🇳🇿 New Zealand: 2025’s Ultimate Guide to Online Visas & 25-Hour Work Weeks
If you’re planning to study in New Zealand this year, two major updates will have a direct impact on your plans. First, all student visa applications go fully digital on 18 September 2025. Second, from November 2025, you can work up to 25 hours per week during term time. This guide walks you through both changes, explains what you need to do, and shares tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
Why These Updates Matter
New Zealand is modernizing its immigration system to reduce processing times and give international students more flexibility. Moving away from paper forms means faster decisions, fewer errors, and 24/7 access to your application status. And by raising the in-term work limit from 20 to 25 hours, the government is helping students cover living costs without compromising study schedules.
Fully Digital Visa Applications Starting 18 September 2025
As of 18 September 2025, paper submissions for all student visa categories will be retired. That includes:
- English Language Student Visa
- Exchange Student Visa
- Fee Paying Student Visa
- Pathway Student Visa
- New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa
- Foreign Government Supported Student Visa
All new applications must go through the Immigration Online platform, also known as ADEPT. Launched on 18 August 2025, ADEPT replaces the old system and centralizes every step of your visa journey.
What If You’ve Already Applied?
If you submitted a student visa application on or before 17 August 2025 via the old portal, Immigration New Zealand will continue processing it. You can still:
- Upload additional documents
- Respond to requests for more information
- Monitor application status
These in-flight applications won’t be affected by the new system.
Completing Unfinished Drafts by 17 September 2025
Have a draft application lingering in the old system? You’ll need to:
- Log back into your account before 17 September 2025.
- Complete all sections and submit.
Any draft left unsubmitted after that date will be deleted. You’ll have to start over in ADEPT.
How the New Work-Hour Rules Benefit You
From November 2025, eligible student visa holders can work up to 25 hours per week during study periods—up from 20 hours. This change applies to:
- Tertiary students on full-degree programs
- Exchange students in approved semesters abroad
- Short-term study abroad placements
More work hours means greater earning potential to help with rent, groceries, and travel.
Preparing for Your Online Application
- Create or update your Immigration Online (ADEPT) account at https://www.immigration.govt.nz..
- Gather key documents: passport, proof of funds, letters of acceptance, and health checks.
- Draft personal statements or study plans in advance to avoid last-minute edits.
- Set reminders for these dates:
- 17 September 2025: Deadline for old-system draft submissions
- 18 September 2025: New-system applications go live
- November 2025: New work-hour allowance begins
Tips to Maximize Your Student Experience
- Track your application progress daily through Immigration Online.
- Line up part-time work or on-campus roles ahead of November’s rule change.
- Join student groups online to share advice on housing, transport, and budgeting.
- Check the official New Zealand student visa page regularly for updates: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-the-visa/student-visa
With these changes, New Zealand is making it easier than ever to apply for a student visa and balance study with work. Stay on top of deadlines, complete your online application in ADEPT, and get ready to make the most of your Kiwi adventure. Good luck!
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