New Zealand Student Visa Work Rights Update – What International Students Need to Know (2026)
New Zealand is continuously adapting its student visa policies to make the country more attractive and supportive for international students. One of the most important updates affecting those planning to study in New Zealand in 2026 is the change in work rights for student visa holders. These reforms aim to help students better manage living costs, gain valuable work experience, and enhance the overall appeal of studying in Aotearoa (New Zealand).
Increased Part-Time Work Hours for Students
From 3 November 2025 onwards, New Zealand has increased the number of hours that eligible international students can work during academic terms from 20 hours per week to 25 hours per week. This applies to all new student visas granted from that date, even if the visa application was submitted prior to the change. Immigration New Zealand
- The increase to 25 hours per week helps students better cover living expenses and gain practical workplace exposure while pursuing full-time study.
- During scheduled academic breaks and holidays, students may continue to work full-time, subject to the conditions of their student visa. Immigration New Zealand
This new rule applies broadly to eligible international students, including those on tertiary, secondary, exchange, and study abroad programmes.
Who Gets These Work Rights?
To benefit from the 25-hour work allowance:
- You must hold a valid New Zealand student visa that permits work.
- You must be enrolled in a full-time course with an NZQA-recognised provider at Level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
- Secondary school students in Years 12 and 13 may also work up to 25 hours per week with written permission from their school and parents. Immigration New Zealand
If your current visa still has the previous 20-hour condition, you may apply for a Variation of Conditions (using form INZ 1020) to take advantage of the extended work hours. Immigration New Zealand
Why This Change Matters
This reform is part of New Zealand’s broader strategy to grow its international education sector and support students financially and professionally. With rising living costs globally, the increased work hours offer:
✔ Better financial support during study
✔ Enhanced opportunities for professional development
✔ Improved employability through local work experience
✔ Greater appeal as a study destination compared to other countries with tighter work restrictions The Economic Times
For many international students, the additional five hours per week can make a significant difference in balancing study expenses and gaining work experience relevant to future careers.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
- The new work rule is not automatic for all visas: check your visa details or apply for a Variation of Conditions if needed.
- Work rights vary depending on your visa conditions, institution, and course level. Always check your eVisa letter for specific terms. Immigration New Zealand
- Full-time work is typically permitted during scheduled academic breaks if your visa includes that condition. Immigration New Zealand
- This change primarily affects in-study work rights and does not directly alter post-study work visa policies, which are governed separately.
Final Thoughts
The increased allowance from 20 to 25 hours per week represents a meaningful shift in New Zealand’s approach to international student support. It gives students more flexibility to earn while they learn and helps make the country a more competitive and student-friendly study destination for 2026 and beyond.
For personalized guidance on how these changes affect your New Zealand study plans, Study Nations can help you with visa eligibility, course selection, job-fit advice, and step-by-step application support.