Introduction to the Enhanced Immigration Online System
As of 18 August 2025, all international student visa applications are processed exclusively through Immigration New Zealand’s enhanced Immigration Online system, known as ADEPT. This transition marks a significant milestone in the government’s Our Future Services programme, designed to modernize visa services by creating a more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly digital experience for applicants and staff.
The enhanced platform eliminates the reliance on paper-based submissions and old digital forms, ensuring that students applying for New Zealand Student Visas can access faster processing, clearer communication, and improved self-service capabilities.
New Zealand Student Visas Covered in the Online System
From 18 August 2025, students applying for the following New Zealand Student Visa categories are automatically directed to the new application system:
- English Language Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
- New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
This shift standardizes the process for international students, providing a single, streamlined platform for submitting applications, uploading documents, and tracking progress.
Deadlines for Old Applications
Applicants who submitted their forms on or before 17 August 2025 through the previous system do not need to resubmit. Immigration New Zealand will continue processing those applications within the older framework until a decision is reached.
However:
- Draft applications in the old system must be completed and submitted by 17 September 2025.
- Any drafts not submitted by this date will be deleted.
- Paper applications will no longer be accepted after 17 September 2025.
All new applications from this date forward must be completed using the enhanced Immigration Online system.
Transition Timeline: What Students Must Know
The move to ADEPT is structured in phases to minimize disruption.
Transition of Student Visa Applications to ADEPT
- 2021: Immigration New Zealand launched the enhanced Immigration Online system (ADEPT).
- 2021: Visitor Visa, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and Resident Visa were moved to ADEPT.
- 18 August 2025: International Student Visa categories transitioned to ADEPT.
- 17 September 2025: Deadline to submit old draft applications. Any drafts not submitted will be deleted.
- 18 September 2025: Paper applications for New Zealand Student Visas will no longer be accepted.
- 2026: Family visa products will transition to ADEPT along with other visa categories.
Application Processing During Peak Periods
Immigration New Zealand highlights that the months surrounding university and school intake periods represent peak times for visa submissions. Students are strongly advised to:
- Submit applications at least 3 months before travel.
- Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded promptly.
- Monitor their online accounts for updates and communication.
Delays caused by last-minute submissions could impact a student’s ability to commence studies on time.
Check this out: Changes to New Zealand Student Visa Work Rights 2025
What This Means for Families and Related Visas
As part of the wider Our Future Services programme, family-related visa products connected to students will also migrate to the enhanced system in the coming year. This ensures that dependents and guardians applying for visas can benefit from the same streamlined, digital-first experience.
Benefits of the Enhanced Immigration Online System (ADEPT)
The upgrade is not just a technical change, it represents a shift in the way Immigration New Zealand manages visa services.
Key advantages include:
- Faster decision-making through automated processing checks.
- Increased transparency with real-time status updates.
- User-friendly forms designed to reduce application errors.
- Improved self-service options such as document uploads and case tracking.
- Elimination of paper-based delays to create a fully digital pathway.
Next Steps for Applicants
International students preparing to apply for a visa should take the following steps:
- Apply early, aim for 12 weeks before your course start date.
- Use the enhanced Immigration Online system to create and submit your application.
- Upload all required documents digitally, including proof of funds, medical certificates, and offer of place.
- Track your application status regularly through your online account.
- Stay updated with Immigration New Zealand announcements as more visa categories transition to ADEPT.
Wrapping up
The move of international student visa applications to New Zealand’s enhanced Immigration Online system (ADEPT) represents a forward-looking step in simplifying and modernizing the visa process. For students, this means faster processing, greater clarity, and a fully digital experience, eliminating outdated paper-based methods.
By applying early and leveraging the features of the new system, international students can ensure a smooth application process and focus on preparing for their studies in New Zealand.
At Immigration Chambers, we simplify your New Zealand student visa journey. Our experts guide you through the online application process, ensuring every document is complete and compliant. We help you avoid delays, meet deadlines, and secure your study future in New Zealand with confidence. Get in touch with our experienced immigration lawyer for New Zealand today.
FAQs
1. When did New Zealand student visa applications move online?
All student visa applications moved online on 18 August 2025 via the enhanced Immigration Online system (ADEPT).
2. Which student visa types must now be applied for online?
English Language, Exchange, Fee Paying, Pathway, NZ Government Scholarship, and Foreign Government Supported student visas must now be applied online.
3. What happens to applications submitted before 17 August 2025?
Applications submitted before 17 August 2025 in the old system will still be processed without needing resubmission.
4. What is the deadline for submitting draft applications in the old system?
Draft applications in the old system must be submitted by 17 September 2025 or they will be deleted.
5. Will Immigration New Zealand accept paper student visa applications after September 2025?
No. From 18 September 2025, paper-based student visa applications will no longer be accepted.
6. How far in advance should students apply for a visa?
Students should apply at least 3 months before their intended travel date to avoid processing delays.
7. Will family visas linked to students also move to the new online system?
Yes. Family visa products will move to the enhanced Immigration Online system in 2026.