New Zealand Student Visa Fee Doubles to Rs 38,190

Starting October 1, 2024, New Zealand will significantly increase visa fees for students, tourists, and workers. The government aims to make the immigration system self-sufficient, shifting financial responsibility from taxpayers to visa applicants. This fee hike is expected to reduce public spending by over NZ$563 million in four years, while still maintaining competitive fees compared to other countries.

Indian students, the second-largest international student group in New Zealand, will be particularly impacted, with student visa fees doubling from NZ$375 to NZ$750. Despite this increase, New Zealand’s fees will still be lower than Australia's, but concerns over rising costs could affect future enrollments.

Tourist visa fees for Indian visitors will also rise significantly, from NZ$190 to NZ$300. Additionally, the government has introduced stricter rules for work visas, making it harder for lower-skilled workers on Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV) to bring their families to New Zealand, unless they meet specific criteria.

These changes reflect New Zealand's broader efforts to create a more sustainable immigration system, though they could pose challenges for those seeking to study, work, or visit the country, particularly from India.