Exchange Student Visa processing time
As at 22 July 2026, 50% of recent Exchange Student Visa applications were processed within 8 days and 80% within 2 weeks, per Immigration New Zealand's published figures.
8 days
50% processed within
2 weeks
80% processed within
Trend
Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.
About this visa
If you have been accepted into an approved student exchange scheme and are outside New Zealand, you can apply for this visa to study full-time in New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the Exchange Student Visa take to process?
- As at 22 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand reports that 50% of recent Exchange Student Visa applications were completed within 8 days and 80% within 2 weeks. Individual applications can take longer, particularly if INZ requests further information.
- Why is my Exchange Student Visa application taking longer than the published time?
- The published figures are percentiles of recently decided applications, not a promise. Applications that are incomplete, need verification, or raise health, character or genuineness questions routinely exceed them. If your application is far outside the 80% figure, you can contact INZ or engage a licensed adviser or lawyer to follow up.
Application stuck or complicated?
A licensed adviser or lawyer can review where it is at. Send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.
Other study visas
- Dependent Child Student Visa
- English Language Student Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
- NZ Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
Source: Immigration New Zealand's published processing-time figures. General information, not immigration advice.