Immigration New Zealand urges students to apply three months ahead for smooth visa processing

In a latest notification released by Immigration New Zealand on Thursday, the NZ immigration department urged international students to submit their student visa applications at least three months before their intended travel date to avoid delays during the busy application period.

“Applying for your visa at least 3 months before your intended travel date gives you the best chance to have a decision made in time for your study. The processing of student visas is a priority for us, particularly as we get closer to peak times,” the notification read.

Between May and August each year student visa processing in New Zealand is at peak. “Applications take longer to be decided during this peak period, so it is important that you apply early if you want to come to New Zealand to study,” said New Zealand immigration. 

“Due to the high volume of visa applications expected, we will not contact students if documents are missing from their application. If the missing information is key to the assessment, then your application may be declined,” as per the immigration.