Work While Studying in New Zealand
New Zealand provides excellent opportunities for international students to gain work experience while studying. Under current immigration regulations, students on long-term student visas are allowed to work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during term time
- Up to 40 hours per week during scheduled holidays
Eligibility to Work While Studying
International students may be eligible to work part-time (20 hours per week) if they meet any of the following criteria:
✅ Enrolled in a full-time course lasting at least two academic years
✅ Pursuing a New Zealand qualification that earns points under the country’s residence policy
✅ Studying a full-time English language course with an IELTS score of at least 5.0 (General or Academic)
Important: Students must receive permission from New Zealand Immigration before starting employment. This permission is automatically printed on the student visa label if the student applies for a variation of conditions when submitting their visa application.
Work Opportunities for Partners of International Students
Partners of postgraduate students can apply for a work permit valid for the same duration as their partner’s student visa. If your partner intends to work in New Zealand, they must submit an application to New Zealand Immigration Services.
Work After Graduation
Graduate Job Search Work Permit
International students who complete a New Zealand qualification can apply for the Graduate Job Search Work Visa, which allows them to:
✅ Work for any employer in New Zealand for up to 1 year
✅ Gain relevant experience in their field of study
Post-Study Work Visa (2-3 Years)
If graduates secure a job relevant to their qualification during the 1-year Graduate Job Search Visa, they can apply to extend their work visa for up to 2 more years under the Post-Study Work Visa.
To qualify, students must have completed a New Zealand qualification that earns points under the Skilled Migrant Category.
Paying Income Tax in New Zealand
Before starting work, students must apply for an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number. The application process takes 8-10 days.
Tax Deductions
Employers automatically deduct taxes from wages based on income:
- 15% to 39% tax deduction depending on earnings
- 45% non-declaration rate applies if students fail to submit a Tax Code Declaration Form at the start of employment
Tax Refunds: If students work only for part of the year, they may be eligible for a tax refund. To check refund eligibility, they must request a personal tax summary from the IRD.
For more details, visit the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department (IRD) website.
