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New Zealand is a multicultural country that welcomes international visitors. Most of our students find it easy to apply for a visa. However, there are some important things you need to know before you start planning your journey.
As an international visitor to New Zealand, you must hold a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country.
If you are planning to study with us for up to 3 months in total, you do not need a Student Visa. In this case, you will need to apply for a Visitor Visa, or depending on the nationality shown in your passport, you may not need to apply for a visa before arriving in New Zealand.
Immigration New Zealand provides a Quick Check to show if you need a Visitor Visa to come to New Zealand.
QUICK CHECK HEREFind out if your country of citizenship is included in the list of Visa Free Countries.
VIEW VISA FREE COUNTRIESIf you are planning to study with us for more than 3 months, you need to apply for a Student Visa.
If you are coming to New Zealand to study at CCEL for more than three months, you will need a Student Visa.
If you are applying to study at CCEL to prepare for a programme at the University of Canterbury (UC) or at UC International College (UCIC), may qualify for a Pathway Student Visa.
All international students must have appropriate and current medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. When studying at CCEL, we can arrange a policy for you, or you can arrange suitable insurance in your own country. Please be aware that students transferring to university courses may be required to purchase a university approved policy.
Immigration New Zealand provides a great information resource for international visitors considering living and working in New Zealand.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WORKING & LIVING IN NZFind out more about our student visa and insurance application services.
Learn more