Study in South Korea vs New Zealand: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for South Korea 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 | South Korea | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 20,000,000 KRW | 20,000 NZD |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,200,000 KRW | 1,667 NZD |
| Visa fee | 80,000 KRW | 430 NZD |
| Typical processing time | ~4 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Mar, Sep | 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: South Korea vs New Zealand
- New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €13,333 for South Korea (≈ €2,097 less).
- South Korea is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand).
- South Korea 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 South Korea
- Certificate of Admission
- Financial requirement
- National Health Insurance (NHIS)
- 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 South Korea or New Zealand?
By proof of funds, New Zealand is cheaper — €11,236/year versus €13,333 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, South Korea or New Zealand?
South Korea typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in South Korea or New Zealand?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €13,333 for South Korea (≈ €2,097 less). South Korea is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand). South Korea asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.