Border exception for some returning international tertiary students

Tuesday, 14 January 2021

Border exception for some returning international tertiary students

Some good news for international tertiary students, degree level and above, who began their study in New Zealand but were caught offshore when border restrictions began. The new exception will allow some students to return to New Zealand in stages from April 2021. Priority will be given to students who are closest to graduation. 

To be eligible for this border exception, students will need to meet newly imposed requirements (including to have sufficient funds of NZ$20,000 to support themselves in New Zealand).  

In addition, eligible international tertiary students will be subject to the same border rules and quarantine regime as all other arrivals – with any additional restrictions depending on where they come from.

Hold, or have held a visa to study in 2020;

Be studying towards a bachelor’s degree level or above qualification;

Have studied in New Zealand in 2019 or 2020 toward their current qualification;

Be returning to study with their current provider;

Need to be in-country to complete their study.

Source: Beehive.govt.nz – The official website of the New Zealand Government