Big Changes Ahead for Student Visa Work Rights and International Education in New Zealand

On 14 July 2025, the New Zealand Government announced the ambitious International Education Going for Growth Plan, aiming to make New Zealand the destination of choice for international students while doubling the sector’s value to $7.2 billion by 2034.

Alongside these broad economic and policy goals, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has confirmed practical updates to student visa work rights, coming into effect November 2025. Here’s what current and prospective students — and anyone considering studying in New Zealand — need to know.

Increased in-study work hours: From 20 to 25 hours per week

From 3 November 2025, eligible tertiary and secondary school students will be able to work up to 25 hours per week during term time — an increase from the current 20-hour limit.

This will apply to all new student visas granted from that date, even if applications were lodged earlier.

If you already hold a visa limited to 20 hours, you can apply for a variation of conditions (normal INZ fees apply) to take advantage of the extra 5 hours. Many visas also permit full-time work during summer and scheduled breaks; you could wait until after summer if your visa remains valid.

For years 12 and 13 school students, parental and school permission remains a requirement.

Extended work rights for exchange and Study Abroad students

From November, all tertiary students on approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, even short 1-semester courses, will gain in-study work rights — broadening access to valuable work experience while in New Zealand.

New requirement when changing course or provider

If you change education provider or lower your level of study, you’ll now need to apply for a new student visa, rather than just a variation of conditions. This helps keep visa conditions aligned with the reasons your visa was issued.

The bigger picture: New Zealand’s plan for international education growth

These changes aren’t isolated — they’re part of a broader vision to:

• Deliver a high-quality education and recognised qualifications

• Strengthen international connections and build New Zealand’s education brand

• Increase enrolments from 83,400 in 2024 to 105,000 in 2027 and 119,000 by 2034

• Raise awareness of NZ as a study destination from 40% in 2024 to 44% by 2034

• Grow the share of prospective students ranking NZ in their top 3 choices from 18% in 2024 to 22% by 2034

The Government will also:

1. Launch a high-profile global branding campaign highlighting NZ’s unique advantages

2. Enhance engagement with education agents in key markets

3. Use AI-driven tools to support students 24/7

4. Develop market-specific plans and deliver more immersive in-market events like roadshows and fairs

5. Promote New Zealand’s collective higher education offering internationally

Other upcoming immigration and visa updates under consideration

As part of this growth plan, subject to Cabinet agreement, INZ may also:

• Introduce a new short-term (6-month) work visa for sub-degree graduates, helping them bridge to the Accredited Employer Work Visa

• Streamline student visa processes and requirements

• Review the Pathway Student Visa Pilot to possibly create multi-year visas for students on multi-year programmes

Why growing international education matters

• International students directly contribute $3–4 billion to New Zealand’s GDP, including around $1 billion in tuition fees

• Their spending supports jobs and generates tax revenue

• International education builds cultural connections and strengthens global trade and diplomacy links

• It helps diversify the economy beyond traditional commodity exports