Can You Work on a Student Visa in New Zealand?

Studying in New Zealand opens doors to world-class education, cultural diversity, and valuable global work opportunities. As a leading destination for international students, New Zealand provides clear and supportive pathways for those who wish to work while studying. 

In this comprehensive guide, we explain when, how, and under what conditions you can work on a student visa in New Zealand, ensuring you remain fully compliant with immigration rules while maximising career and financial benefits.

Understanding Student Visa Work Rights in New Zealand

As education and immigration specialists, we recognize that international students often need clarity regarding permitted work hours, employment conditions, and eligibility criteria under the New Zealand Immigration Instructions. Student visa work rights are designed to help students gain practical experience, support themselves financially, and enhance their professional profile during and after their studies.

Under a valid New Zealand student visa, you may be allowed to work part-time, full-time during breaks, or even full-time in specific academic programmes when certain requirements are met.

Who Is Eligible to Work on a Student Visa in New Zealand?

Eligibility to work is not automatic for all student visa holders. Work rights depend entirely on the level of study, course duration, and type of education provider. You may qualify for work rights if you are enrolled in:

• A course of at least two academic years; or

• A programme that is part of an approved pathway to skilled employment; or

• A course that leads to a qualification listed on the long-term skill shortage list; or

• A degree-level or higher programme at a recognized tertiary institution.

If your visa includes the condition “May work up to 20 hours per week”, you are permitted to work within the limits outlined by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Part-Time Work While Studying: What You Are Allowed to Do

Work Up to 20 Hours per Week During Term Time

Most eligible student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. These hours apply to all industries, including:

• Hospitality

• Retail

• Tourism

• Customer service

• Administration

• Technical support roles

• Internships tied to your study programme

You must ensure your weekly hours never exceed 20 during study periods, as breaching this condition can affect your future visa applications.

Full-Time Work During Scheduled Breaks

You may work full-time during:

• Summer holidays

• Mid-year breaks

• Scheduled institutional holidays specified in your enrolment

Your academic provider must confirm that the break is part of your official study calendar.

Full-Time Work Rights for Master’s and PhD Students

If you are pursuing a Master’s by Research or PhD, you benefit from the most flexible work rights. You can work:

• Unlimited hours, including full-time professional roles

• In any industry, occupation, or sector

• Without restrictions on weekly work limits

These rights acknowledge the often flexible, research-based nature of postgraduate study.

Work Integrated Learning (Internships and Practicum Requirements)

Some programmes include compulsory training such as:

• Industry placements

• Clinical rotations

• Teaching practicums

• Engineering or IT internships

These may fall outside the standard 20-hour rule if they are explicitly required to complete your qualification. The internship must be:

1. Mandated by the course curriculum, and

2. Specified in your student visa conditions.

Always ensure that your visa reflects your practical training obligations, or request an amendment if necessary.

Restrictions: What You Cannot Do While Working on a Student Visa

New Zealand’s student visa conditions come with clear limitations designed to protect both students and the labour market. You cannot:

• Work more than 20 hours per week during study periods unless exempt

• Work in roles involving commercial sexual services

• Be self-employed or start your own business

• Work as an independent contractor

• Work full-time during term unless you hold a PhD or research-based master’s visa

• Continue working if your visa has expired or work rights are removed

Non-compliance can result in termination of your visa and difficulty obtaining future visas.

Benefits of Working While Studying in New Zealand

Working part-time not only helps students earn income—it also offers lifelong benefits such as:

1. Gaining Practical Industry Experience

New Zealand employers value hands-on experience. Part-time roles help build:

• Workplace confidence

• Communication skills

• Local references

2. Supporting Living Costs

Income from part-time work helps cover:

• Rent

• Groceries

• Transportation

• Study supplies

3. Building a Pathway Toward Post-Study Employment

Many students secure long-term roles through:

• Internships

• Work placements

• Industry networking

This experience supports future applications for visas such as:

• Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV)

• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

• Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

Types of Jobs Popular Among International Students

Because of New Zealand’s flexible labour market, students commonly find opportunities in:

• Hospitality – cafés, restaurants, hotels

• Retail – supermarkets, stores, shopping centres

• Call centres and customer service

• Delivery and logistics support

• Administration roles

• Tutoring or academic support

• IT support or part-time tech roles

• Seasonal jobs in tourism or agriculture

Earning potential varies by city. For reference, New Zealand’s minimum wage is regularly updated. Students must be paid at least the legal minimum unless the role qualifies for a different wage category.

How to Check Your Visa Work Rights

To avoid accidental breaches, we strongly recommend checking your visa conditions through:

• The eVisa PDF document issued by INZ

• The conditions printed in your visa letter

• The VisaView employer checking system (for employers verifying your eligibility)

Your visa should clearly state:

• “May work up to 20 hours per week”

• “May work full-time during scheduled breaks”

• “Unlimited work rights” (for PhD and certain master’s students)

If your work rights are missing or incorrect, you can request a variation of conditions.

Working as a Dependent Partner While the Student Studies

In some cases, partners of student visa holders may qualify for:

• A Partner of a Student Work Visa, allowing full-time employment

• A Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, allowing stay without work

These depend on the student being enrolled in eligible qualifications, such as:

• Level 7 or 8 qualifications on the Green List

• Level 9 or 10 Master’s and PhD programmes

This is an additional advantage for families planning long-term settlement.

Rules for Secondary School Students

Most international secondary school students do not automatically have work rights. However, senior secondary students (Year 12 or 13) may request limited work rights of:

• Up to 20 hours per week during term

• Full-time during holidays

This must be explicitly approved by INZ.

Your Pathway After Graduation: Post-Study Work Opportunities

Completing an eligible qualification allows you to apply for the Post-Study Work Visa, which enables:

• Full-time work

• Any occupation

• Any employer under current settings

This visa is often the bridge toward:

• Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

• Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

• Long-term residency pathways

Working during study strengthens your employability and increases your chances of securing skilled employment later.

Final Thoughts: Working on a Student Visa in New Zealand

Working on a student visa in New Zealand is a valuable opportunity that offers financial support, real-world experience, and strong pathways to future employment. By following visa conditions carefully, students can enhance their study journey while preparing for long-term success in the New Zealand workforce.

Whether you plan to work part-time, complete internships, or transition to post-study employment, understanding your rights and obligations ensures you remain compliant and empowered throughout your academic journey.

Need personalised guidance on your student visa or work rights? Speak with our experienced Immigration Adviser Auckland team today. We provide clear, trusted advice to support your journey in New Zealand.