New visa rules for international students in 2026: New Zealand

New Zealand’s new immigration settings, effective 3 November 2025, offer greater work flexibility and clearer post-study options for international students.

1. Increased in-study work hours

• Eligible students can now work 25 hours per week (up from 20).

• Applies to tertiary and secondary students, Study Abroad/exchange students (including 1-semester courses), and holders of dependent child visitor or Skilled Migrant Category Interim Visas.

• Current visa holders must apply for a ‘Variation of Conditions’ to access the extra 5 hours.

2. Work rights for exchange & short-term students

All tertiary exchange and Study Abroad students now receive in-study work rights.

3. New visa requirements

• If students change their education provider or lower their study level, most will now need to apply for a new student visa—not just a variation.

• Applications must be submitted through the upgraded Immigration Online system.

This apart, the other changes introduced by the government are:

1. Strengthened post-study pathways

• Students completing a Level 7 qualification or higher will find it easier to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa.

• PGDip (Postgraduate Diploma) graduates can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa within 12 months of their initial student visa expiring.

• Post-study opportunities are particularly strong in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction.

2. Enhanced digital platform

Immigration New Zealand has moved to the upgraded Immigration Online system for student visa applications.

3. Full-time work during holidays

• Full-time students can work full-time during scheduled breaks, provided their course is at least one academic year, 120 credits, and two semesters.

• Master’s by research and PhD students continue to have unlimited work rights.

4. Future considerations

Government is considering a 6-month short-term work visa and exploring options for multi-year student visas as part of its "International Education: Going for Growth" plan.

5. New skilled migrant pathways

Two new residence pathways to open from August 2026, creating clearer long-term options for skilled graduates.

• Skilled Work Experience Pathway: For migrants in skilled roles (ANZSCO skill levels 1–3) with at least 5 years of directly relevant work experience, including 2 years in New Zealand at a minimum of 1.1 times the median wage.

• Trades & Technician Pathway: For migrants in specified technicians or trade roles, holding a Level-4 or higher qualification, plus 4 years of post-qualification skilled work experience, including 18 months in the country with pay at or above the median wage.

Studying in New Zealand offers greater flexibility and clearer post-study options, but understanding the visa rules is key to making the right choices. IDP supports you at every stage, so you can plan your studies with confidence.

We help you:

• Choose Level 7 and above courses that align with Post-Study Work Visa rules

• Understand in-study work rights, including the new 25 hours per week limit

• Check visa requirements if you change providers or study levels

• Prepare accurate student visa applications through the Immigration Online system

• Explore post-study and skilled migrant pathways linked to high-demand sectors

With IDP, you also get free, unbiased advice on course selection, IELTS preparation, visa guidance, accommodation, and pre-departure support. Our counsellors stay up to date with New Zealand’s immigration changes, helping you turn new rules into a clear and achievable study plan.

Talk to an IDP expert today for free for more details and make your study-abroad journey smooth and stress-free.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended as visa or immigration advice. Please verify any policies or updates on the relevant official government website or consult your visa or migration advisor or lawyer.