Employing international students

Most international students are entitled to work up to 20 hours each week during the academic year as part of their student visa. They can also apply for a further variation of conditions to allow full-time work during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

A student visa may be granted with conditions to allow the holder unlimited work rights if the student is undertaking a Master by Research or Doctoral degree, and the qualification is awarded by a New Zealand tertiary institution.

Employing international graduates

After a student has completed their studies they may be able to work in New Zealand if they can get a work visa. The most common type is a Post-study work visa. Depending on the level of their qualifications, they can work for 1, 2 or 3 years for any employer.

For updates to the work rights for international students during and post-study, see Immigration New Zealand.