International

Types of Visas

Visitors visa:

• 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:

• 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 New Zealand. Talk to the International Team. 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 Team.

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

Police Conviction
If you are arrested and convicted of an offense, 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 Visa

It is your responsibility to ensure you have an up-to-date visa 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 visa in their passport.

You can renew your visa 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 visa will be recorded electronically and will have exactly the same conditions as endorsed on the visa label. Access to the visa 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 visa in your student file held by the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic International Pastoral Care Coordinator.

This means that you must bring your passport to the International Coordinator each time you renew your student visa. 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.