New Zealand Expands Student Work Rights: What It Means for International Learners

Starting November 3, 2025, international students in New Zealand will be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during academic terms – an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. This shift is part of the government’s International Education: Going for Growth Plan, which aims to attract more global learners and support them both financially and professionally.

Previous Work Hour Criteria

Previously, student visa holders in New Zealand were allowed to:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms
• Work full-time during scheduled academic breaks
• Access work rights only if enrolled in full-time tertiary or exchange programs

This framework balanced the need for supplementary income with the priority of academic performance.

Importance of Part-Time Work for Students

• Part-time work helps students earn extra income to manage living costs
• It allows students to gain experience and understand New Zealand’s work culture
• Students develop employability skills like communication and time management
• Working while studying fosters independence and confidence

These benefits are recognized by the New Zealand Government as part of the broader student experience

Government’s Focus Behind the Change

The upcoming policy shift to allow 25 hours of work per week (effective November 3, 2025) reflects strategic goals:

• Enhance New Zealand’s global competitiveness in education
• Support student wellbeing amid rising living costs
• Improve graduate employability through increased workplace exposure
• Extend work rights to short-term exchange and Study Abroad students

These updates are part of the International Education: Going for Growth Plan, aiming to double the value of the international education sector by 2034

Impact on Current Students with 20-Hour Work Limits

According to Immigration New Zealand and the Variation of Conditions page:

• The new 25-hour work limit, effective November 3, 2025, will not automatically apply to current student visa holders.

Students who wish to benefit must either:

• Apply for a Variation of Conditions, or
• Apply for a new Student Visa if their current visa is nearing expiry.

Variation of Conditions Fee

The current fee for applying to vary your visa conditions – including increasing permitted work hours – is NZD $190. Immigration New Zealand processes such requests via their online portal.

How Current Students Can Upgrade Their Work Rights

As per Immigration New Zealand, the new 25-hour work limit (effective November 3, 2025) will not automatically apply to current student visa holders. To benefit from the increased hours, students must take steps to update their visa conditions.

While Immigration New Zealand provides a clear process for applying for a Variation of Conditions, students may find it beneficial to consult a licensed immigration adviser for tailored guidance—especially when navigating documentation, timing, or eligibility nuances.

The current fee for a Variation of Conditions is NZD $190, and applications are submitted via the official online portal. Students often choose to apply during academic breaks, when full-time work is already permitted, to avoid disruption.

Need Help Navigating the Process? As licensed immigration advisors, we’re here to make the transition smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re applying for a Variation of Conditions, exploring your eligibility, or planning your future in New Zealand, you can contact us for expert guidance and support. We’ll help ensure your application is prepared thoroughly and submitted accurately.