Immigration & Visas

Application, Immigration & Arrival:

• Authorised Agents
• Apply Now - International Student Application
• Immigration & Visas
• International Fees & Costs
• Arriving in NZ

 

Meet Our Students:

Lakhwinder Singh - India:
"It does take some time for the paperwork to go through Immigration. I was very impressed with the service I got from the Polytechnic." Read more

Visas & Permits

Visa: Allows you to travel to a country
Permit: Once you reach the country you get a permit to remain in the country

Types of Visas/Permits

Visitors permit:

• You may study for up to three months without a student permit.
• If you wish to study longer you must change to a student permit.

Working Holiday Visa:

• You may study for up to three months without a student permit.
• If you wish to study longer you will need to talk to the NZ Immigration Service (NZIS), as there may be special restrictions.

Student Visa/Permit:

• This allows you to study a specified course full-time at a specified school.
• If you change course or school you need to apply for a new permit.

It is not difficult to extend your permit once in NZ, talk to the International Coordinator. You need to pay your tuition fees before getting a new permit. If you get a new permit, it must be sighted by the International Coordinator.

You need to allow up to three (3) months for a visa to be processed. Visit New Zealand Immigration for further details: www.immigration.govt.nz

Expired Permit

If you forget to renew your permit, you may be asked to leave the country.

Police Conviction

If you are arrested and convicted of an offence, the NZ Immigration Service may revoke your permit and ask you to leave.

Attendance

If you are not attending class, Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is required by law to advise NZIS and you risk being deported.

Please note that this is an unofficial summary of immigration legislation and, while we believe it is correct, you should check with the NZIS for further detail. Website: www.immigration.govt.nz.

Applying for a Permit

It is your responsibility to ensure you have an up-to-date permit in your passport at all times. Students studying a programme over 12 weeks in length are required by the New Zealand Immigration Service to have a current permit in their passport.

You can renew your permit at the Hamilton branch of the New Zealand Immigration Service on the Level 5 Westpac House, 430 Corner Victoria & Alma Streets, Hamilton or Private Bag 3013, Hamilton.

• Application forms are available online at www.immigration.govt.nz.
   
• Application forms are available at your local Immigration branch.
   
• Call ++64 9 914 4100 and ask for a form to be mailed out.

Most applications will be processed without you even needing to meet an Immigration Officer for an interview. If it is necessary to interview you, an appointment will be made with you at your nearest Immigration branch.

• All the documents required must be provided or applications will be returned, required documents are listed on the application form.
   
• You must send photocopies of documents with the application form. NZIS only require originals for medical and police certificates.
   
• Visa labels will then be printed and returned to you by secure courier, together with their passport. The permit will be recorded electronically and will have exactly the same conditions as endorsed on the visa label. Access to the permit is available through a student’s personalised web page.
   
• Payment can be made by bank cheque or credit card (Visa or MasterCard). NZIS does not recommend  payment in cash, because it is not safe to send cash in the mail.

You must have a photocopy of your latest student permit in your student file held by the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic International Coordinator.

This means that you must bring your passport to the International Coordinator each time you renew your student permit. If you do not bring in your passport for renewal, Bay of Plenty Polytechnic will have to contact the New Zealand Immigration Service.

Employment

You may not work part-time while studying English. However, you may apply for permission to work part-time if you are studying for a diploma or degree. If the NZ Immigration Service agrees, you may work up to 20 hours a week. Find out more about employment in New Zealand.