New Zealand emerges as top pick for students amid changing US, Canada immigration norms

A steep drop in interest in US-bound education appears to be translating into gains for New Zealand, as education consultancies in Hyderabad report a 300% spike in student enquiries for the island nation. The surge follows recent changes in immigration policies in the US, Canada, and the UK, prompting many students from Hyderabad to look for safer and more stable destinations, according to a report by TOI.

City-based educational consultants say a growing number of students are now exploring higher education opportunities in New Zealand, including non-traditional courses like food technology, dairy, and agricultural sciences, apart from regular tech programs.

"This shift is primarily due to the changing situation in the US, as well as in Canada and the UK. Students are in no mood to take any risks by heading to these countries and are exploring safer options like New Zealand, Australia, and Germany," said Ajaya Kumar Vemulapati to TOI, who runs an overseas education consultancy in the city. He added that the number of enquiries for New Zealand has risen from four or five per year to nearly 40 in 2025.

Subhakar Alapati, founder-director of Global Tree told TOI, confirming the news, "Many are showing interest in courses such as food technology and dairy science—both at the undergraduate and master's levels."

Consultants point to several reasons behind New Zealand's rising appeal: streamlined visa processing, a three-year post-study work visa, and a defined pathway to permanent residency.

"I did not want to go to the US because of the changing immigration rules, long visa wait times, and political uncertainties," said Chavva Prasanth to TOI, who plans to pursue a master's degree in food technology from Auckland. Canada too has become less attractive because of the recent cap on international student intake, rising cost of living, and new financial requirements for visas. So, he felt New Zealand was the better option, he added.

Paladugu Saketh, another student set to leave for New Zealand in July, told TOI, "There is a shortage of skilled food technologists in New Zealand. Also, these roles are on New Zealand's Green List (formerly the Skill Shortage List), making it easier to obtain permanent residency."

The growing shift in student preferences signals a broader realignment in global education trends, driven by evolving immigration landscapes across major destinations.

(With inputs from TOI)