New Zealand expands work rights for international students

New Zealand is rolling out major changes to its immigration policy aimed at strengthening its position as a global education hub.

Under the International Education Going for Growth Plan, the government has approved new rules that will make studying and working in the country more attractive for international students.

One of the key updates increases the in-study work limit for eligible tertiary and secondary students from 20 to 25 hours per week.

The reform applies to all new student visas issued from Nov 3, regardless of when applications were submitted.

Students already in New Zealand who wish to take advantage of the new work limit will need to apply for a variation of conditions or obtain a new student visa.

Most current visa holders can already work full-time during scheduled breaks, and those with this condition may apply for additional hours after summer, provided their visas remain valid.

Secondary school students in years 12 and 13 must still have both school and parental consent to work.

Immigration New Zealand reports that 40,987 students currently hold visas with in-study work rights, with 29,790 of those set to expire on or before March 31, 2026.

Authorities expect that not all students will apply for the extended work rights right away, as some may wait until visa renewal or the end of their courses.

In another measure to boost appeal, in-study work rights have been extended to all tertiary students enrolled in approved exchange or study abroad programs, including those attending one-semester courses.

The government said this move will make New Zealand’s universities and colleges more competitive in the global education market.

A clarification in the policy also states that students who change their education provider or move to a lower qualification level, such as from a degree to a diploma, will generally need a new student visa.

Exceptions will be limited to situations such as a provider’s unexpected closure.

Additionally, dependent child visitor visa holders and those with Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visas will also benefit, as their part-time work limits will increase from 20 to 25 hours a week.

Students can apply for the increased work hours through Immigration New Zealand’s online platform, with a variation of conditions costing NZD $325.

The government is also considering introducing a short-term work visa for vocational graduates, pending Cabinet approval.

Officials said the reforms are part of an ongoing effort to “promote sustainable growth in international education, attract more overseas students, and maintain high educational standards while effectively managing immigration risks.

“More details are available on the Ministry of Education’s International Education - Going for Growth website.