🇳🇿 New Zealand Student Visa Application Process is Changing from 18 August 2025 – Here’s What International Students Need to Know!

If you’re planning to study in New Zealand, there’s an important update you need to be aware of! From 18 August 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is making big changes to how student visa applications are submitted. Here’s everything you need to understand — explained simply.

 

🎓 What’s Changing?

From 18 August 2025, student visa applications will no longer be accepted through the old application system. Instead, they will move to a new platform called the ADEPT Immigration Online System.

ADEPT is a more advanced system designed to make the visa application process smoother, more transparent, and easier to track.

 

📝 Which Visas Are Affected?

The change applies to most student visa categories, including:

  • Fee-Paying Student Visa: For students paying full tuition fees to study in NZ.

  • Pathway Student Visa: For students who plan to take multiple courses (e.g., English + degree).

  • English Language Studies: Short-term English language courses.

  • Exchange & Scholarship Student Visas: For students coming through official exchange programs or scholarships.

If you are applying under one of these categories, you must use the new system starting from 18 August 2025.

 

đź“… Important Deadlines to Remember

Date

What You Need to Know
Before 17 August 2025You can still submit your visa application through the old Immigration Online system.
By 17 September 2025If you’ve started an application but not submitted it, you must complete and submit it before this date.
After 17 September 2025All unsubmitted drafts will be automatically deleted from the old system.
From 18 August 2025 onwards

All new student visa applications must be submitted using the new ADEPT system only.

⏳ Why You Should Apply Early

Even though the system is upgrading, processing times may still be longer — especially during peak admission seasons.

INZ recommends applying at least 3 months before your course starts. For example, if your course begins in November, aim to submit your application by August or earlier.

Don’t wait till the last moment — technical errors, missing documents, or system transition delays could cost you your study opportunity.

 

đź’¬ How Will This Affect You?

If you’re:

  • Already preparing your application → Submit it before 17 August if possible.

  • Still deciding on your course/institute → Factor in extra time to gather documents and learn how to use the new ADEPT system.

  • Unsure about the process → Seek help from a registered education consultant.

👩‍💼 Need Help? Cosmos Education is Here for You

Navigating visa rules, especially with system changes, can be confusing. That’s why Cosmos Education is here to help. Our team can:

  • Advise you on the best student visa option

  • Help gather and review your documents

  • Guide you step-by-step through the new ADEPT application

  • Support you with updates or re-submissions if needed

📩 Contact us today to get started — and avoid costly mistakes or delays!

👉 View Official INZ Announcement

 

What is changing in the New Zealand student visa process from August 2025?

From 18 August 2025, student visa applications must be submitted using the new ADEPT Immigration Online system. The old system will no longer accept new applications for certain visa types.

Which student visa types are affected by this change?

The change applies to the following visa types:

  • Fee-Paying Student Visa
  • Pathway Student Visa
  • English Language Study Visa
  • Exchange & Scholarship Student Visas

Can I still apply using the old system?

Yes, but only until 17 August 2025. Any saved draft applications in the old system must be submitted by 17 September 2025, or they will be deleted automatically.

What happens if I don’t submit my draft application by 17 September 2025?

Your draft will be automatically deleted, and you’ll need to start a new application in the ADEPT system from scratch.

How early should I apply for a student visa to New Zealand?

You should apply at least 3 months before your intended travel date, as processing times may vary and can be longer during peak seasons.

I’m confused about the new system. Can someone help me with the application?

Yes! Cosmos offers expert guidance to help you with visa applications, document preparation, and using the new ADEPT system.

Call us on: +91 86910 08982
                  (Between 8AM to 6PM)
Mail us on: visa@cosmoseducation.in