New Zealand increases student work hour limit

In a significant move to enhance its global education appeal, the New Zealand government has introduced the "International Education: Going for Growth Plan," a comprehensive strategy aimed at doubling the economic value of the education sector by 2034. The plan includes reforms in international student work rights, visa policies, and student support systems, positioning New Zealand as an attractive alternative amidst tightening visa regulations in countries like the US and Canada.

Work rights expanded

A key highlight is the decision to increase in-study work hours for international students from 20 to 25 hours per week, starting from November 3, 2025. This change will apply to all new student visas issued from that date, regardless of the application submission time. Existing visa holders can also access the additional hours by applying for a variation of conditions or a new visa, subject to standard immigration fees. International students will maintain full-time work rights during scheduled academic breaks, as specified on their visas. Furthermore, in-study work rights will now include students enrolled in approved one-semester Exchange or Study Abroad programs, as well as secondary school students in Years 12 and 13, with written permission from parents and school authorities.

New visa requirements and pathways

The government has also announced stricter compliance measures: students who change education providers or downgrade their course level will now need to apply for a new visa, replacing the previous option of requesting a variation. This change aims to enhance oversight and transparency. Additionally, a six-month post-study work visa for vocational (sub-degree) graduates has been proposed to facilitate the transition to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) pathway. Efforts are also underway to simplify access to multi-year student visas, making long-term study more feasible.

Ambitious growth targets

New Zealand's ambitious "International Education: Going for Growth Plan" establishes long-term goals to reinforce its position as a premier global study destination. The country aims to nearly double the economic contribution of international education and significantly increase student enrollments by 2034. Key growth metrics outlined in the plan include:

• Total international student enrollments: Targeted to grow from 83,400 in 2024 to 119,000 by 2034

• Economic contribution: Expected to increase from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion

• Global ranking as a study destination: Aiming to improve from 18% to 22% in the Top 3 preference rate among global students

In 2024, each international student spent an average of NZ$45,000 per year, significantly benefiting New Zealand's broader economy, particularly sectors like hospitality, housing, retail, and tourism. These economic spillover effects are a key rationale for expanding education access and support systems for international learners.

Stronger student support and digital services

The Going for Growth Plan also includes significant investments in student welfare, such as:

• 24/7 digital support platforms

• Enhanced mental health services

• Quality accommodation initiatives

• A transition to a fully digital visa processing system, ensuring quicker decisions and improved communication.

What comes next

Looking ahead, the implementation of New Zealand's student-focused reforms will be phased in. The 25-hour in-study work limit will officially start on November 3, 2025, allowing new student visa holders to work additional hours during academic terms. Meanwhile, the new visa rules requiring fresh applications for students who change their education provider or downgrade their course level are already in effect. Concurrently, the government is actively developing multi-year student visas and a short-duration post-study work visa for sub-degree graduates to facilitate smoother transitions into the workforce. TOI Education is now on WhatsApp. Follow us here.

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