New Zealand announces new rule allowing students to work 25 hours weekly. Apply now!

Highlights: New Zealand Expands Student Work Rights to 25 Hours Weekly

• New Zealand has officially extended international student work rights to 25 hours per week, effective November 3, 2025.
• The new policy applies to all student visas issued on or after November 3, including previously submitted applications.
• Around 40,987 student visa holders are expected to benefit, with 30,000 visas expiring by March 2026.
• The rule now covers tertiary, secondary, and Study Abroad students, including those enrolled for one semester.
• This reform supports New Zealand’s plan to grow its international education sector and attract more global learners.

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Revised Work Rights in New Zealand: What International Students Need to Know

New Zealand’s new regulation allows international students to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term — an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. The update offers greater flexibility for students to gain local experience, support living costs, and integrate into New Zealand’s workforce while pursuing their studies.

The new rule applies to:

• New student visas issued from November 3, 2025, including applications submitted before this date.
• Existing visa holders with 20-hour limits, who can apply for a Variation of Conditions (INZ 1020 form) or a new student visa to access the 25-hour work right.
• Tertiary and secondary school students (Years 12 and 13), subject to parental and school approval.
• Exchange and Study Abroad students, even those enrolled in one-semester programs.

The government has also extended this benefit to dependent child visitor visa holders and Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visa holders, allowing them to work up to 25 hours a week.
 

Importantly, the existing rule permitting full-time work during scheduled academic breaks remains unchanged, ensuring students can continue to maximize their work experience during holidays.
 

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New Zealand ranks high among global study hubs for Indian students. Apply now!

 

How to Apply for the 25-Hour Work Permission in New Zealand

International students who wish to increase their weekly work hours to 25 must submit an application based on the issue date of their current student visa. The process has been made simpler through the enhanced Immigration New Zealand (INZ) online systems.
 

Application process overview:

• For visas issued before August 18, 2025: Apply using the previous visa application system.
• For visas issued on or after August 18, 2025: Submit your application through the new Immigration Online platform.

The application fee for both methods is NZ $325. Students must ensure that any change in education provider or course level is updated accurately. In most cases, such changes require a new student visa rather than a variation of conditions.
 

Note: Exceptions may apply if the changes occur due to factors beyond the student’s control, such as institution closures or course cancellations.
 

This step ensures that students comply with immigration regulations while taking advantage of the expanded 25-hour work rights introduced under New Zealand’s new international education policy.
 

*Want to work in New Zealand? Let Y-Axis assist you with the process.

 

Government’s Objective behind the Work Rights Policy

The New Zealand government introduced this reform to make the country more competitive in attracting international students, particularly from key markets like India, China, and Southeast Asia.
 

According to Immigration New Zealand, this change is intended to:

• Enhance international students’ work experience while maintaining strong academic performance.
• Help students manage higher living expenses, which have risen significantly in recent years.
• Support the sustainable growth of the education sector as part of the International Education Going for Growth Plan (2025-2030).
• Address skill shortages by giving students practical exposure to New Zealand’s job market.
• Strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a welcome, globally competitive education hub.

The reform is expected to benefit over 40,000 international students, providing them with greater opportunities to gain work experience while studying. This move is also aligned with the government’s goal of rebuilding the international education sector post-pandemic and supporting local industries that rely on part-time student workers.
 

Also, read…

New Zealand to expand Skilled Occupation List from 3rd Nov 2025. Check if you qualify!

 

What the 25-Hour Work Policy Means for Indian Students in New Zealand

For Indian students, who represent one of the largest international student communities in New Zealand, the new 25-hour work rule brings multiple benefits — both financial and career-oriented. This policy not only enhances affordability but also improves opportunities for real-world experience and long-term settlement.
 

Key advantages for Indian students:

• Higher earning potential: The 25-hour limit allows students to take on more work and earn additional income to manage tuition fees and living expenses.
• Wider career exposure: Extended work hours mean more chances to gain industry-relevant experience in areas such as IT, hospitality, and business — fields where Indian students are highly active.
• Pathway to skilled migration: Work experience gained during studies can strengthen eligibility for future visa categories such as the Skilled Migrant Visa or post-study work visas.
• Better work-life balance: The added flexibility makes it easier for students to organize study and work schedules effectively.
• Enhanced settlement prospects: Gaining in-country professional experience improves long-term opportunities for those considering permanent residence in New Zealand.

