Post the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand has decided to re-open the borders completely for international students. The opening date for the student visa has been brought forward to 31st July 2022 (midnight) from October 2022. Meeting some vital conditions will help in the easy approval of a student visa.
What the Plan of Immigration Rebalance is all about?
Immigration rebalance refers to a plan implemented by the Government of New Zealand to ensure economic recovery post the hitting of the pandemic. It is all about giving a boost to the working conditions, bringing improvement to the pathway of career for New Zealanders, and encouraging businesses to increase productivity.
The re-opening of the border along with some changes may affect the migrant's desire to study in New Zealand. Some new settings have impacted the post-study work rights and cost of living expenses for international students.
Post-study Work Rights for Students
Changes have been made to post-study work visa rights. They will apply to all student visa applications lodged on or after 11 May 2022 not covered by transitional agreements, including applications from people already in New Zealand.
Students enrolled in non-degree programmes (Level 7 & below excluding Bachelor’s degree) will not get post-study work rights except in shortage and skilled occupations.
Work privileges for degree-level and other eligible international students will now be equivalent to the duration of their study.
Additionally, students will not be able to apply for a second post-study visa in New Zealand.
In-study work rights for international students have not been changed.
What about Master's and Doctoral Students?
International students enrolled in master's and doctoral courses will be able to work in New Zealand for a period of a maximum of three years following graduation as long as they have spent 30 weeks of full-time study.
What about the Changes in Living Costs for International Students?
The cost of living is another vital factor that has changed. From July 2022, prospective tertiary student visa applicants must be in a position to show a minimum of $20,000 annually. In the case of prospective international school students, the cost has increased to $17,000.
They need to submit proof regarding their ability to cover the cost, failing to do so may lead to rejection of the application. Based on the eligibility, those students will be able to apply for an accredited employer work visa.
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