New student visa border exception

New border exception for some returning international tertiary students: From 2021, the Government has approved an exception class for 1,000 international tertiary students.

To be eligible, students must be - studying for a bachelor's degree or above, hold or have held a visa to study in 2020, - have studied in New Zealand in 2019 or 2020 toward their current qualification, - be returning to study with their current provider and - need to be in country to complete study.

The living expenses that are required for international students to be granted a visa are now raised to $20,000 (from $15 ,000). Students are also required to show that they can cover isolation costs and the cost of a return ticket in addition to the $20 000.

Partners and dependents of nominated students may be included in applications, in line with current visa requirements.

The exception will allow students to return to New Zealand in stages from April 2021. Priority will be given to those close to finishing their qualifications.

Have questions? Get in touch.

stewart@dslaw.nz
021 254 7570

pooja@dslaw.nz
029 122 5070