Changing your study plans

If you want to change what or where you’re studying, you’ll need to apply for a variation of conditions to your current visa. In some situations you may need to get a new visa.

Changing your course or where you’re studying

Before you change your course or change the place you’re studying at, you need to apply to Immigration New Zealand.

You’ll need to apply for a change of conditions of your current visa. If you cannot change the conditions, for example, if you want to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a new visa.

Check or change your student visa conditions — Immigration New Zealand

Wait until Immigration New Zealand approves your plan

Do not leave your current course or education provider until Immigration New Zealand approves your plan.

If you break the conditions on your current visa, you may have to leave New Zealand.

Change your travel conditions

If you need to change your travel conditions, such as your entry date, you can apply for a variation of travel.

Change your work conditions

If your visa does not already allow you to work, you can apply to change your visa conditions so you can work part-time, or work full-time during your holidays.

Working while on a student visa

Apply for a change of study, work or travel conditions

  1. 1

    Fill in the application form

    Use the form to request a change of your student visa conditions, including study, travel or work conditions.

    If you’re applying to change your course, you’ll need to provide evidence that you have been offered a place on another approved course.

    Do not make any changes or leave your current course until Immigration New Zealand has fully approved your plan.

    Check or change you student visa conditions — Immigration New Zealand

  2. 2

    Submit your application

    Send your application form, the fee and your supporting documents to Immigration New Zealand.

    To find the cost and where to send your application, click the link below and type ‘variation of conditions’ in the search box.

    Fees, decision times and where to apply — Immigration New Zealand

  3. 3

    Wait for approval

    Immigration New Zealand will contact you to let you know if your application has been approved.

    If they need more information to approve your application, they will ask for it.

    Student visa wait times — Immigration New Zealand

  4. 4

    You application is accepted or declined

    If Immigration New Zealand accepts your application, you can make the changes to your study.

    If your application is declined, you cannot change your study plans while on your current visa. You may need to apply for a new visa.

    Find and choose a visa — Immigration New Zealand

Working in NZ after your studies have finished

You may be able to stay and work in New Zealand when you finish your studies. To do this, you’ll need a work visa.

Staying to work after finishing your study — Immigration New Zealand

The Post Study Work Visa allows you to work in NZ for up to 3 years after you have finished your course. Check out the criteria for this visa on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Post Study Work Visa — Immigration New Zealand

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

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