Immigration New Zealand made four changes to student visas from 27 October 2026. Three are aimed at protecting the integrity of the student visa system, and one gives students more time after their course ends. If you are planning to study in New Zealand, or you are already here on a student visa, here is what you need to know.
Key points
- New master’s by research students no longer get unlimited work rights during study.
- All new master’s students can work up to 25 hours a week in term and full time in scheduled holidays.
- Visas that would have ended 1 month after the course now end 2 months after it.
- English language ability is now a key factor in deciding whether a student can meet their visa conditions.
- Processing can be suspended while concerns about an education provider are investigated.
Work rights for master’s students
Before the change, master’s by research students had unlimited work rights during study. New master’s students now all have the same conditions: up to 25 hours a week during study and full time during scheduled holidays. This applies only to new student visas applied for on or after 27 October 2026. If you already hold a visa, your conditions do not change.
More time after your course
Two months to plan your next step. Student visas end either on 31 March or a set time after the course end date, depending on the course. Where that period was 1 month, it is now 2 months. The 31 March date has not changed. Use the extra time to apply for your next visa, such as a post-study work visa.
English language
Immigration officers may now ask for evidence of your English language ability if they are concerned you cannot meet the conditions of your visa, for example being able to study successfully. Even where your provider has accepted you, be ready to show your English level.
Provider investigations
Immigration New Zealand can now suspend processing of student visa applications in more situations, including while it is still deciding whether an education provider has failed to comply with its obligations. Choose your provider carefully and keep in touch about any delays.
What you should do now
- Check your work conditions: on your visa before you start a job.
- Note your visa end date: and plan your next application early.
- Prepare English evidence: even if your provider did not ask for it.
- Research your provider: before you pay fees.
Frequently asked questions
Can master’s by research students still work unlimited hours?
Not on new visas applied for from 27 October 2026. They can work up to 25 hours a week during study and full time in holidays.
Does this change my existing student visa?
No. The work rights change only applies to new student visa applications made on or after 27 October 2026.
How long does my student visa last after my course?
Depending on your course, it ends on 31 March or a set period after the course end date. Where that was 1 month, it is now 2 months.
Can Immigration New Zealand ask for English test results?
Yes. Officers can ask for evidence of English ability if they are concerned you cannot meet your visa conditions.
Why might my student visa processing be suspended?
Processing can be suspended while concerns about your education provider are investigated.
Related guides
- Student visa New Zealand
- Fee paying student visa
- Post-study work visa
- Pathway student visa
- Working holiday visa
Planning to study in New Zealand? Book a consultation with our New Zealand immigration team.
This article is general information only and is not legal or immigration advice for your situation.
New Zealand Immigration News: November Update
Charging Migrants for Jobs Is Illegal, Even When Paid Overseas: What Employers Need to Know
Immigration Online Changes: Passport Scans, Family Visa Applications and Sponsored Visitors
Visa Waiver Travel Suspended for Kuwait Passport Holders, and NZeTA Travel From Australia Continues
New Zealand Student Visa Changes: Work Rights, Visa Length and English
Resident Visa Applications Will Be Declined if a Dependent Child Is Unlawfully in New Zealand