As part of the Government’s International Education Going for Growth Plan, from 3 November 2025, a handful of new changes came into effect.
Student Work Hours
From 3 November, eligible students can work for 25 hours per week. This is a change from the previous 20 hours per week limit.
This will apply to all new student visas granted from that date (even if the application was submitted earlier). For students who are on existing visas who have the 20-hour limit, they can apply for a variation of conditions or a new student visa.
Immigration New Zealand states that:
“There are currently 40,987 student visa holders with in-study work rights. Of these, 29,790 visas are set to expire on or before 31 March 2026, while 11,197 will expire after that date.”
So, this will be good news for many students who would like to work for an additional 5 hours.
Other changes
There are also other changes to student visas that were announced.
Dependant child visitor visas and skilled migrant category interim visa holders may also be able to increase their work hours from 20 hours per week to 25 hours per week, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Immigration New Zealand has also extended the eligibility for in-study work rights to apply to all tertiary students who are on approved exchange or study abroad programs.
More changes coming
Immigration New Zealand is also exploring further changes, including a new short-term work visa for specific graduates. Details are not announced, and more information will be provided about this in the future.
Contact Richard Small and our friendly team for further details.