New Zealand Expands Student Work Rights and Exchange Opportunities Under Its Education Growth Plan
In a major boost to its international education sector, the New Zealand government has unveiled a series of immigration and education policy reforms under its “International Education: Going for Growth Plan”. Announced in July 2025 and now being implemented, these reforms are designed to promote sustainable growth, attract more international students, and enhance the country’s education ecosystem while maintaining high standards and managing immigration risks effectively.
One of the most impactful changes, effective from November 3, 2025, is the increase in weekly work-hour limits for eligible tertiary and secondary students. Students can now work up to 25 hours per week during study periods — up from the previous 20-hour cap. This change marks a significant step towards giving international students more financial flexibility and real-world experience during their studies in New Zealand.
A Boost to Work Opportunities for Students
Under the new rules, all new student visas granted from November 3, 2025, will automatically include the updated 25-hour work limit, even if the visa applications were submitted prior to that date.
For students currently holding a visa that restricts them to 20 hours of work per week, the government has outlined a clear pathway to upgrade. These students will need to apply for either a variation of conditions or a new student visa to enjoy the additional five-hour work benefit.
Immigration New Zealand clarified that the application for increased work rights can be completed through its online systems, with a processing fee of NZD $325. The eligibility and process depend on the issuance date of the current visa.
Most student visas already allow full-time work during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays. Students with this provision can opt to apply for the extra five hours after their vacation period if their visa remains valid.
Importantly, secondary school students in Years 12 and 13 will still require written permission from both their parents and school authorities before engaging in part-time work, even under the expanded allowance.
The Numbers Behind the Change
According to government data, there are currently 40,987 student visa holders in New Zealand who possess in-study work rights. Of these, around 29,790 visas are due to expire on or before March 31, 2026, while 11,197 visas will remain valid beyond that date.
Officials expect that not all students will immediately apply for the increased work limit. Many may wait until their visa renewal period or choose not to apply if they are nearing the completion of their studies.
The gradual uptake of this change will, however, ensure a smooth transition as students and institutions adapt to the new framework.
Exchange and Study Abroad Programmes Get a Boost
In a move that further enhances New Zealand’s global education appeal, the government has also extended in-study work rights to all tertiary students enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes — including those pursuing short-term, one-semester courses.
This change is expected to make New Zealand universities and colleges more attractive to international learners, especially those from countries seeking high-quality education experiences with flexible work options.
The decision reflects the country’s broader strategy to position itself as a top-tier global education destination, balancing academic excellence with practical, real-world exposure for students.
Clearer Visa Conditions and Regulatory Updates
Alongside work-hour expansions, the New Zealand government has also clarified visa conditions for students who change their course or education provider.
Under the updated regulations:
- Students who switch their education provider or lower their qualification level (for example, moving from a degree to a diploma) will generally be required to apply for a new student visa, rather than a variation of conditions.
- Exceptions will be made only in limited cases, such as when a provider closes unexpectedly.
This change ensures that the government can maintain accurate oversight of academic transitions while safeguarding education quality standards and immigration integrity.
Extended Benefits Beyond Students
The New Zealand government has also expanded the increased part-time work rights to other visa categories.
Holders of dependent child visitor visas and those on Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visas will also now be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit.
This inclusion broadens the reach of the reform, offering more flexibility to families of migrant workers and skilled professionals residing in the country.
Applying for the New Work Rights
Eligible students can apply for the increased work rights through Immigration New Zealand’s online portal. Depending on when their visa was issued, they can file a variation of conditions application or apply for a new student visa.
The application fee for this process is NZD $325. Students are encouraged to check their eligibility and follow the detailed guidelines provided on the Ministry of Education’s official website under the International Education — Going for Growth section.
The government also reassured applicants that the online process will be straightforward and transparent, with clear timelines and dedicated support for international students.
Looking Ahead: Further Reforms Under Review
As part of its long-term Education Growth Plan, the New Zealand government is exploring additional reforms to further support international students and strengthen its global education footprint.
Among the upcoming proposals under review are:
- A short-term work visa specifically tailored for vocational graduates, enabling them to gain hands-on experience after completing their courses.
- Streamlined visa processes to simplify the application and renewal procedures for students and institutions.
These future measures, once approved by the Cabinet, are expected to make New Zealand’s education system more dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of global learners.
