If New Zealand has been on your list of study or migration destinations, this is the time to pay close attention. The country has updated its visa and immigration policies, designed to make its system more flexible, transparent, and aligned with global mobility trends.
These new policies reflect New Zealand’s efforts to attract skilled talent, international students, and investors who can contribute to its growing economy. It’s also part of the country’s post-pandemic recovery strategy, encouraging both short- and long-term visitors while maintaining fair rules for local employers and international applicants.
If you’re considering studying, building a career, or investing in New Zealand, understanding these policy shifts will help you plan better, meet the right requirements, and make confident, well-informed choices. Let’s take a closer look at the key updates and what they mean for you.
1) Student and Visitor Visa Reforms
Starting 3 November 2025, eligible tertiary and secondary school students can now work up to 25 hours per week during term time, an increase from the previous 20-hour limit. This extra flexibility helps students gain more hands-on experience, ease financial pressure, and integrate more easily into the local workforce.
In addition, the Immigration Online platform received a major upgrade in August 2025, making visa applications faster and smoother. The new system allows students to track their applications in real time, get clearer updates, and upload or manage documents more easily. It’s a much-needed step toward a more transparent and user-friendly experience for international applicants.
And for visitors, there’s exciting news too. As of January 2025, certain visitors can now work remotely for non–New Zealand employers while enjoying their stay. The change reflects the country’s growing recognition of flexible work trends and its commitment to attracting a wider range of global visitors.
2) Skilled Worker & Employer-Sponsored Visa Changes
For those looking to live and work in New Zealand, 2025 has brought several improvements to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). From July 2025, the AEWV application form was redesigned to simplify documentation and reduce unnecessary steps, especially for applicants whose roles fall under the Green List of in-demand occupations.
Also, in August 2025, the government introduced new wage thresholds tied to the national median wage of NZD $33.56 per hour. This ensures fair pay for migrant workers while maintaining consistency across employment sectors.
Earlier reforms in 2025 made it easier for skilled professionals to settle in the country. These adjustments included longer visa durations and reduced work experience requirements for certain roles under the AEWV. Together, these updates are designed to attract global talent, fill critical skill gaps, and support the country’s growing economy.
3) Investment & Business Immigration Updates
Investors and entrepreneurs now have fresh opportunities in New Zealand, as the country updates its business migration framework. The Active Investor Plus Visa, updated in April 2025, introduced two new investment tiers, Growth and Balanced, to accommodate different levels of capital and timelines. This flexibility allows investors to choose a path that best suits their long-term goals.
Also, from November 2025, the Business Investor Visa will take the place of the previous Entrepreneur Work Visa. This new pathway sets out two clear investment options: NZD $1 million for a 3-year work-to-residence route or NZD $2 million for a 12-month fast-track to residency.
4) Visitor Visa for Parents & Extended Family
Family connections are a big part of New Zealand’s community-driven values. In September 2025, the government launched the Parent Boost Visitor Visa, designed to strengthen family ties.
This visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years, with the option to renew for another five. It’s important to note, however, that this visa does not lead to permanent residency.
What These Changes Mean for You
• Students gain more work flexibility and smoother application processes.
• Skilled workers benefit from streamlined forms, realistic wage thresholds, and clearer career pathways
• Investors and entrepreneurs enjoy simplified routes to residence.
• Families have more options to stay connected through extended visitor visas.
