From September 18, 2025, New Zealand will no longer accept paper applications for student visas. Instead, all applications must be submitted through the improved Immigration Online system, known as ADEPT.
This change makes the visa process faster, more transparent, and easier to manage for students from around the world.
Which Student Visas Are Affected?
Starting August 18, 2025, applicants for the following visas must use the new online forms:
- 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
Paper applications will not be accepted after September 17, 2025.
If you already submitted your application before August 17, don’t worry—it will still be processed. However, if you started an application but didn’t complete it, you must submit it before the September 17 deadline. Otherwise, you will need to begin again in ADEPT.
How the ADEPT System Helps Students
The ADEPT platform offers several benefits, such as:
- Faster processing times
- Simple online forms
- Easy document uploads
- A clear, step-by-step process
By switching fully to digital, New Zealand is following global best practices. This update also reduces delays and makes the visa process more user-friendly.
More Work Rights for International Students
The government is not only improving the application process but also expanding work rights. From November 2025, international students on eligible visas can work up to 25 hours per week during study periods. Previously, the limit was 20 hours.
This change also applies to students on short-term exchange and study abroad programs. As a result, students will have more financial flexibility and better opportunities to gain work experience.
Degree Recognition from Key Countries
To make applications even easier, New Zealand has simplified visa requirements for students from certain countries. Degrees from India, Germany, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Singapore, and Sri Lanka no longer need extra assessments.
This update will speed up approvals and encourage more students from these countries to choose New Zealand.
Rising Demand for New Zealand Education
Student enrollments are increasing again after the pandemic. In 2024, New Zealand hosted 83,425 international students, which is about 72% of the 2019 total.
With a world-class education system, safe environment, and student-friendly policies, New Zealand is becoming an even stronger destination for global learners.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates create big advantages for international students:
- Faster and simpler visa approvals
- A modern online process instead of paperwork
- More weekly work hours to support living costs
- Fewer hurdles for students from selected countries
Together, these improvements show New Zealand’s commitment to welcoming more international students and strengthening its education sector.
Final Thoughts
The move to digital-only student visa applications is a milestone for New Zealand. With the launch of ADEPT, along with expanded work rights and easier recognition of foreign degrees, the country is becoming one of the most attractive study destinations worldwide.
If you plan to study in New Zealand after September 2025, be ready to apply online and take advantage of these new opportunities.