New Zealand has officially implemented its updated student visa rules, expanding work rights for international students as part of the government’s “International Education Going for Growth” plan. Effective November 3, 2025, eligible students can now work up to 25 hours per week, up from the previous 20-hour limit. The reform also extends in-study work rights to all tertiary students enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, including those pursuing short-term, one-semester courses.
The immigration changes are designed to strengthen New Zealand’s international education sector by promoting sustainable growth, maintaining academic quality, and addressing workforce shortages — all while managing immigration risks.
Under the new rules, tertiary and secondary school students with valid study visas can work up to 25 hours weekly during the academic term. This policy applies to all new student visas granted from November 3, even if applications were submitted earlier. Students already holding visas with a 20-hour work condition can apply for a variation of conditions or apply for a new visa to access the additional hours.
Most student visas already allow full-time work during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays. Those whose current visas include this provision can wait until after summer to apply for the variation, as long as their visas remain valid. However, school students in Years 12 and 13 still require parental and school approval to work during the school term.
According to official immigration data, 40,987 student visa holders in New Zealand currently have in-study work rights. Of these, 29,790 visas are set to expire by March 31, 2026, while 11,197 visas remain valid beyond that date. Immigration officials note that not all students are expected to seek the 5-hour extension immediately, since some may prefer to incorporate the change during their next visa renewal to avoid paying the NZD 325 variation fee.
The new framework also clarifies visa obligations for students who change their education provider or lower their level of study — such applicants must now apply for a new student visa instead of merely modifying their existing one. Exceptions may apply in special circumstances, such as sudden institutional closures beyond a student’s control.
In addition to the student visa updates, part-time work rights for dependent child visitor visa holders and Skilled Migrant Category Interim visa holders have also been increased from 20 to 25 hours per week. Eligible applicants can submit their requests using the INZ 1020 Variation of Conditions form on the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
Recent Random Post:
