Upcoming changes to NZ student visa work rights and policy settings

The New Zealand Government announced the International Education Going for Growth Plan on 14 July 2025, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the country’s position as a global study destination. The plan sets an ambitious goal of doubling the international education sector’s value from $3.6 billion in 2024 to $7.2 billion by 2034, while maintaining high education standards and strong immigration controls. 

As part of this initiative, changes to student visa settings will take effect from 3 November 2025. These include increasing in-study work rights from 20 to 25 hours per week, extending work rights to more short-term tertiary students, and requiring a new visa when students switch to a lower-level course or a different education provider. 

Work rights extended to 25 hours per week 

From 3 November 2025, eligible international students will be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during term time, an increase from the current 20-hour limit. This change applies to both tertiary students and secondary school students in Years 12 and 13. Secondary students will still need written permission from both their school and a parent or guardian to work during their studies. 

The new 25-hour limit will automatically apply to all student visas granted on or after 3 November 2025, even if the application was submitted earlier. Students who already hold a visa issued before this date and want to access the extra hours must apply for a variation of conditions or submit a new student visa application. Standard immigration fees will apply. 

Some students may decide to delay this application. Many student visas already allow full-time work during summer and scheduled breaks, so depending on their visa expiry date, they may choose to include the change in their next visa application instead. 

Currently, 40,987 student visa holders have in-study work rights. Of these, 29,790 visas will expire on or before 31 March 2026, while 11,197 will expire after that date. Immigration New Zealand expects that not all students will apply immediately for the additional work hours. Many are likely to update their conditions during their next visa application. 

In-study work rights for more short-term tertiary students 

The changes also extend in-study work rights to all international tertiary students enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs, including one-semester courses. Previously, access to work rights during study was limited for certain short-term participants, creating inconsistencies across education pathways. The updated settings ensure that all international tertiary students on eligible programs can work during their course of study, providing greater equity and financial support. 

New visa required for provider or course-level changes 

From November 2025, international students who want to change their education provider or move to a lower-level course, such as switching from a bachelor’s degree to a diploma, will need to apply for a new student visa. Under current settings, these changes can often be made by applying for a variation of conditions to an existing visa. This will no longer be permitted once the new policy takes effect. 

The updated requirement allows Immigration New Zealand to reassess a student’s eligibility when there is a significant change to their study plans. It is intended to strengthen oversight of student visa compliance, prevent misuse of visa pathways, and maintain the integrity of New Zealand’s international education system. 

More student visa changes under review 

In addition to the confirmed changes taking effect in November 2025, the Government is also considering further student visa reforms, which are currently subject to Cabinet approval. One proposal under review is the introduction of a new short-term work visa specifically for international vocational graduates. This would provide eligible students with the opportunity to gain work experience in New Zealand after completing their studies. 

The Government is also planning to streamline the student visa application process through the enhanced Immigration Online platform, which is expected to go live in August 2025. These potential reforms reflect a broader strategy to attract high-value international students, improve the overall student experience, support graduate retention, and ensure immigration settings align with workforce needs. 

About the Going for Growth Plan 

The International Education Going for Growth Plan is the New Zealand Government’s strategic framework to revitalise the international education sector, which was significantly affected by the COVID-19 border closures. The plan sets out a series of short-, medium-, and long-term actions to enhance global marketing, improve the student experience, and strengthen regulatory settings across the sector. 

It also includes the development of a new government policy statement that is expected to replace the current International Education Strategy 2022–2030, subject to further government decisions. 

Preparing for changes to New Zealand’s student visa framework 

The policy updates coming into effect from November 2025 will affect student work rights, eligibility requirements, and visa conditions for course or provider changes. It is essential that education providers, employers, and students understand these changes to ensure compliance and informed decision-making. 

For tailored advice and strategic immigration support, contact our team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com. We can assist you in navigating these developments and aligning with New Zealand’s evolving international education settings.