New Zealand Master's by Research: Student Work Hours Change (2026)

Last reviewed: 11 November 2026. This guide is general information based on Immigration New Zealand (INZ) pages. INZ pages we read do not always show a last-updated date, so confirm current rules on the INZ website. It is not individual immigration advice.

If you plan to study a master's by research in New Zealand, one rule has changed. INZ has removed the unlimited in-study work rights that new master's-by-research students used to receive. New students now get the same limit as other master's students. This guide explains what changed, who it affects, and what it means for your budget and planning.

What Changed for Master's by Research Students?

INZ's page on changes to student visas states: "Unlimited in-study work rights for new master's-by-research students have been removed." All new master's students now have the same conditions of 25 hours a week during study and full-time during holidays. INZ says the change reinforces that the primary purpose of a student visa is study.

When Does It Apply?

INZ says the change applies only to new student visas where the application was made on or after 27 October 2026. The date that matters is when the visa application was made, not when your course starts.

What Was the Rule Before?

Under INZ guidance in Visa Pak 625 (16 May 2025), eligible master's-by-research students had unlimited work rights for the full duration of their programme. To qualify, the student had to be enrolled in a master's at a New Zealand university or polytechnic that included at least 90 credits of research, such as a thesis or dissertation. That guidance covered programmes where coursework comes first and at least 90 research credits follow. It also said private training establishments did not meet the criteria, although officers could grant the condition as an exception.

The General Limit Is Now 25 Hours

Separately, INZ raised the general in-study limit from 20 to 25 hours a week during the semester for eligible students, with effect from 3 November 2025. So the new master's-by-research position is the same as the standard position: 25 hours a week during study, with full-time allowed in holidays.

Quick Summary

• Old rule: unlimited in-study work rights for eligible master's-by-research students (Visa Pak 625, May 2025).
• New rule: 25 hours a week during study and full-time during holidays.
• Applies to: new student visas where the application was made on or after 27 October 2026.
• Reason given by INZ: a student visa's primary purpose is study.

What This Means for Your Planning

Do not build your budget around work income. A student visa is granted to study, and INZ requires you to show you can pay for your tuition and living costs. Read our guides on proof of funds for the NZ student visa and the cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students before you finalise your plan.

If you are choosing between a taught master's and a research master's, compare the course structure, supervision and fees. Work rights should not be the deciding factor. See our list of top universities in New Zealand to start your shortlist.

What Is Not Confirmed

• Whether students who applied before 27 October 2026 keep unlimited rights. The INZ page says the change applies only to applications made on or after that date, but we found no separate statement on existing visa holders.
• Doctoral students. The INZ page we read does not mention them.
• Partner work rights. The INZ page does not mention them.
• Whether the private training establishment exception from the 2025 guidance has changed.
• The exact wording on your own visa. Your visa conditions are what apply to you, so read them carefully when granted.

If any of these affect you, check the INZ website or speak with a Licensed Immigration Adviser before you apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have unlimited work rights for master's by research students been removed?

INZ states that unlimited in-study work rights for new master's-by-research students have been removed. New students get 25 hours a week during study and full-time during holidays.

When did the change start?

INZ says it applies to new student visas where the application was made on or after 27 October 2026.

What was the limit before?

Under Visa Pak 625 (16 May 2025), eligible master's-by-research students had unlimited in-study work rights for the full programme.

How many hours can master's students work now?

INZ lists 25 hours a week during study and full-time during holidays for new master's students.

Does this affect doctoral students?

The INZ page we read does not mention doctoral students. Check with INZ.

Can I rely on work income to pay my fees?

No. You must show you can fund your tuition and living costs for the visa. See INZ's student fund requirements.

Conclusion: Plan Your Research Master's Around Study, Not Work

The change for new master's-by-research students is clear on INZ's page: unlimited in-study work rights are gone, and the standard 25-hour limit applies to visa applications made on or after 27 October 2026. Planning a research master's in New Zealand? Derrick Jones Management can help you understand the process and next steps with a Licensed Immigration Adviser. Book a free consultation to discuss your plans. We cannot promise visa approval.

Disclaimer: immigration requirements change. This article is general information, not individual advice. Check current guidance on the INZ website before you act.

Sources: Immigration New Zealand, Changes to student visas; Upcoming changes to student visa work rights; Visa Pak 625, Work right conditions for students undertaking a Masters by research (16 May 2025). Accessed 11 November 2026.