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Ministry of Education New Zealand

Section 10 of the Education and Training Act 2020 defines a domestic student as an individual who is:

  • a New Zealand citizen, or
  • the holder of a residence class visa granted under the Immigration Act 2009 who satisfies the criteria (if any) prescribed by regulations made under subsection (2), or
  • a person of a class or description of persons required by the Minister, by notice in the Gazette, to be treated as if they are not international students.

Definition for schools#

The classes of persons enrolled with schools who are required to be treated as if they are not international students are detailed in the education notice below.

Education (Domestic Student: Primary and Secondary Education) Notice 2026 – New Zealand Legislation

To enquire about eligibility to enrol in New Zealand schools as a domestic student, contact us.

Phone: +64 4 463 8000

Email: [email protected]

Definition of domestic student (tertiary education)#

The classes of persons enrolled with a tertiary institution or registered establishment who are required to be treated as if they are not international students are detailed in the education notice below.

Education (Domestic Student: Tertiary Education and Vocational Education and Training) Notice 2025 – New Zealand Legislation