Student Visa Reforms Announced as Part of New Zealand’s ‘Go for Growth’ Plan

Government Expands Work Rights for Overseas Students Under Growth Strategy

In a decisive effort to revitalise its international education sector, the New Zealand Government has unveiled the “International Education Going for Growth Plan,” which aims to double the sector’s economic contribution from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034. Education Minister Erica Stanford reportedly stated that the country intends to “supercharge” its growth trajectory, positioning New Zealand as a leading global study destination amid tightening student visa policies in competing markets such as Australia and the United States.

As part of the reform package, eligible student visa holders will be permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during academic terms from 3 November 2025, up from the current 20-hour limit. Additionally, students enrolled in approved exchange or Study Abroad programmes, including one-semester courses, will now be granted in-study work rights, a significant expansion of previous eligibility criteria.

To further support graduate transition into the workforce, the Government is considering the introduction of a short-term work visa of up to six months for international students who do not qualify for post-study work rights. This visa would serve as a bridge to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) pathway, allowing graduates time to secure employment in their field of study.

Moreover, the plan sets ambitious targets to increase international student enrolments from 83,700 in 2024 to 105,000 by 2027 and 119,000 by 20344. It also aims to raise the proportion of prospective students who rank New Zealand among their top three study destinations from 18% to 22% over the same period. Promotional efforts will be concentrated on high-potential markets, with China and India currently accounting for 34% and 14% of enrolments, respectively, followed by Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Education New Zealand Chief Executive Amanda Malu has emphasised the broader value of international education, noting that each student contributes approximately NZ$45,000 annually to the economy, supporting local businesses and fostering cultural diversity. While education providers and immigration experts have welcomed the reforms, some commentators have cautioned that infrastructure readiness, particularly in housing and student support services, will be essential to sustaining quality alongside growth.

The Government has acknowledged these concerns and is reportedly exploring further measures, including streamlined visa processes and multi-year visa options, to enhance the student experience and reduce administrative barriers. New Zealand’s growth strategy reflects a bold yet measured commitment to expanding its international education sector while maintaining quality, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.

Editor’s Note:

New Zealand’s new international education plan is a clear signal of its ambition to become a top global study destination. By aiming to double the sector’s economic contribution over the next decade, the government is not only looking to boost revenue but also deepen the country’s global ties and cultural exchange. Key reforms, such as increasing in-study work hours, expanding work rights to short-term learners, and proposing a graduate work visa, are practical steps to make studying in New Zealand more attractive and accessible for international students. At the same time, the government has acknowledged that infrastructure and student support services must grow alongside enrolment numbers. This is a crucial point, as welcoming more students should not come at the cost of their experience or well-being. The plan’s focus on streamlining visa processes and exploring multi-year options shows an understanding that reducing red tape is essential for long-term success.

Skoobuzz believes this is a smart and future-focused plan that carefully balances economic ambition with the needs of international students. With proper implementation and sustained investment in student services, it has the potential to firmly establish New Zealand as a global leader in international education in the years ahead.