Can I work while studying in New Zealand on a student visa?

Yes, most international students in New Zealand can work while studying. Work rights are typically included on your student visa.

Standard student visa work rights:
- During term time: 20 hours per week maximum
- During scheduled breaks (holidays): Full-time work permitted (no hour limit)

Partners of students: If your partner holds a New Zealand student visa, they typically receive an open work visa allowing full-time work.

When work rights are NOT included:
- Short English language courses (under 14 weeks)
- Some primary and secondary school visas
- Check your actual visa — work rights are printed on it

How to check your work rights:
Look at your visa (either the visa label or the letter/eVisa document) — it will state "may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks" or similar.

Post-study periods:
Once you complete your degree, apply for the Post-Study Work Visa to continue working.

Tax in New Zealand:
You must have an IRD number (Inland Revenue Department) to work. Apply at ird.govt.nz as soon as you start employment. New Zealand has a pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) system — tax is deducted from your pay automatically.

Minimum wage: Currently NZD $23.15/hour (2024) — applies to all workers including international students.