The New Zealand government has announced a series of immigration changes under its International Education Development Plan, first unveiled in July 2025. The initiative aims to promote sustainable growth in international education, attract more students from overseas, maintain educational standards and effectively manage immigration risks.
As of Nov. 3, eligible high school and middle school students are allowed to work up to 25 hours a week during their studies — more than the 20-hour limit. The higher work allowance applies to all new student visas issued from November 3, even if applications were submitted earlier.
Students currently on a visa with a 20-hour work limit who wish to work up to 25 hours will need to apply for a change of conditions or a new student visa. Most student visas already allow full-time work during the summer and other scheduled breaks, and those with this condition can apply for an additional five hours after the summer if their visa remains valid. 12- and 13-year-olds will still need parental and school permission to work while studying, even with the increased weekly limit.
There are currently 40,987 student visa holders with the right to work while studying. Of these, 29,790 visas expire before March 31, 2026, and 11,197 expire after that date. Immigration officials note that not all visa holders need to apply for the extra five hours immediately, as some may wait until the next visa extension or are nearing the end of their studies.
The government has also extended work-while-study rights to all tertiary students participating in approved exchange or study abroad programs, including one-semester courses, a change that should make New Zealand’s universities and colleges more attractive to international students.
Another key clarification is that students who change education provider or downgrade – for example, moving from a degree to a diploma – will now normally need to apply for a new student visa, rather than simply changing conditions. Exceptions will only apply in certain cases, such as when a provider closes unexpectedly.
In addition, holders of Child Visitor Visas and Temporary Skilled Migrant Visa holders will also benefit from the increase, as their part-time entitlements are increased from 20 to 25 hours per week.
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To apply for an extension of work rights, students can apply with different conditions through Immigration New Zealand’s online systems depending on when their visa was issued. The application fee is 325 New Zealand dollars.
Further measures, including the possible introduction of short-term work visas for vocational graduates and simplification of visa processes, are being explored and are still subject to Cabinet approval. For detailed information, students can visit the official website of International Education Ministry of Education — Going for Growth.
