If you are thinking of studying in New Zealand, or you already have a Student Visa, this guide is for you. I’ll explain the important work-rights changes in simple English. I will give real examples and practical steps so you can understand what the rules mean for your daily life. You will also find helpful notes about the NZeTA Application Form and Information About The NZeTA for short visits by friends and family.

Why the change matters to you

Many international students need part-time work to pay for rent, food, and other costs. New rules that allow more working hours can make a big difference. If you have a Student Visa, extra hours can mean more money, more work experience, and more chances to meet local people. But it also brings choices and responsibilities. You must balance study and work so your grades do not suffer.

The main change: more hours to work

From 3 November 2025, eligible international students holding a Student Visa may be able to work up to 25 hours per week during term time. Before this change, many students were allowed only 20 hours a week. The new limit gives you an extra five hours for study-friendly jobs. If your course is a research degree, you may already have different or unlimited work rights — each visa can say different things, so read yours carefully.

Who is eligible for the extra work hours?

Not every student with a Student Visa automatically gets the higher hours. The extra hours usually apply if:

• Your course is full-time and approved by the right authorities.

• Your visa explicitly allows work and shows the number of hours.

• You follow the rules set by Immigration New Zealand and your education provider.

If you are unsure, check the conditions printed on your visa or in Immigration New Zealand’s online services. Your college or university’s international student office can also help.

What if your current visa still says 20 hours?

If you already have a Student Visa issued before the new rules and it says “20 hours,” the extra five hours do not start automatically. You will likely need to:

• Apply for a variation of conditions that increases your hours, or

• Apply for a new Student Visa showing the 25-hour work right.

Both steps may take time and could include fees. Plan ahead if you need to increase your work hours quickly.

Where you can work and what to watch

The rules change how many hours you can work, not the kinds of jobs you can do. Common student jobs include cafes, shops, campus roles, and hospitality. But every job must follow New Zealand laws: minimum wage, safe work conditions, and correct tax rules.

A few warnings:

• Some employers might try to push you into unpaid or unsafe work. Always ask for a written agreement and a payslip.

• Keep records of your pay and working hours. These documents help with future job or visa applications.

• If something feels wrong, get advice from your university help center or Immigration New Zealand.

Balancing study and work — simple tips

Work can help, but your study must come first. Here are easy ways to balance both:

• Make a weekly schedule. Block study times, class times, and part-time hours.

• Don’t rely on work to pay tuition. Use savings, family support, or scholarships for fees.

• Use campus careers offices. They list student-friendly jobs and give help with CVs and interviews.

• Watch your grades. If your marks drop, your visa could be at risk.

Post-study options and the bigger picture

The change to work hours is part of a larger plan. New Zealand wants to make study here more attractive and to provide clearer steps from study to work. That means better chances to find jobs after graduation and, for some, paths to longer-term residency. This is good news for students who want to build a life here after finishing studies.

Short visits by friends or family — NZeTA notes

If people plan short visits to New Zealand while you study, they may need to use the NZeTA Application Form before travel. The NZeTA is required for many visitors and cruise passengers. It is simple to apply but usually needs at least 72 hours processing time, so plan early. For more details about who needs it, the cost, and how long it takes, check Information About The NZeTA on the official government pages. These links are useful if your family will come for graduation or a holiday while you are studying.

Quick checklist before you work more hours

• Read your Student Visa conditions online.

• If your visa shows 20 hours and you want 25, apply for a variation or a new Student Visa.

• Make sure the job gives at least the minimum wage and a payslip.

• Keep study performance steady — do not let work harm your grades.

Final thoughts — is this a good change?

In short: yes, for many students this is good news. More allowed work hours mean extra income and more real work experience. But be careful — protect your study goals, check all visa conditions, and avoid unfair jobs. When in doubt, ask your education provider or Immigration New Zealand for help.