The government of New Zealand has announced that it will no longer accept paper student visa applications starting from September 18, 2025.
The country announced that it will be transitioning fully to an online system for visa applications.
This development was made known in an article issued by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
According to INZ, the change is targeted at modernizing the application process for international students seeking to study in the country.
The INZ also explained that the shift from paper student visa applications to a digital-only visa process is to comply with global trends in immigration management.
Applicants are now required to use the INZ online portal, which offers real-time tracking and faster document submission.
INZ advised that students must be prepared by ensuring access to reliable internet and digital copies of required documents, such as passports and academic records, before applying.
To support the transition, INZ also announced the launch of tutorials and helplines for applicants unfamiliar with the online system.
In its official announcement, Immigration New Zealand said the move is part of a seven-year programme aimed at transferring all visa categories onto a single digital system. Several visa products, including Visitor Visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas, and Permanent Resident Visas have been processed on the new platform since its introduction in 2021.
“Customers and staff are at the heart of the Our Future Services programme. We are aiming to deliver a simpler, faster, and more user-friendly visa application process to reduce waiting times, provide clear communication on application status, and increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported,” Immigration New Zealand stated.
