Student Loan Repayment: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how student loan repayments work in New Zealand, including interest-free status and what happens if you move overseas.
This scheme manages the repayment process for individuals who have borrowed money from the government to fund their studies.
Who it's for
This is for anyone who currently holds a student loan in New Zealand.
What you get
If you are living in New Zealand, your loan remains interest-free, meaning you only pay back the original amount you borrowed without extra charges added over time.
What it costs you
Repayments are handled through automatic deductions from your salary if you are an employee. If you are self-employed, you are responsible for making the payments yourself.
The catch to know
While the loan is interest-free while you live in the country, interest will be charged if you move overseas and remain there for more than six months.
How to apply
- Check your current loan balance and status.
- Set up your repayment method through your employer or via your own tax filings.
- Update your residency status if you plan to move abroad.
- Visit the official portal for more details: https://www.ird.govt.nz