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New work rights for student visa holders

From 15 January 2014, student visa holders have been given increased rights to work in New Zealand.

All students who are studying for at least one academic year are now able to work full-time during all scheduled breaks, rather than just over the summer holiday period.

English language students are now able to work for 20 hours per week during the term time, provided they are studying for at least 14 consecutive weeks at a provider that has been rated Category 1 by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).

Also, students no longer have to request a variation of their student visa in order to work in New Zealand. Student visas will now be automatically granted with whatever work conditions the student is eligible for.