Big News: NZ Student Visa Work Rights Expanded Starting November 2025!
New Zealand is making headlines again! On 14 July 2025, New Zealand Immigration announced a major policy upgrade for international students. Starting 3 November 2025, those on a student visa will be allowed to work 25 hours per week during term time — up from the previous 20-hour limit. This change is part of the nation’s “International Education Going for Growth” initiative to attract global talent.
🔍 At a Glance: What Are the Key Changes?
| Policy Area | Current Rule | New Rule (Nov 2025) |
| In-study Work Hours | 20 hours/week | 25 hours/week |
| Exchange/Study Abroad Eligibility | Often Excluded | Fully Included |
| Switching Course/Provider | Variation of Conditions Required | New Student Visa Required |
✨ Why This Change Is a Win for Students
- More Earning Power: An extra 5 hours per week could mean 25% more income.
- Inclusion of Exchange Students: 1-semester and short-term programmes are now eligible for work rights.
- Clearer Visa Rules: Easier compliance when switching institutions or programs.
🌟 Why It’s Great News for Sri Lankan Students
Sri Lankan students often balance study and part-time jobs. This change offers:
- More financial flexibility
- Opportunity to engage in short-term study abroad programmes with work rights
- Improved ROI on international education
🌍 NZ vs. Australia & UK: Who Comes Out Ahead?
| Country | Weekly Work Limit | Short-Term/Exchange Student Work Rights | Policy Direction |
| New Zealand | 25 hours | Fully Included | Student-Centric & Growth-Driven |
| Australia | 20 hours | Restricted | Conservative |
| United Kingdom | 20 hours | Limited | Conservative |
💼 AIA Study Abroad Tips
- Apply to NZQA-accredited programmes eligible for 25-hour work weeks.
- Explore short-term exchanges for international exposure + income.
- Stay updated on visa requirements when changing courses or institutions
Frequently Asked Questions🔍❓
Q: Can I work 25 hours/week under my current visa?
A: Only if your visa is issued on or after 3 November 2025. Otherwise, you must apply for a variation.
Q: Are high school students eligible?
A: Yes, for Years 12-13, but only with written consent from both school and parents.
Q: What if I change my programme or provider?
A: You will need to apply for a new student visa.
✅ What You Should Do Now
☑️ Review your study plan for eligibility
☑️ Plan ahead for short-term study abroad or exchange programmes
☑️ Start gathering documents for November visa changes
📢 Contact AIA Study Abroad
Let our experts help you benefit from New Zealand’s most student-friendly visa update yet!
Forward-thinking students choose New Zealand. Smart students choose AIA.
