New Zealand Announces Major Overhaul of Open Work Visa Regulations
Significant changes to the employment conditions for open work visa holders in New Zealand are set to take effect on April 20, 2026, as announced by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) on February 24, 2026. These updates aim to provide greater clarity on the types of work permitted under open work visas, with authorities emphasizing that clearer guidelines will help migrants better understand their rights and responsibilities while promoting fair and compliant employment practices across the country.
Understanding the Current and Future Visa Landscape
Currently, an open work visa allows individuals to work for almost any employer, in any job and location across New Zealand, without requiring a job offer. This flexibility distinguishes it from employer-specific visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which tie migrants to particular employers and roles. It is important to note that employer-specific visas will not be affected by the new rules, ensuring stability for those under such arrangements.
From April 20, 2026, open work visas will include one of two clearly defined employment conditions, marking a shift towards more structured regulations.
Categories of Open Work Visas and Their New Conditions
Open Work Visas Allowing Any Work
Some visa holders will be permitted to undertake any form of work in New Zealand, including:
- Working for an employer
- Sole trading
- Owning and operating a business
This broader condition will apply to holders of:
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa
- Post Study Work Visa
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
- Partner of a Military Work Visa
Open Work Visas Requiring Work for an Employer Only
Other open work visa holders must work exclusively for an employer, either under:
- An employment agreement, or
- A contract for services (which INZ considers employment)
These visa holders will not be allowed to operate their own businesses. This condition will apply to:
- Victims of Domestic Violence Work Visa
- Victims of People Trafficking Work Visa
- Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa
- Asylum Seeker Work Visa
- All Working Holiday Visa categories
Universal Conditions for All Open Work Visa Holders
Regardless of category, all open work visa holders must comply with New Zealand’s employment and business laws and meet the specific conditions attached to their visa. INZ has clarified that open work visa holders:
- Cannot employ other people, either directly or indirectly through a business they own
- Cannot provide commercial sexual services
- Cannot run or invest in a business providing commercial sexual services
The new rules do not apply to student visa holders, maintaining separate regulations for that group.
Transitional Arrangements and Future Compliance
Those currently holding an open work visa who are engaged in work that will not be permitted under the new structure, except for commercial sexual services, may continue that work until their visa expires. This transitional measure is intended to give visa holders time to understand their updated conditions and make necessary adjustments before applying for a new visa.
However, any future applications must comply with the employment conditions linked to the approved visa category, ensuring alignment with the updated framework.
Clarification on Working Holiday Visas
INZ reiterated that the primary purpose of a working holiday visa is tourism. While holders may undertake temporary work to support their stay, from April 20, 2026, all such work must be for an employer under an employment agreement or contract for services. Operating a business will not be permitted under a working holiday visa, reinforcing its focus on cultural exchange and travel.
These changes are part of a broader effort by authorities to ensure clarity, compliance, and safer working arrangements for migrants and employers across New Zealand, aiming to foster a more transparent and equitable immigration system.