This policy strengthens New Zealand’s appeal as a destination that not only offers quality education but also supports international students — especially Indians — in building successful global careers.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new work-hour rules for international students in New Zealand?

From November 2025, international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours per week during academic term time, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. The updated rule applies to eligible full-time students enrolled in Level 4 or higher courses, as well as approved exchange or Study Abroad programs. This change was introduced to make New Zealand more attractive to global students and help them better manage living expenses through part-time work while studying. It also aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen the international education sector.

From when do the new work-hour rules for international students in New Zealand come into effect?

The revised work-hour rules for international students come into effect from November 3, 2025. Any student visa approved on or after this date will include the new 25-hour per week work condition. Students who currently hold visas with the previous 20-hour limit can apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa to access the updated allowance. The rule is part of New Zealand’s effort to attract and retain skilled international students by offering more flexibility and better financial opportunities during their study period.

How many hours can international students now work in New Zealand under the new policy?

Under the new policy, eligible international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours per week during term time. During scheduled breaks, such as holidays, they may work full-time if their visa allows it. This change gives students more flexibility to balance their academic and financial responsibilities. The 25-hour limit is designed to help students gain practical experience while ensuring that employment does not interfere with their studies. It also reflects New Zealand’s commitment to supporting students amid rising living costs.

Do the new work-hour rules apply to all international students in New Zealand?

The new 25-hour rule applies only to eligible full-time international students studying at Level 4 or higher on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework or those enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs. Some senior secondary students in Years 12 and 13 may also qualify with parental and school permission. However, students enrolled in part-time, short-term, or lower-level courses do not qualify for extended work rights. The updated rule ensures that students engaged in meaningful academic programs have better opportunities to gain work experience while studying in New Zealand.

What are the eligibility requirements to work longer hours while studying in New Zealand?

To be eligible to work up to 25 hours per week, international students must hold a valid full-time student visa for a course at Level 4 or higher, or be enrolled in an approved exchange or Study Abroad program. The visa must include work rights, and students must comply with all visa conditions. Secondary school students in Years 12 or 13 need written consent from both their school and parents. Students already holding a 20-hour limit may apply for a variation of conditions to benefit from the new rule.

How do the new rules benefit international students studying in New Zealand?

The new work-hour rules provide international students with more opportunities to earn income and gain local work experience while pursuing their studies. Increasing the limit from 20 to 25 hours per week helps students better manage rising living costs and build professional skills. The change also makes New Zealand a more appealing destination for global learners, aligning with the government’s goal of revitalizing the international education sector. It allows students to experience a more balanced lifestyle, combining quality education with meaningful work exposure.

Will the new work-hour policy impact post-study work visa opportunities in New Zealand?

The new policy primarily affects in-study work rights and does not directly alter post-study work visa regulations. However, the extended work allowance allows students to gain more New Zealand work experience during their studies, which can enhance their employability and strengthen future visa or residency applications. While the new rule does not automatically change post-study visa pathways, it supports students in building professional connections and gaining local experience that could be valuable when applying for post-study or skilled work visas.

Are there any restrictions on the type of jobs international students can do under the new rules?

Yes. International students must comply with the terms of their student visa, meaning they can only engage in lawful, paid employment and cannot be self-employed unless specifically authorized. They must not exceed the permitted 25 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed only during scheduled academic breaks if stated in the visa conditions. Jobs that may interfere with studies or breach visa terms are prohibited. These restrictions ensure that academic performance remains the student’s primary focus while studying in New Zealand.

How does the new rule affect dependents of international students in New Zealand?

The new work-hour rule applies only to international students holding eligible student visas. It does not automatically extend additional work rights to dependents. Dependents’ work or study privileges continue to depend on their own visa category and the principal applicant’s course level. For example, partners of students enrolled in postgraduate or high-demand qualifications may still qualify for open work visas under existing rules. Families should check their visa conditions carefully or consult Immigration New Zealand for clarification on dependent entitlements.

What should current and prospective students know before applying to study in New Zealand under the new work-hour regulations?

Students planning to study in New Zealand after November 2025 should know that eligible student visas will automatically include the updated 25-hour per week work limit. This offers more flexibility to earn income and gain experience while studying. Current visa holders with a 20-hour limit can apply for a variation of conditions to benefit from the change. Students must ensure they meet all academic and visa requirements, as maintaining good academic standing remains crucial for compliance and future visa applications in New Zealand.