New Zealand, unlike other countries, is increasing the number of international students by relaxing the work hours required for study visa holders. This, in turn, means that international students pursuing studies are gaining more work eligibility and enrolling in short-term work culture programs and vocational courses. According to the New Zealand government, this strategy is expected to increase international student enrolments. Thus, the abroad education consultants are getting more and more students who want to pursue their studies in NZ.
According to sources, the newly launched International Education Going for Growth Plan has been implemented, which will increase the enrolments from 83700 in 2024 to 119000 by 2034. Further, the announcement made by Immigration New Zealand regarding the rules of the country shows that this strategy has been undertaken to attract more international students and to maintain high-quality education standards (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/upcoming-changes-to-student-visa-work-rights/).
What is the essence of the announcement?
The recent announcement made by Immigration New Zealand is advantageous for international students. As per the announcements, from November 2025, there will be:
- Increase in the number of working hours for eligible students, allowing those with a visa permit to work more than 25 hours per week.
- Extension of the eligibility for in-study working rights to students for approved exchange or study abroad programmes.
According to INZ data, there are currently 40,987 study visa holders with in-study work rights, with 29,790 set to expire on or before March 31, 2026. Moreover, the remaining 11,197 visas are expected to lapse after March 31, 2026. According to the new regulations, students with existing visas will be permitted to work 20 hours per week. The new allowance will be given to the students who are granted a visa from November 3 onwards.
How is this beneficial for the international students pursuing education in New Zealand?
In simple terms, this policy has made the life of international students easy. It allows them to earn more money. They can contribute to financial stability and can easily manage their educational expenses. According to the study abroad consultants, it is undoubtedly good news for the Indian students. Following the policy update, there has been a 34% surge in Indian student enrollments from January to August. Furthermore, the announcement has elevated the rankings of some of New Zealand’s major universities (https://www.businesstoday.in/nri/visa/story/good-news-for-indians-in-new-zealand-govt-eases-student-work-rules-expands-visa-flexibility-485039-2025-07-17).
When work hours increase, it provides students with the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their chosen field of education. It can also help them build a professional network, which will enable them to apply for relevant jobs after completing their education.
Final thoughts
The announcement was made weeks after New Zealand eased visa pathways for degree holders from countries such as India, Germany, France, Italy, and Sri Lanka. This policy is an initiative to increase the number of international students by prioritising the student support system. According to Sushrutha Metikurke, former associate VP of business development, Australia and New Zealand, this is a sustainable initiative for the overall growth of students, industries and the economy. International students are a valued part of society, and they make an immense contribution economically as well. Hence, by working closely with NZ employers and by ensuring jobs for international students, the skill shortages in different industries can be mitigated.