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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Yes. We assist with partner & dependent child visas, ensuring strong evidence of your relationship and finances so your family can join you in NZ.
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.
No one can guarantee approval—only INZ decides.
But we maximise your chances with professional, compliant, and evidence-based applications.
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.
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:
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.