New Zealand increases student visa work hours to 25 per week under new education plan

The New Zealand government has introduced new immigration measures designed to reinforce the country’s appeal as a global education hub. Under the International Education – Going for Growth Plan, the government has increased the weekly work-hour limit for international students and broadened access to work rights across study programmes.

Effective November 3, 2025, eligible tertiary and secondary students will be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during term time—up from the previous cap of 20 hours. The change applies to all new student visas issued after that date, regardless of when applications were lodged.

Current visa holders who wish to take advantage of the new limit will need to apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa. Most student visa holders can already work full-time during official breaks, and this latest move allows them to increase part-time work flexibility during study periods as well. However, secondary school students in Years 12 and 13 will still require both school and parental consent to work.

In a parallel reform, the government has extended in-study work rights to all tertiary students participating in approved exchange or study abroad programmes, including one-semester courses—a measure expected to enhance the competitiveness of New Zealand’s universities and institutes globally.

Further clarification has also been issued regarding students who switch education providers or downgrade their level of study; in most cases, these individuals will now be required to apply for a new visa.

Immigration New Zealand confirmed that the variation fee for the new work-hour approval is NZD $325. Officials say the move underscores the government’s intent to promote sustainable growth in international education while maintaining robust immigration oversight.