- New Zealand government plans to double its international education sector to NZ$7.2 billion (US$4.32 billion) by 2034.
- The initiative is described as a “supercharged” strategy by Education Minister Erica Stanford.
- This plan contrasts with tightening immigration restrictions in countries like the United States and Australia.
The New Zealand government on Sunday announced an ambitious plan to double the size of its international education sector to NZ$7.2 billion (US$4.32 billion) by 2034 a move that sharply contrasts with immigration restrictions being imposed in countries like the United States and Australia.
Education Minister Erica Stanford described the new initiative as a “supercharged” strategy aimed at boosting one of the nation’s most profitable service exports.
Currently valued at NZ$3.6 billion, the sector has been steadily recovering since 2023, following years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“In the short term, Education New Zealand will focus its promotional efforts on markets with the highest potential for growth,” Stanford said.
According to the government, international student numbers are expected to rise from 83,700 in 2024 to 105,000 by 2027 and then to 119,000 by 2034. To support this expansion, the government will loosen existing restrictions that previously capped international student work hours at 20 per week.
New rules explained
Under the revised policy, eligible students can now work up to 25 hours per week. Additionally, participants in approved exchange and study-abroad programs will become eligible for new work rights and visa extensions.
These reforms are part of a broader plan to position New Zealand as a premier destination for global education, at a time when other countries are tightening access.
In the United States, former President Donald Trump’s administration implemented strict limits on student visas, particularly for Chinese nationals. In one high-profile case, the White House revoked Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, though the decision was later blocked by a federal judge. Despite the reversal, the incident contributed to a notable decline in international applications.
Australia, another key player in the region, announced a cap of 270,000 new international student enrollments for 2025. The restriction is part of an effort to ease housing pressure, as rising immigration has been linked to rental price spikes across the country.
New Zealand’s counter-approach
New Zealand, however, is adopting a different path viewing international students as economic partners rather than burdens.
Education New Zealand will now refocus its marketing efforts on high-potential regions. Although specific countries were not named, sources suggest that emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America are likely targets due to their increasing demand for quality foreign education.
The push to grow the education sector is part of a larger economic strategy. Confronted with sluggish GDP growth and rising living costs, the government has also launched new visa categories to attract digital nomads and foreign investors moves designed to bring in fresh capital and innovation.
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