If you are planning to study in New Zealand in 2025, there are two major changes you should know. Immigration New Zealand has shifted the entire student visa process online through its upgraded digital platform, Immigration Online (ADEPT). In addition, international students will now enjoy extended work rights, allowing them more flexibility during their studies.
These updates reflect New Zealand’s efforts to modernize its visa system and improve the experience of foreign students. Below is a detailed guide to what is changing, when it takes effect, and how it will affect your study plans.
Paper Applications Are Being Phased Out
Starting September 18, 2025, New Zealand will stop accepting paper-based applications for several student visa categories, including:
- English Language Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
- New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Fee-Paying Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
All applications must now be submitted via the new Immigration Online platform (ADEPT), which officially went live on August 18, 2025. This move is part of New Zealand’s broader plan to simplify and speed up visa processing.
Already Applied? What You Need to Know
If you submitted your student visa application on or before August 17, 2025, through the old system, you are unaffected. Immigration New Zealand will continue to process your application and allow you to upload documents or respond to requests until a decision is made.
Unfinished Applications on the Old Platform
If you started but did not submit an application on the old platform, you must complete and submit it by September 17, 2025. After this date, all drafts will be deleted, requiring applicants to begin again using the new system.
Switch to the New Immigration Online System
From August 18 onward, anyone starting a new student visa application is automatically redirected to the new Immigration Online system. Over the next year, New Zealand plans to move additional categories, including family visas, onto the same platform.
Extended Work Hours for International Students
Another major change affects work hours. From November 2025, eligible international students can work up to 25 hours per week during study terms, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. This expanded work right applies to:
- All tertiary students
- Students on approved exchange programs
- Short-term placements such as one-semester study abroad programs
What This Means for Students
For those planning to study in New Zealand:
- Prepare for more flexibility in working hours beginning November 2025.
- Use only the new online application forms for student visas.
- Submit unfinished applications on the old system by September 17, 2025.
The shift to online-only applications may feel like a big change, but it promises faster processing and a more transparent system. Combined with extended work hours, these modifications will make studying in New Zealand more accessible and rewarding.
Conclusion
If you are planning to study in New Zealand, ensure you use the new Immigration Online system and keep track of important deadlines. With simplified visa processing and increased work opportunities, these updates create a more supportive environment for international students in 2025 and beyond.
FAQ
When will New Zealand stop accepting paper student visa applications?
New Zealand will phase out paper student visa applications on September 18, 2025. After this date, all applications must be made online.
What happens if I already submitted my visa application through the old system?
If you applied on or before August 17, 2025, Immigration New Zealand will continue processing your application without issue.
Can I still submit an unfinished draft in the old system?
Yes, but only until September 17, 2025. After that, all unfinished drafts will be deleted, and you must apply again using the new online system.
How many hours can international students work under the new rules?
From November 2025, international students can work up to 25 hours per week during study periods, up from the previous 20-hour limit.