Highlights: New Zealand Introduces New Work Rights for Students in 2025
- From November 2025, international students in New Zealand can work full-time during university breaks and part-time during semesters.
- Degree students will no longer have hourly work limits, offering more flexibility in balancing work and study.
- The update aims to address New Zealand’s skills shortage, allowing students to work in high-demand sectors like healthcare, IT, and engineering.
- The government encourages students to gain work experience in high-skill sectors, contributing to both their career development and the economy.
- Students completing level 7 or above qualifications will find it easier to apply for post-study work visas, facilitating long-term work opportunities in New Zealand.
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Upcoming Changes to New Zealand’s Student Visa Work Rights: What’s New in 2025?
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced the International Education Going for Growth Plan on July 14, 2025. The country is set to introduce important changes to its student visa work rights starting in 2025. These updates aim to provide international students with more flexibility and opportunities to work while studying in the country. The changes also focus on addressing New Zealand’s ongoing skills shortage by allowing students to gain relevant work experience in key industries.
Here are the key updates for students planning to study in New Zealand:
- Full-time work during breaks: Starting 2025, international students can work full-time during university holidays, in addition to their part-time work during the academic year.
- No work limits for degree students: Students enrolled in degree-level programs will no longer face restrictions on working hours, allowing them to gain more practical experience.
- Work in high-demand sectors: Students will have greater flexibility to work in sectors like healthcare, IT, and engineering, which are facing labor shortages.
- Post-study work opportunities: Students who complete level 7 or higher qualifications will find it easier to apply for post-study work visas, enabling them to gain work experience in New Zealand after graduation.
- Support for skills development: The changes are designed to help students gain the skills needed by New Zealand's economy, ensuring they can contribute effectively to high-skill industries.
Note: These changes are set to make studying and working in New Zealand more attractive, offering Indian students’ greater flexibility and opportunities to build their careers in a competitive global market.
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How New Zealand’s New Student Visa Changes Open Up Opportunities for Indian Students
The recent changes to New Zealand’s student visa work rights present a significant opportunity for Indian students seeking quality education and international career prospects. With the increased flexibility in working hours, extended post-study work options, and focus on high-demand sectors, these updates enhance New Zealand’s appeal as a study destination.
As the global demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, these changes ensure that students not only receive top-notch education but also have the chance to gain valuable work experience that will benefit their careers in the long term. New Zealand remains committed to fostering global talent, making it an excellent choice for Indian students aiming to build a successful future abroad.
For Indian students planning to study in New Zealand, these changes make the process more accessible and provide greater opportunities to succeed both academically and professionally.
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