New Zealand Moves Student Visa Applications Online and Increases Work Hours

New Zealand Moves Student Visa Applications Online and Increases Work Hours Khelja | 2025-08-19 13:22:50

If you are planning to study in New Zealand later this year, there are two important changes to keep on your radar. Immigration New Zealand has shifted the entire student visa process online and, through its revamped digital platform, Immigration Online (ADEPT).

Starting in November, New Zealand is also easing work limits for international students. Together, these changes reflect a broader shift in how the country is managing both applications and student life.

Here is a complete breakdown of what’s changing in New Zealand’s Visa Application process for international students, when it kicks in, and how it affects your study plans.

Paper Applications Are Being Phased Out

Starting on September 18, 2025, New Zealand will no longer accept paper applications for most types of student visa categories. This includes:

English Language Student Visa
Exchange Student Visa
Fee Paying Student Visa
Pathway Student Visa
New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa
Foreign Government Supported Student Visa

All new applications must now be filed through Immigration Online, also known as ADEPT, which went live on 18 August 2025. The move is part of New Zealand’s wider effort to modernise and streamline visa processing.

Already Applied? Here’s What Happens Next

If you applied for your New Zealand Student Visa using the old online system on or before 17 August, you’re fine. Immigration New Zealand will still process your application, and you can keep uploading documents or responding to their requests until they make a decision.

Got a Draft Application Sitting Unfinished?

If you started an application on the old platform but haven’t submitted it, you’ve got until 17 September 2025 to complete and send it in. After that, all draft applications will be deleted, and you’ll need to start fresh using the new form.

When Will You See the New System?

Since 18 August, Immigration New Zealand has automatically redirected anyone starting a new student visa application to the upgraded form on the new Immigration Online system. They plan to move family visas and other related categories to the new platform over the next year.