The Government is allowing up to 250 international PhD and postgraduate students to return to New Zealand to continue their studies.
PhD and postgraduate students can return to study in New Zealand
Up to 250 international students will be allowed to return to New Zealand to continue their studies. The border exception, once granted, will include partners and dependents.
Who is eligible?
Eligible students (and their accompanying family) must hold or have held a student visa in 2020 but unable to enter the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The course they were studying or intended to study must also have practical components requiring a physical presence in New Zealand.
Priority will be given to students who:
- are enrolled in PhD programmes
- are enrolled in a qualification that involves practical components (for example, medicine, veterinary, engineering, laboratory sciences, agricultural research)
- cannot progress or complete their study while offshore
If the 250 places are not filled by PhD students in these categories, level 9 Masters students may then be next in line in the same priority categories.
If I meet the criteria, am I guaranteed entry?
Eligible students will still be subject to 14 day pre-booked quarantine on arrival and will be liable for quarantine costs. Their entry is also subject to the availability of space in the managed isolation and quarantine facilities.
What is the next step?
If you think you may meet the criteria, it is recommended you make contact with your New Zealand education provider at your earliest convenience.
The Government will review further possible border exceptions as and when it is safe to do so.
