Big Win for Students: Your 25-Hour Work Week is Here—New Zealand's Earning Power Boost
Effective November 3, 2025, the maximum in-study work limit for most international students in New Zealand is increasing from 20 hours to 25 hours per week during academic terms. This is a crucial policy change under the government's 'Going for Growth Plan' and directly impacts your ability to manage living costs and gain local experience.
The Earning Power Boost
- Extra 5 Hours, Real Money: That extra five hours per week adds significant income. Based on the current minimum wage (NZ$23. 50 per hour in 2025, subject to annual increase), you gain an additional $117.50 per week minimum.
- Monthly Budget Relief: Over a typical four-week study month, this translates to an extra $470 (minimum) in your pocket, making a substantial difference to rent, groceries, and travel.
- Aligned with Competitors: The shift to 25 hours brings New Zealand in line with major study destinations like Australia and Canada, improving NZ's attractiveness to global students.
Who is Eligible and When
- New Visa Holders: If your Student Visa is granted on or after November 3, 2025, your work rights will automatically be set to the 25-hour limit.
- Current Visa Holders: If your visa was issued before November 3, 2025 (and states a 20-hour limit), you must apply and pay a fee for a Variation of Conditions (VOC) or apply for a new Student Visa to access the extra five hours. Do this before you start working the extra hours.
- Full-Time Breaks Remain: You still retain your existing right to work full-time (40 hours+) during scheduled academic breaks (like summer holidays and semester breaks). This is unchanged and key for saving.
- Exchange Students Included: For the first time, students enrolled in approved one-semester Exchange or Study Abroad programmes will also gain these work rights, making short-term stays more financially viable.
Key Rules to Remember
- Academics First: The 25-hour limit applies only during the academic semester. You must ensure work does not negatively impact your course attendance or grades. Poor academic performance could jeopardize future visa applications.
- Check the Visa Details: Always check the conditions printed on your physical visa label or in your online visa letter. If it says 20 hours and you have not applied for a VOC, you are non-compliant if you work 25.
