Provide All Relevant Information - Submit Query

Student Visa

Profile Check Form

Click Here ×
S
t
u
d
e
n
t

V
i
s
a

Get in Touch

    New Zealand Student Visa Work Hours Increased to 25 Hours/Week – What You Need to Know

    Government Launches International Education Going for Growth Plan

    On Monday, 14 July 2025, the New Zealand Government officially announced the International Education Going for Growth Plan, a bold step aimed at:

    • Supporting sustainable economic growth
    • Attracting more international students
    • Maintaining high education standards
    • Managing immigration risks responsibly

    As part of this plan, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is making important changes to student visa conditions, effective from 3 November 2025.

    Increased In-Study Work Hours

    Starting 3 November 2025, eligible tertiary and senior secondary (Years 12–13) international students will be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic semester—up from the current 20-hour limit.

    This new rule will apply to:

    • All new student visas granted on or after 3 November 2025
    • Applications already submitted but granted after this date

    Already on a 20-hour visa?

    You’ll need to apply for a variation of conditions or new visa to benefit from the 25-hour policy. Standard INZ application fees will apply.

    • Summer breaks and holidays: Most student visas already allow full-time work during breaks. If that applies to you, you may choose to delay applying for the extra 5 hours until after your break.
    • Secondary school students (Years 12 and 13): You’ll still need written permission from both your school and parents to work up to 25 hours a week.

    Work Rights Extended to Exchange Students

    INZ will also extend in-study work rights to:

    • All tertiary-level exchange and Study Abroad students
    • Including those enrolled in short-term (1 semester) programmes

    This change ensures greater equity for all types of international learners and offers more opportunities for cultural and professional integration.

    New Visa Required for Changes in Study Path

    If you:

    • Switch to a new education provider, or
    • Move to a lower level of study

    You must apply for a new student visa rather than requesting a simple variation. This ensures better tracking and integrity within the student visa system.

    Current Stats & Outlook

    As of July 2025:

    • 40,987 student visa holders currently have in-study work rights
      • 29,790 visas expire on or before 31 March 2026
      • 11,197 visas will expire after that date

    Not all visa holders are expected to seek the 5-hour upgrade. Some may wait to include it in their next visa application, while others near graduation may opt out.

    What’s Next?

    Subject to Cabinet approval, INZ is also exploring:

    • A new short-term work visa (up to 6 months) for some vocational graduates
    • Streamlined visa processing, including multi-year visas and improved graduate-to-work pathways

    Stay tuned—more updates will be released as they are confirmed.

    Final Thoughts

    These policy changes reflect New Zealand’s commitment to supporting international students and enhancing its global education reputation. With more work hours, greater inclusivity, and clearer visa protocols, students will enjoy improved opportunities to earn, learn, and thrive in Aotearoa.

    Reach out to Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd on contact@nzimmigration.info for expert advice tailored to your situation.

    INZ Update: Wage Threshold Changes for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

    Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced updates to wage thresholds for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), effective 18 August 2025. These changes reflect the June 2024 median wage of $33.56 per hour and are part of INZ’s commitment to maintaining a fair, consistent, and responsive immigration system.

    Key Updates:

    • Twice the median wage ($67.12/hour or more): Workers may be exempt from the labor market test and minimum skills threshold.
    • 1.5 times the median wage ($50.34/hour or more): Workers may qualify for a maximum continuous stay of 5 years on an AEWV.

    The updated thresholds ensure visa settings remain aligned with New Zealand’s job market, helping to protect local wages while supporting employers in accessing the skilled workers they need.

    These changes are designed to strike a balance between protecting local wages and providing employers with the ability to fill critical skill shortages. By aligning visa criteria with the latest median wage, INZ is ensuring the system remains fair and responsive to the needs of both migrant workers and NZ employers.

    The Accredited Employer Work Visa is a key pathway for skilled workers to contribute to New Zealand’s economy, and these updates reflect INZ’s ongoing efforts to support a thriving labour market.

