Study in Germany vs New Zealand: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Germany and New Zealand— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | Germany | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 11,904 EUR | 20,000 NZD |
| Living cost (per month) | 992 EUR | 1,667 NZD |
| Visa fee | 75 EUR | 430 NZD |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Apr, Oct | Feb, Jul |
| Required documents | 5 | 6 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: Germany vs New Zealand
- New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €668 less).
- Germany asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Germany
- University admission or conditional admission letter
- Proof of financial resources (blocked account)
- Health insurance valid in Germany
- Proof of language proficiency
- APS certificate (nationality-dependent)
- Tuition / proof-of-funds transfer
- Proof of accommodation (often requested)
Unique to New Zealand
- Offer of place
- Funds requirement
- Onward travel funds
- Medical & travel insurance
- English language proof
- Medical / chest X-ray
- Police certificate
- Tuition / funds transfer
- Accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Germany or New Zealand?
By proof of funds, New Zealand is cheaper — €11,236/year versus €11,904 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Germany or New Zealand?
Germany typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Germany or New Zealand?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €668 less). Germany asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.