Study in Japan vs New Zealand: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Japan 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 | Japan | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 2,000,000 JPY | 20,000 NZD |
| Living cost (per month) | 120,000 JPY | 1,667 NZD |
| Visa fee | 3,000 JPY | 430 NZD |
| Typical processing time | ~10 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Apr, Oct | Feb, Jul |
| Required documents | 6 | 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: Japan vs New Zealand
- New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €11,765 for Japan (≈ €529 less).
- New Zealand is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Japan
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Admission to a Japanese institution
- Proof of funds
- National Health Insurance
- Language proof
Unique to New Zealand
- Offer of place
- Funds requirement
- Onward travel funds
- Medical & travel insurance
- English language proof
- Medical / chest X-ray
- Police certificate
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Japan or New Zealand?
By proof of funds, New Zealand is cheaper — €11,236/year versus €11,765 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Japan or New Zealand?
New Zealand typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~10). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Japan or New Zealand?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €11,765 for Japan (≈ €529 less). New Zealand is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~10 for Japan). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.