Study in the Netherlands vs New Zealand: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for the Netherlands 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 | the Netherlands | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 13,600 EUR | 20,000 NZD |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,133 EUR | 1,667 NZD |
| Visa fee | 228 EUR | 430 NZD |
| Typical processing time | ~4 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Feb, 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: the Netherlands vs New Zealand
- New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €13,600 for the Netherlands (≈ €2,364 less).
- the Netherlands is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand).
- the Netherlands 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 the Netherlands
- Admission from a recognised sponsor
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- MVV entry visa (nationality-dependent)
- Health insurance
- Tuberculosis (TB) test
Unique to New Zealand
- Offer of place
- Funds requirement
- Onward travel funds
- Medical & travel insurance
- Medical / chest X-ray
- Police certificate
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in the Netherlands or New Zealand?
By proof of funds, New Zealand is cheaper — €11,236/year versus €13,600 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, the Netherlands or New Zealand?
the Netherlands typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in the Netherlands or New Zealand?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. New Zealand needs less money up front — about €11,236/year versus €13,600 for the Netherlands (≈ €2,364 less). the Netherlands is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for New Zealand). the Netherlands asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.