    For more details, visit here.

    From Application to Approval: Navigating the New Zealand Partnership Visa Process

    New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm, inclusive communities. But what truly sets this nation apart is its commitment to bringing people together, especially when it comes to love and family. The New Zealand Partnership Visa exemplifies this value, offering a path for couples to reunite, build their lives together, and share their dreams in this beautiful land.

    What is the New Zealand Partnership Visa?

    The Partnership Visa is designed for individuals who are in a genuine, stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident. Whether you’re married, in a civil union, or in a long-term de facto partnership, this visa helps bridge the gap, allowing couples to live, work, and thrive together in New Zealand.

    For many, it’s more than just a piece of paperwork. It’s a doorway to a life shared, free from the barriers of distance and separation.

    Why Choose New Zealand?

    New Zealand isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to belong. With a strong emphasis on family values, social harmony, and inclusivity, this country provides the perfect environment for couples to create meaningful memories and establish a life together. From enjoying outdoor adventures to raising a family in a safe and supportive community, New Zealand celebrates the idea of partnership in every sense.

    The Benefits of the Partnership Visa

    This visa offers more than just the ability to stay in New Zealand. It unlocks countless opportunities for growth and connection. Some of the key benefits include:

    • Working Freedom: Many partnership visas allow you to work for any employer in New Zealand, giving couples financial stability as they settle into their new lives.
    • Access to Education and Healthcare: Depending on your visa type, you may have access to subsidized healthcare and education, ensuring you and your partner can flourish together.
    • A Path to Residency: For many, the partnership visa is a step toward becoming a permanent resident, opening up even more possibilities for the future.

    But perhaps the greatest benefit is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that you can be together, without the constraints of travel restrictions or temporary stays, is priceless.

    The Application Process

    Applying for a Partnership Visa may seem daunting, but with the right information and support, it can be a smooth process. Here’s a general outline of what’s involved:

    1. Demonstrate a Genuine and Stable Relationship: You and your partner will need to provide evidence of your relationship, such as joint bank accounts, photos, tenancy agreements, or statutory declarations from friends and family.
    2. Meet Character and Health Requirements: Like other visa applications, you’ll need to show that you meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.
    3. Gather Supporting Documents: Make sure your application is thorough and includes all required documents. This may include passports, identity documents, and proof of your partner’s New Zealand citizenship or residency.
    4. Submit Your Application: Applications can often be submitted online, but it’s important to double-check the latest guidelines on Immigration New Zealand’s website.

    It’s worth noting that every partnership is unique. Seeking professional advice from Licensed Immigration Advisers at Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd can make a significant difference, helping you understand the requirements specific to your situation and ensuring your application highlights the strength of your relationship.

    Tips for a Successful Application

    To improve your chances of approval, consider these practical tips:

    • Be Thorough and Honest: Provide as much relevant detail as possible, and always present truthful information.
    • Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines and ensure you provide all the required documentation.
    • Seek Guidance: Immigration policies and processes can be complex. Consulting a licensed immigration adviser can provide clarity and reduce stress.
    • Be Patient: Processing times can vary, so prepare for potential delays and maintain open communication with Immigration New Zealand.

    Reuniting Hearts, Building Lives

    At its core, the New Zealand Partnership Visa is about more than just logistics and paperwork. It’s a recognition of the importance of relationships and the belief that love and family should never be hindered by borders.

    If you and your partner dream of building your future together in New Zealand, there’s no better time to start your Partnership Visa application along with the primary applicant on an eligible visa to support you. Take the first step toward creating a shared life full of opportunity, adventure, and connection.

    Take Action Today

    Navigating the immigration process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Seek advice from a trusted immigration expert to guide you through the steps and increase your chances of success. Start your application today, and bring your partner closer, together, you can make Aotearoa your home, building not just a life, but a legacy of shared dreams and experiences.

    Contact Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd at contact@nzimmigration.info now.