New Zealand Increases Student Work Hour Limit Starting November 2025

Interested in working part-time while studying in New Zealand? You’ll want to read this update, because from 3 November 2025, New Zealand increases student work hour limit from 20 to 25 hours per week.

Why the Change? New Zealand Increases Student Work Hour Limit

As part of its International Education: Going for Growth Plan, the New Zealand government is expanding international student numbers and economic contribution—from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to over NZ$7.2 billion by 2034.

Under this strategy, New Zealand increases student work hour limit to support student finances, attract global talent, and compete with tighter policies in the US and Australia.

Key points:

• The Student Work Hour Limit rises from 20 to 25 hours/week during semesters.

• Applies to student visas issued on or after 3 November 2025, regardless of application date.

• Existing visa holders can apply for a variation of conditions or a new student visa to qualify.

Who Benefits from the New Work Hours?

1. Tertiary and Secondary Students: Both groups can now work more hours during class weeks, provided they meet requirements like parental approval for years 12–13

2. Exchange & Study Abroad Students: Even those enrolled in one-semester international programmes are now eligible.

3. Current Visa Holders: They must apply for a visa update if they wish to increase their weekly work hours.

With nearly 41,000 current holders of in-study work rights, many students stand to benefit from this financial opportunity.

What This Means Financially

Increasing from 20 to 25 hours of work can mean an extra NZ$100–150 weekly—depending on your hourly wage and schedule. This can significantly offset living costs in cities like Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch.

Students can also gain real-world experience, skills appreciated by employers and helpful on your CV.

Important Rules to Know

Student visa changes:

• Applying for a new visa or variation of conditions is mandatory if switching institutions or downgrading study level currently, such changes were done via variation. This update tightens visa compliance improvements

Break periods:

• Full-time work during scheduled academic breaks remains unaffected (e.g., holidays or summer vacations).

Secondary students:

• Years 12–13 students still need parental and school approval even with increased hours.

How TG Overseas Education Helps You Benefit

At TG Overseas Education, we keep you informed about critical study-abroad updates, like how New Zealand increases student work hour limit to benefit international students. Our free counselling helps you:

• Understand the new work rights and how they affect your budget

• Decide if New Zealand might offer better part-time work options than other countries

• Apply for any visa updates required for longer work hours

Because the changes are effective from November 3, 2025, it’s crucial to plan quickly, especially if you plan to study or travel during early intakes.

Tips to Make the Most of the New 25-Hour Work Week

• Budget Wisely: Estimate extra income from 5 additional weekly hours and adjust living expenses accordingly.

• Balance Work & Study: Don’t jeopardize academic performance, manage hours carefully.

• Check Eligibility Early: If you’re on an exchange or one-semester programme, confirm your eligibility.

• Prepare Visa Documents: Have a valid passport, institutional confirmation, and proof of funds ahead of any application.

FAQs – New Work Hours in NZ

Q: Does the 25-hour rule apply automatically if I already have a student visa?
A: No. If your visa was issued before 3 November 2025, you must apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa to access the extra hours.

Q: Can I work more hours during academic breaks?
A: Yes. Full-time work during scheduled breaks was already allowed and remains unchanged.

Q: What about students on short visits, like exchange programmes?
A: Eligible secondary and tertiary students, even on one-semester programmes, will qualify for the 25-hour limit starting Nov 2025.

Final Thoughts: Why This Matters to You

This new rule is a strategic win for international students, making studying in New Zealand more affordable and attractive.

When you see that New Zealand increases student work hour limit, remember: this is not just a policy update, it’s an opportunity. With an extra 5 hours of permitted work per week, you gain financial flexibility, resume-building experience, and post-study readiness.

If you’re interested in how this fits into your study plan, reach out to TG Overseas Education for free counselling and expert guidance.