Bank Statement for New Zealand Visa — INZ 2026 Requirements Guide
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requires evidence of genuine access to funds for visitor, student, and work visa categories. In 2026, INZ scrutinises source of funds more closely — not just the closing balance. Verify on immigration.govt.nz before applying.
Living cost thresholds (2026)
For student visas, INZ maintenance requirements include:
| Study type | Annual living costs (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Tertiary / non-compulsory education | NZD 20,000/year |
| Compulsory education | NZD 17,000/year |
Add first-year tuition, travel (~NZD 2,000–3,000), and OSHC. These figures are net of prepaid living expenses already paid to your provider.
For monthly maintenance during study, INZ may also assess approximately NZD 1,667/month available (tertiary routes).
How many months of bank statements?
| Scenario | 2026 guidance |
|---|---|
| Applicant's own savings | 3–6 months continuous history showing accumulation |
| Guarantor / sponsor (INZ 1014 form) | 3 months recent bank statements |
| High-scrutiny profiles | 6 months strengthens student applications |
| Recently opened account | Must explain source of funds with payslips, tax returns, or sale documents |
Genuine access to funds
INZ rejects applications where funds appear borrowed or temporarily deposited:
- Savings should grow organically over the statement period
- Fixed deposits must be withdrawable or matured
- Education loans from nationalised/multinational banks accepted with sanction + disbursement letters
- Sudden lump sums need explanation and supporting evidence
Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS)
Applicants from certain countries (including India) may be directed to use INZ's Funds Transfer Scheme via ANZ Bank NZ — transferring living costs (e.g. NZD 20,000) before visa finalisation. Check your INZ invitation letter for FTS requirements.
NZD on cover page
Show balances in NZD when your account is in another currency. StatementsCraft converts from INR, PHP, NGN, or other currencies with dated exchange rates.
Use New Zealand visa page and format tool.
INZ-ready formatting
Our New Zealand template includes:
- Cover page with opening, closing, and average monthly balance
- Monthly summary table
- Large deposit flagging (30% threshold)
- INZ-ready footer note
Common rejection reasons (2026)
- Closing balance meets threshold but source of funds cannot be verified
- Less than 3 months transaction history
- Borrowed money deposited days before applying
- Insufficient living costs vs NZD 20,000 / 17,000 thresholds
- Sponsor evidence missing Financial Undertaking form (INZ 1014)
FAQ
How much for NZ student visa in 2026?
NZD 20,000/year living (tertiary) or NZD 17,000/year (compulsory education) + tuition + travel.
Can I use parent bank statements?
Yes — include Financial Undertaking for a Student (INZ 1014), relationship proof, and 3 months of their recent statements.
Is 3 months enough?
Minimum for guarantor evidence; 6 months recommended for student visa applications.
What is FTS?
Funds Transfer Scheme — INZ may require transferring living costs to an ANZ NZ account before visa approval. Common for Indian applicants.
Cost?
$1.99 per conversion credit or $4.99 Visa Bundle.
Conclusion
Prepare bank statement for New Zealand visa with 2026 INZ thresholds, genuine savings history, and clear NZD documentation. Format now.
Verify current rules at immigration.govt.nz.