Visas and passports

Going overseas to study is more complex than going on a holiday. Make sure that your travel documents are in order well before you head to the airport.

Visas

Once your application is officially accepted by your host university, they will provide you with relevant visa information. Note that the Wellington Global Exchange office cannot provide visa advice.

You can also check with the appropriate embassy or consulate for visa requirements to enter and study in your host country. Embassy contact details can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website. You may also need visas for countries you are travelling through or countries you plan to visit while abroad.

Standard visa application requirements

It is your responsibility to obtain all necessary visa documentation, which will likely include:

  • A copy of your host university Acceptance Letter. If required, Global Exchange team can write a letter to confirm that you have been accepted on the exchange programme (Italian Embassy requirement).
  • Health check-up or proof of vaccinations
  • Police clearance check
  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of finances. Do not rely on Study Link loans and allowances or your Wellington Global Exchange grant. You will need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your study.

Visas applications can take a long time

Research visa requirements early, as it can take weeks or months for a visa to be granted. If applying by mail, send your visa application with a secure courier.

USA-bound students

There is no consular service at the US Embassy in Wellington. Students will need to book and attend an interview at the US Consulate General in Auckland. It can take three to four weeks to book a time for this interview, so take this into account.

Finland/Sweden-bound students

You will be required to travel to Canberra, Australia for your visaso please take this into account when budgeting and planning your time frame.

Applying from overseas

If you will be applying for your visa while overseas (such as traveling before your term starts), double check with immigration that it will not impact your ability to apply for the correct visa for studying.

Working overseas

Some countries allow students to work on a student visa, but be aware of restrictions.

International students

Going on an exchange may have implications for your New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa. Get in touch with Immigration New Zealand to understand the impacts it may have on your visa.

Passport

Check that your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date. Most countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is close to expiring. New Zealand passports can be renewed online.

Let us know if you are a domestic student who will not be travelling on a New Zealand passport.

If you are renewing your passport for another nationality, check with the relevant embassy for details on how to do this.

Passport safety

Make a photocopy of your passport's identification page and keep it separate from the original when you travel. Also, scan it and email it to yourself, and leave a photocopy with a friend or family member at home.