Employment prospects in New Zealand

Study in New Zealand: A Top-Ranking Education Destination

New Zealand is a highly sought-after education destination for students worldwide. With globally recognized universities and colleges, it offers a progressive and responsive education system. Unlike many Western countries, the New Zealand government actively encourages international students to find jobs and settle in the country.

Working while you study

Working part-time in New Zealand not only helps cover your living expenses but also provides valuable work experience in your field of study.

Work Eligibility

Most student visas allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during your course. To be eligible for part-time work, you must meet specific criteria, such as:

• Enrolled in a course lasting at least two years.

• Studying a program that leads to a qualification eligible for points under the Skilled Migrant Category.

• Taking an English language course approved by Immigration New Zealand.

In certain cases, students may work more than 20 hours per week if it is part of their qualification.

Work During Course Breaks

• Full-Time Work Eligibility : You can work full-time during scheduled breaks if your program runs for one academic year (120 credits or more).

• Shorter Programs : If your program is less than 120 credits, you may work full-time only during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

Compliance and Tax Requirements

• Ensure your visa permits paid work before starting.

• Wages are taxed, and you must obtain an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) tax number. For more details, visit

  IRD New Zealand

Popular Part-Time Job Opportunities

While studying in New Zealand, you can easily find work in some of the popular part-time job domains, as under:

• Data-entry work

• Translation assignments

• Attendant in supermarkets

• Attendant in Small Restaurants

• On-Campus opportunities to work in the campus library, laboratory, etc.

Your rights at work

In New Zealand, all employees, including international students, have basic rights at work. Employers are legally required to:

• Provide you with a written employment agreement

• Pay you at least the minimum wage

• Provide you with paid annual holidays

• Provide you with paid rest breaks and unpaid meal breaks

• Give you public holidays off or if you’re working on these days, compensate you for working

• Not deduct money from your wage unless the agreement is in writing

• Provide a safe workplace

• Not discriminate against you

• Act in good faith

For more detailed information, refer to New Zealand’s labor laws and guidelines.

Working After Graduation

New Zealand offers two types of post-study work visas for international students:

The Open Visa :

• Valid for 12 months after completing your program.

• Allows you to find a job in your field of study.

The Employer-Assisted Visa:

• Valid for up to two years.

• Requires you to work in a specific, relevant job.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

If you meet the criteria, you can apply for a Skilled Migrant Visa to live and work in New Zealand permanently. For detailed information, visit New Zealand Now.