🆕 Upcoming Changes to Student Visa Work Rights – Effective 3 November 2025

The New Zealand Government has announced changes under the International Education Going for Growth Plan to support sustainable growth and improve opportunities for international students.

Key updates include:

• 🕒 Increased work hours: Eligible student visa holders can work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term (previously 20 hours).

• 🌏 Expanded eligibility: Students in Study Abroad and exchange programmes (including 1-semester courses) now qualify for in-study work rights.

• 🛂 Visa requirements clarified: Students changing education providers or lowering their level of study must now apply for a new student visa, not a variation.

📣 Immigration New Zealand to Introduce New Vocational Graduate Work Visa

Expected: Late 2025 (Subject to Cabinet approval)

Immigration New Zealand is exploring a short-term work visa for eligible vocational course graduates, along with plans to streamline student visa and post-study work visa processes.

Stay connected for confirmed updates on this exciting development in New Zealand’s skilled migration pathway.

Why This Matters

These changes are designed to:

• Attract high-quality international students to New Zealand

• Align immigration policy with labour market needs

• Provide better study-to-work transition pathways

🔗 Learn more about these changes or contact our licensed immigration advisers for personalised guidance.