26/10/2026
Important Updates on New Zealand Student Visas! 🇳🇿🎓
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced four major changes to student visa rules, effective 27 October 2026. Here’s what students need to know:
1. Work Rights for Master’s Students
The unlimited work rights previously available to Master’s-by-research students have been removed. Under the announced changes, all Master’s students can work up to 25 hours per week during their studies and full-time during scheduled holidays.
2. English Language Requirements
English language proficiency is now explicitly recognised as a key factor in assessing whether a student can successfully meet the conditions of their student visa.
3. Suspension of Student Visa Processing
INZ can now suspend student visa processing in a wider range of circumstances. This includes cases where an education provider is under investigation for failing to comply with relevant rules and regulations.
4. Extension of Visa Expiry Dates
To give students more time to plan their next steps, student visas linked to course duration will now expire two months after the course end date, extending the previous one-month period.
However, the existing 31 March expiry date rule remains unchanged.
📌 Key Takeaway: These changes reinforce that the primary purpose of a student visa is to study and that students must comply with their visa conditions.
🇳🇿 Planning to study in New Zealand or currently studying there? Share this update with friends who may find it helpful! 🎓✈️
📞 For more information, contact
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is making 3 changes to protect the integrity of student visas, and a fourth change to help students after they finish their course. They will take effect from 27 October 2026.