New Zealand Launches 10-Year Growth Plan for International Education – Relaxed Work Rules to Benefit International Students
New Zealand has unveiled a long-term strategy called the International Education Going for Growth Plan, aiming to attract 35,000 more international students by 2034, raising total enrolments from 83,700 (2024) to 119,000.
💼 Relaxed Work Rules and Impact on International Students
From November 3, 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will introduce major policy changes aimed at supporting international students:
- Work hours increased from 20 to 25 hours/week for eligible student visa holders.
- In-study work rights extended to all tertiary-level international students, including those in short-term programs (1 semester).
- These changes apply only to visas granted on or after November 3. Current visa holders must reapply or request a variation (with fees) to benefit.
🔄 Impact:
- More financial support for students during their studies.
- Increased employment experience and integration opportunities.
- Encourages more short-term students to consider New Zealand as a destination.
🧑🎓 New Work Pathways for Graduates
A new 6-month temporary work visa will be introduced for:
- Graduates who are not eligible for traditional post-study work rights.
- This gives time to secure a job under the Accredited Employer Work Visa program.
🏦 Economic Impact of International Students
- Average student spending in 2024: NZ$45,000/year
- Total economic contribution in 2024: NZ$3.6 billion
- 2034 goal: Double the value to NZ$7.2 billion
📈 Result:
Boosts local businesses (retail, hospitality, tourism) and creates jobs.
📣 Awareness and Recruitment Goal
- Increase awareness of NZ as a study destination from 38% → 44% by 2034
- Increase those ranking NZ in their Top 3 choices from 18% → 22%
⚖️ Balancing Growth with Quality and Community Impact
Education Minister Erica Stanford stated:
“We want to grow numbers without compromising education quality, while also managing the impact on local communities.”
🌍 Recent Immigration Policy Support
These individuals can now skip qualification assessments for:
- Skilled Migrant Category
- Green List Roles
Comparison with Australia’s Strict Visa Approach
Unlike New Zealand, Australia has:
- Raised student visa fees to AUD $2,000 (as of July 1, 2025)
- Shown less flexibility in linking visas to education providers
📢 Experts say Australia can learn from NZ’s structured and student-focused approach.
✅ Key Takeaway
New Zealand is positioning itself as one of the most student-friendly destinations in 2025 and beyond. With relaxed work rules, new visa pathways, and a clear growth plan, it offers international students — including those from Pakistan — a promising future for study, work, and post-study opportunities.
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