have Questions?

1. How long does the visa process take?

Immigration New Zealand usually processes applications within 4–6 weeks, but timeframes vary based on:
Application completeness & accuracy.
Requests for more information.
Seasonal demand (Feb & July intakes).
Tip: Start your visa process 3–4 months before your course begins.

2. What documents are required for a student visa?

Common requirements include:
Offer of Place (NZQA-approved institution).
Tuition fee receipt or scholarship letter.
Proof of funds (bank statements, loan, FTS).
Valid passport.
Medical/Chest X-ray (if required).
Police certificate (if required).
Genuine Intent Statement.
Travel insurance (recommended).
We provide a tailored checklist and check every document before lodgement.

3. Can you help with visa rejections or appeals?

Yes. We assist with refusals, delays, and INZ challenges. We can:
Review refusal letters and address INZ concerns.
Prepare stronger re-applications.
Respond to RFIs or PPI letters.
Advise on appeal options.
Because Chanchal & Bipul were once students too, we understand the stress of rejections—and know how to turn things around.

4. Do you provide job assistance for work visa applicants?

Yes. While we’re not recruiters, we:
Guide you to in-demand industries and roles.
Help with NZ-style CVs & cover letters.
Connect you with Accredited Employers.
Check your job offer meets INZ standards.
Our background in education plus employment gives you a real edge.

5. Can I work while I study in New Zealand?

Yes, you can work while you are studying.
20 hours/week during term time (increasing to 25 hours from Nov 2025).
Full-time during scheduled breaks.
Part-time work helps with living expenses, local experience, and building career networks.

6. What are the minimum fund requirements?

INZ requires proof of:
NZ$20,000 per year (NZ$1,667/month) for living costs.
Tuition fees paid (or loan/FTS).
Funds that are genuine, traceable, and available.
We guide you on presenting financial evidence clearly (bank statements, FTS, sponsorships).

7. Do you help with dependent or partner visas?

Yes. We assist with partner & dependent child visas, ensuring strong evidence of your relationship and finances so your family can join you in NZ.

8. What happens after I finish my studies?

You may qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa (1–3 years).
With skilled work, you could then move into residency pathways (Skilled Migrant, Green List).
We guide you at every step.

9. Can you guarantee my visa approval?

No one can guarantee approval—only INZ decides.
But we maximise your chances with professional, compliant, and evidence-based applications.

10. Why should I use a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA)?

Licensed Immigration Advisers:
Have expert knowledge of NZ immigration law.
Avoid errors that cause delays or refusals.
Present your case strongly to INZ.
Provide peace of mind—protected by law (IAA Act 2007).
Many DIY applications fail due to missing documents. With us, you get trusted experts who’ve walked the student journey themselves.

11. Will the new Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) changes affect me as an international student?

Yes — and in a very positive way. From August 2026, New Zealand is updating the Skilled Migrant Category to make the study-to-residence pathway clearer and more achievable for international students.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • More points for NZ qualifications: Studying in New Zealand will carry more weight in the points system, helping you reach the 6-point requirement for residence faster.
  • Work experience requirement reduced: In many cases, you’ll need less NZ work experience than before to qualify.
  • Two new residence pathways:
    • Skilled Work Experience Pathway: For skilled workers with 5+ years of experience (including 2 years in NZ).
    • Trades & Technician Pathway: For trade/technical roles with a Level 4+ qualification and 4 years of experience (including 18 months in NZ).

Important: To claim points for a postgraduate degree, you must also hold an undergraduate degree.

How the 6-point system will work (from August 2026):

Points

Example

NZ Work Needed

6

PhD, NZ Master’s, job ≥3× median wage

0 years

5

NZ Bachelor’s, Honours, PGDip, or overseas Master’s

 1 year

4

Overseas Bachelor’s/Honours, job ≥2× median wage

1.5 years

3

Bachelor’s + skilled job ≥1.5× median wage

2 years

What this means for you:
Studying in New Zealand is now one of the most strategic ways to achieve permanent residency. By choosing the right qualification and planning your work experience carefully, you can meet the 6-point threshold and become eligible for residence more quickly.

Tip: You will still need a skilled job offer (and meet standard health, character, and English requirements) to apply for residence.

Next step: Talk to us at Arch Immigration before you choose your course. We’ll help you design a personalised study-to-residence plan so you make every decision count.

Ready to start your New Zealand
study journey?

Contact Arch Immigration Today and let’s prepare your visa with
confidence.