Government Introduces New Strategy to
Boost International Education
Government Introduces New Strategy to
Boost International Education
On Monday, 14 July 2025, the New Zealand Government officially launched the International Education: Going for Growth Plan—a bold initiative focused on:
- Driving sustainable economic growth
- Attracting more international students
- Upholding high standards in education
- Responsibly managing immigration risks
As part of this strategy, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will introduce key changes to student visa conditions, effective from 3 November 2025.
Increased In-Study Work Hours:
Effective 3 November 2025, eligible international students enrolled in tertiary education and senior secondary school (Years 12–13) will be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during academic terms, an increase from the current 20-hour limit.
This change applies to:
- All new student visas approved on or after 3 November 2025
- Existing applications submitted earlier but approved after this date
Already on a 20-Hour Work Visa?
During holidays and summer breaks:
Most student visas already permit full-time work during these periods. If this applies to you, you might consider waiting to apply for the extra 5 hours until after your break.
Secondary school students (Years 12 and 13):
You’ll still need written consent from both your school and parents to work up to 25 hours per week.
Work Rights Now Extended to Exchange Students
INZ will now grant in-study work rights to:
- All tertiary-level exchange students
- All Study Abroad students, including those enrolled in short-term (1-semester) programmes
This move promotes greater fairness and offers more chances for international students to gain real-world experience and cultural integration.
Changing Your Course or Education Provider?
If you:
- Change your education provider, or
- Shift to a lower level of study
You’ll need to apply for a new student visa—a simple variation won’t be enough. This change helps maintain system integrity and ensures better tracking of students.
Student Visa Stats as of July 2025
If you:
- 40,987 student visa holders currently have in-study work rights
- 29,790 of these visas will expire on or before 31 March 2026
- 11,197 will expire after that date
Not all students are expected to apply for the extra 5-hour work increase immediately—some may wait to include it in their next visa application, while others nearing graduation may choose not to apply.
What’s Ahead?
Subject to Cabinet approval, INZ is also considering:
- A new short-term work visa (up to 6 months) for vocational graduates
- Simplified visa processing, including multi-year visas and clearer graduate-to-work pathways
Stay tuned for further updates as these proposals are finalised.
Final Thoughts
These upcoming changes highlight New Zealand’s dedication to supporting international students and strengthening its reputation in global education. With increased work opportunities, extended rights, and clearer processes, students can look forward to a more enriching and supportive experience in Aotearoa.
Have a question?
Read our FAQs
What is the new strategy announced by the New Zealand Government?
The Government has launched the “International Education: Going for Growth” Plan, a forward-looking strategy aimed at expanding and enhancing New Zealand’s international education sector.
What are the main goals of this strategy?
- Supporting sustainable economic growth
- Attracting more international students
- Maintaining high-quality education standards
- Responsibly managing immigration and visa settings
Why is this strategy important for New Zealand?
International education contributes significantly to New Zealand’s economy, culture, and global reputation. This strategy aims to futureproof the sector, respond to changing global trends, and increase New Zealand’s competitiveness in the global education market.
Who benefits from this new 25-hour work rule?
This change applies to:
- New student visas granted on or after 3 November 2025
- Applications already submitted but approved after that date It applies to eligible tertiary students and senior secondary students (Years 12–13)
Where can I learn more or get help with student visa changes?
- Visit the Immigration New Zealand website
- Contact a licensed immigration adviser
- Email Visa Box for personalised advice on study or dependent visa options