Major Update for International Students in New Zealand!
The New Zealand government has unveiled its International Education Going for Growth Plan, a bold strategy to double the value of the international education sector to $7.2 billion by 2034.
As part of this plan, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is changing some immigration rules to help the country grow in a sustainable way, attract more international students, keep education standards high, and manage immigration risks.
In November 2025, INZ will be:
- increasing the number of hours eligible students can work while holding a student visa, from 20 to 25 hours a week
- extending eligibility for in-study work rights to all tertiary students on approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, including 1-semester courses
- clarifying that if you change your education provider or lower your level of study, you will need to apply for a new student visa, not just a variation of conditions.
Learn more about the International Education Going for Growth Plan on the Ministry of Education website:
https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/upcoming-changes-to-student-visa-work-rights
New Zealand immigration unveiled ambitious enrolment targets aiming to grow from 83,700 students in 2024 to 119,000 students by 2034.
In 2024 alone, international education contributed an impressive $3.6 billion to the New Zealand economy, with each student spending on average $45,000 per year.
Awareness of New Zealand as a leading study destination is also projected to rise — from 38% in 2024 to 44% by 2034.
These initiatives send a clear message: New Zealand is open, ambitious, and dedicated to offering international students world-class education and real career pathways.
#StudyInNewZealand #InternationalStudents #NewZealandEducation #NZWelcomesYou #StudyAbroad #Educli