Victims of human trafficking can obtain a range of New Zealand visas. For example, children who are victims of this crime can study in New Zealand for 12 months by receiving a Trafficking Victim Student Visa. Children under the age of 17 can study in primary and secondary schools by obtaining this visa.
This article includes all you need to know about the Trafficking Victim Student Visa, including the application process, requirements, work permit, and more.
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ToggleWhat is a Trafficking Victim Student Visa?
Children caught in human trafficking can attend primary and secondary schools in New Zealand. They need the Trafficking Victim Student Visa for this purpose. If the child is eligible for this visa, he/she will be exempted from paying tuition.

You need to consider the following regarding this visa:
- The Trafficking Victim Student visa is valid for up to 12 months.
- Children 17 years or younger are eligible for this visa.
- Before receiving this visa, the child must present a police certificate proving that the police believe the child has been a victim of human trafficking.
- The benefits to children under this visa are similar to those for domestic children.
- Children aged 16 or 17 can work after school and on holiday but must obtain written permission from their parents or guardian.
- Children with this visa can apply directly for residency.
- These children have access to free health and disability services.
- These children can access financial assistance under the Needs Grants Ministerial Welfare Program.
What are the requirements for the Trafficking Victim Student Visa?
- Two acceptable photos
- Original passport with a certified copy or certificate of identity
- Birth certificate or a certified copy of it
- The child should be in good health. For this purpose, he/she needs to do some medical examinations and chest x-rays.
- Children 17 years of age or older must present a police certificate to prove their good character.
- Children applying for this visa must be 17 years of age or younger. The child’s identity documents can prove this.
- A police certificate is required to prove that the child has been a victim of human trafficking. New Zealand police issued this certificate.
What is the application process for the Trafficking Victim Student Visa?
- You must first complete the student visa application form (INZ 1012) and submit it with the supporting documents mentioned in the previous section for New Zealand Immigration.
- This organization will review your documents and may ask you to submit other documents if necessary. If you are currently on a temporary visa in New Zealand and your visa is expiring, New Zealand Immigration will issue you an Interim Visa. This permission allows you to stay in New Zealand legally and apply for a new visa.
- Note that children caught in human trafficking can apply directly for residency if:
- Returning home poses a risk to the child
- The child is at risk of becoming a victim again upon returning home
- The child suffers from financial problems or social stigma
- Specially trained immigration officers will review the application for residency and make the best decision in the best interests of the child.
Do you want to immigrate to the Netherlands as a dentist? Read our article.
Are visa holders allowed to work?
Yes. In the last two years of secondary school, children can work up to 20 hours a week. They can also work full-time during the Christmas holidays and between school years.
Please note that children under the age of 18 must have written permission from their parents, school, and legal guardian in order to work in New Zealand. Children under the age of 16 are also not allowed to work.
Let’s sum up…
In the previous sections, we reviewed the visa application process, requirements, and other details that may be helpful to those on the road to obtaining this visa. You can also find out more about New Zealand visas and visas from other countries on the Visa Library website.
If you have experience in obtaining New Zealand visas and visas from other countries, you can share it with other readers through the comments section. This way, they can make better decisions based on your experience. You can also put your questions and suggestions in this section, and we will answer as soon as possible.
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