New Zealand Implements Major Changes to International Student Work Rights
The New Zealand government has officially rolled out significant immigration reforms under its International Education Going for Growth Plan, initially announced in July 2025. These changes, effective from November 3, 2025, mark a substantial shift in how international students can work while pursuing their education in the country.
The most notable change allows eligible tertiary and secondary school students to work up to 25 hours per week during their study periods, representing a significant increase from the previous 20-hour limit. This enhancement applies automatically to all new student visas granted from November 3, even if the applications were submitted before this date.
What Current Student Visa Holders Need to Know
For the approximately 40,987 student visa holders currently with in-study work rights, the situation requires careful attention. Students holding visas with the 20-hour work limit who wish to access the additional five hours must apply for either a variation of conditions or a completely new student visa.
Immigration officials have clarified that not all visa holders are expected to apply immediately for the extra work hours. Many may choose to wait until their next visa renewal, while others might be approaching the end of their studies and may not need the additional hours.
The breakdown of current visa holders shows that 29,790 visas will expire on or before March 31, 2026, while 11,197 will remain valid beyond that date. This staggered expiration means the impact of the policy change will unfold gradually over the coming months.
Expanded Rights for Exchange Students and Important Clarifications
In another major development, the New Zealand government has extended in-study work rights to all tertiary students participating in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes. This includes even those enrolled in one-semester courses, making New Zealand's educational institutions more attractive to international learners seeking short-term study experiences.
The policy also brings important clarifications regarding student visa conditions. Students who change their education provider or lower their level of study—such as moving from a degree programme to a diploma—will now generally need to apply for a new student visa rather than simply seeking a variation of conditions.
Limited exceptions will apply to this rule, primarily in circumstances where an education provider closes down unexpectedly. This change aims to maintain better oversight of student movements between institutions and study levels.
Application Process and Additional Beneficiaries
Students seeking to increase their work rights can submit a variation of conditions application through Immigration New Zealand's online systems. The specific process depends on when their original visa was issued, and the application carries a fee of NZD $325.
The benefits extend beyond traditional student visa holders. Holders of dependent child visitor visas and Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visas will also see their part-time work rights increased from 20 to 25 hours per week, providing additional flexibility for families and skilled workers in transition.
For school students in years 12 and 13, the increased weekly work limit still requires both parental consent and school permission, maintaining protective measures for younger international students.
The government continues to explore additional measures, including the potential introduction of a short-term work visa for vocational graduates and streamlined visa processes. These proposals remain subject to Cabinet approval and could further enhance New Zealand's appeal as an international education destination.
Students seeking comprehensive information about these changes are encouraged to visit the Ministry of Education's International Education—Going for Growth official website for complete details and guidance.
