International students are back

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There has been a steady increase of students from overseas securing places at schools, training institutes and universities throughout NZ. Before Covid and border closures, international students contributed around $5 billion annually to the NZ economy.

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Students choose NZ for multiple reasons; such as gaining experience living/studying overseas, a better education than what is on offer at home or a pathway to residence of NZ. There have been changes in immigration policy for students. Most noteworthy are:

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• Pathways to residence are now limited. Highly skilled job offers remain the key to residence approval.

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• Post study work rights are determined by the type of course completed. In most cases, an open visa is granted for the length of time it took to complete the course in NZ. University degrees are the focus of government attraction.

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• Student’s completing a tertiary course of 36 weeks or more must now have at least $20,000 in available funds each year. Those studying at schools (primary through to secondary) require $17,000 a year.

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Over the years, we have seen too many young students fall victim to “agents” taking advantage. We recommend doing your own research to verify anything an agent tells you about a course in New Zealand before you sign up. Deal with a Licensed Immigration Adviser because you have protection. Overseas “agents” are not regulated, so there is no protection if things go wrong. Don’t pick the cheapest course or one that “may” lead to residence. Talk to the course counsellors at the university or school to select a course that’s right for you. If what you are being told sounds too good to be true, it most likely is not true.

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Taking an international course and living in a new country should be a time filled with wonderful experiences, adventure and making new lifelong friends. At the end of the course, a qualification from a quality institute will help build future careers.

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