Archive · 10 Aug 2025
NZ to Increase Student Work Hours, Boost Education Sector
New Zealand is changing the rules for international students who want to work.
Starting in November 2025, students will be allowed to work more hours.
Students with certain visas can work up to 25 hours a week, instead of the current 20.
This includes students in special exchange programs.
These changes are part of a plan to increase the amount of money the international education sector brings in.
More students are coming to New Zealand to study, especially for master's degrees.
China and India are the countries with the most students in New Zealand.
New Zealand will increase working hours for international students in November 2025.
Eligible student visa holders will have their in-study work hours increased from 20 to 25 hours per week.
In-study work rights will extend to all tertiary students in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs.
The changes are part of the International Education Going for Growth Plan, aiming to double the sector's economic contribution by 2034.
International student enrollments in New Zealand are up 21% compared to 2023.
- Who
- International students with eligible visas and those in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs.
- What
- New Zealand will increase working hours for international students.
- When
- Starting November 2025.
- Where
- New Zealand.
- Why
- Part of the International Education Going for Growth Plan, aiming to increase the economic contribution of the international education sector.
- Working Hours Increase
- From 20 to 25 hours per week
- Effective Date
- November 2025
- Target
- $7.2 billion by 2034
- Student Enrolment Increase (2024)
- 21% increase from 2023
- Master's Program Enrolment Increase
- 68% between 2023 and 2024