New Work Hours for International Students in New Zealand Announced

International students in New Zealand will see an increase in their permitted working hours beginning on November 3, 2025. The government has revised student visa work rights to allow these students to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term. This change is part of the broader International Education Going for Growth Plan, aimed at strengthening the education sector while providing support for overseas students facing rising living costs.

The updated regulations apply to both tertiary and secondary school students holding valid student visas. Previously limited to 20 hours per week, students can now benefit from an additional five hours. This policy change will impact all new visas issued from November 3, including applications that are pending as of that date. Current visa holders with the 20-hour limit will have the option to apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa to access the increased work allowance.

Details of the Revised Work Policy

While the provision for full-time work during scheduled academic breaks remains unchanged, students in Years 12 and 13 must still obtain parental and school consent to work the extended hours. The new rules also expand in-study work rights to tertiary students participating in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, including those enrolled in one-semester courses. Additionally, holders of dependent child visitor visas and Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visas will now be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week, an increase from the previous 20 hours.

According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), these changes are designed to provide students with “greater opportunities for practical experience” while ensuring they maintain their academic focus. The department underscored that the policy intends to uphold education quality, manage immigration integrity, and support sustainable growth in the education sector.

To take advantage of the increased work hours, students must submit applications through Immigration Online or the INZ 1020 Variation of Conditions form, depending on their visa type and issue date. The application incurs a fee of NZ$325. Students with visas issued before August 18, 2025, should apply through the previous system, while those with newer visas must utilize the upgraded Immigration Online platform. INZ clarified that students changing education providers or reducing their level of study will generally need to apply for a new student visa, except in cases of unavoidable circumstances, such as institutional closures.

Implications for International Students

Current official data indicates that 40,987 student visa holders in New Zealand have in-study work rights, with nearly 30,000 visas set to expire by March 2026. This means that a significant majority could benefit from the new work regulations within the ongoing academic cycle. Authorities anticipate that the increased flexibility in working hours will enhance New Zealand’s attractiveness as a destination for international students, offering them additional financial support.

The government’s broader International Education Growth Plan features several upcoming initiatives, including a short-term work visa for vocational graduates and streamlined visa processes. These efforts further illustrate New Zealand’s commitment to establishing itself as a leading global hub for higher education.