Studying abroad is an exciting journey, but for many students, leaving their family behind can be the hardest part. The good news is that New Zealand is one of the most family-friendly study destinations in the world. If you plan to study in New Zealand, you can bring your spouse/partner and dependent children with you under specific visa categories.
At Globexa Immigration, we have guided hundreds of families through the process of applying for a New Zealand study visa for family, ensuring a smooth transition into life abroad. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about eligibility, financial requirements, application process, and tips to improve your chances of success.
1. Why Choose New Zealand for Studying with Family?
Before diving into visa details, it’s important to understand why New Zealand is an ideal choice for international students who want to live with their families.
- World-class education – New Zealand universities and colleges are globally recognized.
- Work rights for partners – Unlike many countries, spouses of international students can work full-time.
- Free schooling for children – Dependent children can study in New Zealand public schools as domestic students.
- Safe and welcoming society – Ranked among the safest countries in the world.
- Pathway to residence – Study in New Zealand can lead to permanent residency, making it a long-term family settlement option.
2. Can You Take Your Family on a New Zealand Study Visa?
Yes, but with conditions. Not every student is eligible to bring their family. Immigration New Zealand allows you to sponsor your family if:
You are studying a Level 7 degree in a skill shortage area (Green List subjects) such as healthcare, IT, or engineering.
You are pursuing a Master’s degree or PhD in New Zealand.
You are enrolled in a postgraduate qualification (Level 9 or 10).
If you are enrolled in other courses, your spouse may not qualify for a work visa, but they can still apply for a visitor visa to join you.
3. Types of Family Visas in New Zealand
1. Partner of a Student Work Visa
Available if the student is enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or Green List subject.
Duration: Same as the student’s visa.
Work rights: Full-time, open work visa (no job offer required).
Benefit: Helps the family financially as the spouse can work anywhere in New Zealand.
2. Dependent Child Student Visa
For children under 19 years of age.
Primary and secondary schooling is free as they are treated as domestic students.
This saves families thousands of dollars in tuition fees.
Children can integrate easily into the New Zealand education system.
3. Visitor Visa for Family Members
If the spouse does not qualify for a work visa, they can apply for a visitor visa.
Duration: Same as the student visa.
Restriction: No work rights, but they can live with the student during studies.
4. Financial Requirements for Family Accompaniment
Immigration New Zealand requires proof that you can support yourself and your family. The approximate financial requirements are:
Student: NZD $20,000 per year (living costs).
Spouse/Partner: NZD $5,000–$7,000 per year.
Dependent Child: NZD $5,000 per year per child.
Funds can be shown through:
Bank statements (savings, fixed deposits).
Education loans.
Sponsorship by parents/relatives.
Tip: Always show genuine financial capacity. Weak financial documentation is one of the top reasons for visa refusals.
5. Documents Required for Family Visa Applications
Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
For the Student (main applicant):
Valid passport.
Offer letter from a New Zealand institution.
Tuition fee payment proof.
Financial documents showing living expenses.
Health and character certificates.
For the Spouse/Partner:
Marriage certificate or proof of partnership.
Passport and photos.
Proof of relationship (joint bank account, photos, chats, etc.).
Financial documents.
For Dependent Children:
Birth certificates.
Passports.
School admission letters (if required).
Medical certificates.
6. Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply for your Student Visa first.
Without the student visa, your family cannot apply.Prepare family documents.
Gather proof of relationship, financial documents, and supporting evidence.Apply for Partner of a Student Work Visa / Dependent Child Student Visa.
Applications can be submitted online via Immigration New Zealand portal.Medical & police checks.
Family members may need medical tests and police clearance depending on duration of stay.Wait for visa decision.
Processing times vary but generally take 2–4 months depending on the case.Travel together or separately.
Once approved, you can plan to travel with your family or have them join you later.
7. Benefits of Bringing Your Family
Emotional stability: Studying abroad is less stressful when your loved ones are with you.
Work opportunities for spouse: Your partner can legally work full-time, helping with financial stability.
Children’s education: Free schooling at world-class New Zealand public schools.
Settlement pathway: Family visas strengthen your chances of applying for residency after studies.
8. Common Challenges Students Face
Financial proofs not sufficient.
Weak relationship documentation (especially in arranged marriages).
Incorrect visa category selection.
Delays due to incomplete documents.
How Globexa Immigration helps: Our experts carefully review each case, prepare documents professionally, and avoid errors that often lead to refusals.
9. How Globexa Immigration Supports You
At Globexa Immigration, we provide end-to-end support for your New Zealand study visa with family:
University and course selection.
Eligibility assessment for spouse and child visas.
Step-by-step application filing.
Document verification to avoid refusals.
Post-landing guidance for settlement in New Zealand.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand is not just a place to study—it’s a place where families can grow together. Whether you are pursuing higher education, planning long-term settlement, or building an international career, New Zealand’s family-friendly immigration policies make it possible to bring your loved ones along.
At Globexa Immigration, we make your dream of studying and living in New Zealand with your family a reality. From choosing the right course to filing family visa applications, our experts ensure a smooth, stress-free process.
