New Zealand to Increase Work Hours for International Students from 2025

By Jace August 10, 2025
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New Zealand will raise the limit on in-study work hours for international students from November 2025, as part of a major push to grow its international education sector.

Eligible student visa holders, along with all tertiary students in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, including one-semester courses, will be able to work up to 25 hours per week, an increase from the current 20-hour limit.

The change is part of the International Education Going for Growth Plan, which aims to double the sector’s economic contribution to $7.2 billion by 2034. Education New Zealand Chief Executive Amanda Malu said the move would make the country more attractive to prospective students, while supporting them financially during their studies.

Currently, most student visa holders can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during study periods and full-time during mid-year breaks and over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Those enrolled in doctoral or research master’s programmes already have unlimited work rights.

International student enrolments in New Zealand have surged by 21% compared to 2023, reaching 83,425 in 2024, around 72% of pre-pandemic levels. Master’s programmes have seen particularly strong growth, with a 68% increase year-on-year.

China and India remain the largest source markets, accounting for 34% and 14% of enrolments respectively, followed by Japan, South Korea, Thailand, the US, Germany, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.

The government hopes that expanding work rights will not only attract more students but also help fill labour shortages, while aligning education policy with the country’s broader economic goals.

With the revised rules, New Zealand strengthens its position as a competitive study destination, offering students more opportunities to gain work experience while contributing to the local economy. The Department of Immigration will release updated visa conditions and guidance ahead of the November 2025 rollout.

Source: FINANCIAL EXPRESS

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