New Zealand has completed a major shift in its immigration services by moving all international student visa applications to its upgraded online system, ADEPT. According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), all paper-based student visa applications have been discontinued, and applicants must now submit their forms digitally.
Transition from Old System to ADEPT
As per an Economic Times report, applications submitted before August 18, 2025, through the old system will continue to be processed under that framework. However, the old platform will be completely phased out by September 17, 2025. Any draft applications in the old system must be submitted before this deadline, as they will be deleted after September 17.
Starting August 18, students applying for the following visa categories will be automatically redirected to ADEPT:
- 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
No Paper Applications from September 18
INZ has clarified that from September 18, 2025, no paper-based applications for New Zealand student visas will be accepted. This move is part of a seven-year programme aimed at consolidating all visa categories into a single digital system.
Since 2021, several visa categories, including Visitor Visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas, and Permanent Resident Visas, have already been integrated into ADEPT. The inclusion of student visas is the latest step toward achieving a streamlined, fully digital immigration process.
Benefits of ADEPT for International Students
According to INZ, the upgraded ADEPT system is designed to provide:
- A simpler and faster visa application process
- Reduced waiting times for visa approvals
- Clear communication on application status
- Increased self-service capabilities for applicants
In an official statement, Immigration New Zealand emphasized:
“Customers and staff are at the heart of the Our Future Services programme. We are aiming to deliver a simpler, faster and more user-friendly visa application process to reduce waiting times, provide clear communication on application status and increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported.”
Peak Student Visa Processing Period
The agency also noted that this period marks the peak processing season for student visas. To avoid last-minute delays, applicants are strongly advised to apply at least three months before their intended travel date.
Additionally, family-related visa products linked to student visas will be transitioned to the new ADEPT system within the next year as part of the phased rollout plan.
The complete transition to the ADEPT online platform for New Zealand student visas is a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation of immigration services. By eliminating paper-based applications and moving entirely online, New Zealand aims to create a seamless, transparent, and efficient visa process for international students.
This upgrade not only supports the Our Future Services programme but also strengthens New Zealand’s position as a top destination for global education by ensuring students and families experience a hassle-free visa journey.
