Planning to study in New Zealand but worried about leaving your family behind? You don’t have to.
New Zealand is one of the most family-friendly study destinations in the world. If you hold an eligible student visa, the New Zealand Dependent Visa allows you to bring your spouse and children with you. Your spouse may receive an Open Work Visa. Your children may attend primary and secondary school free of international tuition fees. In this guide, BBC Migration breaks down everything you need to know.
Who Qualifies for the New Zealand Dependent Visa?
Not every student visa allows you to bring dependents. Eligibility depends on your qualification level and type.
If you are studying a Level 7 or Level 8 qualification listed on the New Zealand Green List, you are generally eligible to bring your spouse and children during your study period.
If your qualification is NOT on the Green List, you generally cannot bring dependents during study. However, you may still bring your family after completing your qualification and obtaining a Post Study Work Visa. Many students successfully reunite with their families at this stage.
What Is the New Zealand Dependent Visa? Key Benefits You Should Know
The New Zealand Dependent Visa is the visa category that allows eligible students to bring their spouse and dependent children to New Zealand during their study and post-study period.
Here is what your family receives:
Your Spouse:
- – An Open Work Visa
- – Full time work rights
- – Freedom to work for almost any employer
- – No employer sponsorship required
- – Freedom to change jobs without a new visa
Your Children:
- – Free primary and secondary school education
- – Attendance at government schools as domestic students
- – No international tuition fees apply
This is a significant advantage. Many countries restrict spousal work rights or charge full international fees for children’s schooling. New Zealand does neither.
Funds Required for Your Dependents
New Zealand immigration expects you to show sufficient funds for each dependent. Current general guidelines require:
Family Situation | Additional Funds Required |
Spouse Only | NZD $4,200 |
Spouse +1 Child | NZD $8,400 |
Spouse +2 Children | NZD $12,600 |
Spouse +3 Children | NZD $16,800 |
These amounts are in addition to your own tuition fees and living costs. Plan your finances carefully before lodging applications.
How Long Does the New Zealand Dependent Visa Last?
Your family’s visa duration matches your own student visa. It is that simple.
For example:
- – Studying a 1.5-year Master’s degree? Your family’s visa lasts 1.5 years.
- – Moving to a 3-year Post Study Work Visa? Your family’s visa continues for that period too.
The same principle applies for eligible Green List Level 7 and Level 8 qualifications. Your family stays with you throughout your study and post-study journey in New Zealand.
The Legal Warning Every Applicant Must Know
This is important. Please read carefully.
As per Immigration New Zealand guidelines, The New Zealand Dependent Visa must be prepared and submitted by a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA). This is not just good advice — it is New Zealand law.
Unauthorized agents cannot legally provide immigration advice. Using one can seriously harm your visa application. Always verify that your adviser is registered and licensed before proceeding.
At BBC Migration Consultants, all advice is provided by qualified registered professionals. Your family’s application is in safe hands.
FAQ SECTION:
Q1: Can I bring my boyfriend or girlfriend on a New Zealand Dependent Visa?
New Zealand recognises de facto (unmarried) relationships. However, you must show strong evidence of a genuine and stable relationship similar to marriage. Simply being in a relationship is not enough. If you are not living together, you are unlikely to qualify. Speak with a Licensed Immigration Adviser to assess your specific situation before applying.
Q2: I am studying a non-Green List Level 8 qualification. Can I bring my family?
You can study that qualification without any issue. The limitation is that you cannot bring dependents during your study period under that visa. However, once you complete your studies and obtain your Post Study Work Visa, you may then bring your family to New Zealand. It is a slightly different timeline — but a well-established pathway many families have followed successfully.
Q3: Do my spouse and children need health insurance in New Zealand?
Health insurance is strongly recommended for all dependents. It is generally not a direct visa requirement, but medical costs in New Zealand can be significant without adequate cover. Factor health insurance into your overall financial planning before you travel.
Q4: Can my spouse study in New Zealand while on a dependent Open Work Visa?
A dependent Open Work Visa is issued for work purposes. If your spouse wishes to enroll in a formal qualification, they may need a separate student visa. A Licensed Immigration Adviser can assess this based on your family’s specific goals and circumstances.
Thinking About Bringing Your Family to New Zealand?
One error in a dependent visa application can cause delays — or a refusal. Don’t take that risk with your family’s future.
BBC Migration Consultants works with qualified Licensed Immigration Advisers to prepare your spouse’s and children’s visa applications correctly, completely, and on time.
Also read our complete guide on New Zealand Residency Visa 2026.
