Studying in New Zealand? Four visa changes worth knowing about

Recent changes to student visa settings affect how much some students can work, how applications are assessed and how long certain visas remain valid after study finishes.

The changes took effect on 27 October 2026, and the implications will depend on the type of study, application date and existing visa conditions.

What's changed?

1. Work rights for new master's by research students

New master's by research students will no longer receive unlimited work rights. Instead, new master's students will be subject to the same work conditions, allowing up to 25 hours per week during study periods and full time during holidays.

The change applies to student visa applications made on or after 27 October 2026. Existing visa conditions are not retrospectively changed.

2. Greater emphasis on English language ability

Immigration New Zealand has strengthened its instructions around assessing whether students have sufficient English language ability to meet their visa conditions.

Students should ensure their application provides appropriate evidence of their ability to undertake their intended programme.

3. More circumstances where processing can be suspended

Immigration New Zealand can now formally suspend the processing of student visa applications in a wider range of circumstances, including where potential noncompliance by an education provider is being assessed.

This means a visa applicant's processing timeframe may be affected by matters involving their education provider.

4. Additional time after study finishes

For affected students whose visas would previously have expired one month after their course end date, the period has been extended to two months.

The existing 31 March student visa expiry date arrangement remains unchanged.

What should students check?

Before applying for a new student visa or making plans after study, confirm:

• The work conditions that will apply to your visa.
• Whether your application includes the required English language evidence.
• The current status of your education provider.
• Your visa expiry date and any conditions affecting your next steps.

These changes may offer some students additional flexibility after completing their studies, while others will need to account for different work conditions.

Want to know how these changes affect your study plans? Get in touch with one of our licensed immigration advisers to discuss your student visa options.