New Zealand: Forthcoming Relaxation of Work Rights for Student Visa Holders Announced

The New Zealand government announced the International Education Going for Growth Plan, which includes updates to immigration rules aimed at supporting sustainable growth, attracting more international students, maintaining high education standards, and managing immigration risks. As part of this initiative, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will implement the following changes effective November 2025:

• Eligible student visa holders (tertiary students and secondary school students in Years 12 and 13) in New Zealand will be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during term time (up from the current 20-hour limit). This increase applies to all new student visas issued from November 3, 2025, regardless of application timing.    Current student visa holders seeking additional hours will have to apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa, with applicable fees. As many students already have full-time work rights during scheduled breaks like summer, some may defer applying until after the break if their visa remains valid.    
• In-study work rights will be extended to all tertiary students enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs, including those undertaking one-semester courses.  
• INZ will also clarify whether students who change their education provider or reduce their level of study will have to apply for a new student visa or will have to request a variation of conditions instead.

Looking ahead, and subject to Cabinet approval, INZ is considering further changes such as introducing a new short-term work visa for certain vocational graduates and streamlining existing visa processes. We will report as more information becomes available.      

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].