Changes to New Zealand Student Visas: What International Students Need to Know

Swarna Kamakshi

21 October 2025

As someone who has made New Zealand my home, I have experienced firsthand the unique opportunities it offers international students.

Beyond its high-quality education, welcoming culture, and stunning landscapes, studying in New Zealand offers the chance to start a new chapter in life, gaining valuable work experience, creating connections in the community, and embracing both the challenges and rewards of living in a new country. For many international students, studying in New Zealand is about far more than earning a qualification – it is an opportunity to build the skills and opportunities that could shape a future in Aotearoa.

To make New Zealand even more attractive and accessible to international students, the New Zealand Government has announced significant student visa changes from 3 November 2025 changes to the student visa rules, alongside a bold new vision for the next decade of international education in the country.

Here’s what international students need to know.

What’s Changing for Student Visas from 3 November 2025?

More flexibility to work while studying

A key change is that international students will be allowed to work up to 25 hours per week during term time – up from the current 20 hours. This change will apply to all tertiary-level students, as well as some Year 12 and 13 high school students.

The change provides students with greater opportunities to earn income, gain work experience, and support themselves while studying.

Work rights extended to exchange and Study Abroad students

Until now, students on one-semester exchange or Study Abroad programmes were not permitted to work in New Zealand.

From November 2025, all tertiary exchange and Study Abroad students will have work rights for the duration of their studies, regardless of how long they stay.

This change strengthens New Zealand’s competitiveness with other study destinations and makes shorter programmes more attractive to international students.

Stricter rules for changing courses or providers

Students who wish to switch education providers or move to a lower level of study will need to apply for a new student visa.

This change helps Immigration New Zealand maintain a clear understanding of students’ study intentions and movements. It’s important for students to plan ahead and seek advice before making any changes to their course or institution.

Visa applications now lodged through ADEPT

From 18 August 2025, all student visa applications must be submitted via ADEPT (Advanced Digital Experience Platform for Transactions).

This new system offers a faster, more transparent process with online tracking and real-time updates.

Student fund requirements – Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS)

Applicants from India, Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines may be asked to use the ANZ Bank Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS) to demonstrate genuine and accessible living funds.

New Zealand’s Long-Term Vision for International Students

Announced by Hon Erica Stanford, Minister for Education and Immigration (14 July 2025), the new international education strategy sets out ambitious goals for 2034.

Doubling the economic impact

International education currently contributes $3.6 billion to New Zealand’s economy. The goal is to double that to $7.2 billion by 2034, encompassing tuition fees, student spending, tourism, and global partnerships generated through education.

Welcoming more students

The Government aims to increase international student enrolments from 83,700 in 2024 to:

• 105,000 by 2027, and
• 119,000 by 2034.

This growth will be supported by a stronger global presence and deeper relationships with key partner countries.

A new graduate work visa

A proposed six-month graduate work visa for vocational and sub-degree graduates will help students gain local work experience and transition to longer-term visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa.

Exploring multi-Year student visas

Multi-year student visas are being considered to replace annual renewals, reducing paperwork and providing more certainty for students.

Commitment to stability and clearer rules

The Government has signalled a move towards more predictable, long-term policy settings. That means fewer surprises for students and education providers, as well as a smoother experience from enrolment to graduation.

What This Means for International Students

For current and prospective international students, these changes offer greater flexibility and support, including:

• More hours to work while studying

• Improved post-graduation opportunities

• A modern, streamlined visa process

• Clearer pathways to achieving your goals

However, understanding the new rules is crucial, especially when changing courses or providers. Getting professional immigration advice early can help avoid delays and ensure your visa eligibility.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand is sending a strong message that international students are at the heart of our future – economically, socially, and globally.

With greater flexibility, clearer pathways, and a renewed long-term vision, there’s never been a better time to study in Aotearoa.

Talk to us

Our team of specialist immigration lawyers has extensive experience helping students secure visas for New Zealand. We can also provide expert guidance on post-study work visas, residency requirements, and all the legal details, so you can focus on your studies with confidence. Book your free 15-minute consultation today and get advice you can trust.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice. It is important that you seek legal advice that is specific to your circumstances.