New Zealand Updates Student Visa Work Rights

Key Points  

• New Zealand announces student visa reforms under the International Education Going for Growth Plan 

Student Visa Changes in New Zealand 

Effective 3 November 2025, New Zealand will implement changes to student visa conditions under the International Education Going for Growth Plan. The updates aim to support growth in the international education sector, maintain high standards and manage immigration risks. 

Key Changes 

• Increased Work Hours: Eligible secondary and tertiary students may work up to 25 hours per week during academic terms, up from the current 20-hour limit. 
• Applies to student visas approved on or after November 3 
• Existing visa holders must apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa to access the additional hours 
• Expanded Eligibility: In-study work rights will apply to all tertiary students on approved exchange or Study Abroad programs, including one-semester courses. 
• Visa Requirements for Study Changes: Students who change their education provider or reduce their level of study will need to apply for a new visa. These changes can no longer be made through a variation of conditions. 

Current Visa Holders 

There are 40,987 student visa holders with in-study work rights: 

• 29,790 of these visas will expire on or before March 31, 2026 
• 11,197 will expire after that date 

Not all visa holders are expected to apply for increased work hours immediately. Many may wait to include the change in their next visa application or may be near the end of their studies.