- New Zealand will implement updated employment conditions for open work visa holders on April 20, 2026.
- The reforms aim to clarify the types of work permitted under these visas.
- Changes are designed to enhance compliance with labor and business regulations.
New Zealand is set to introduce updated employment conditions for individuals holding open work visas starting April 20, 2026. The reforms aim to clarify permissible work types and enhance compliance with the country’s labour and business regulations.
Immigration authorities say the changes are intended to provide migrants with a clearer understanding of their rights and responsibilities while reducing confusion for employers. Officials added that consistent visa conditions will promote safer, fairer, and more transparent workplace practices across New Zealand.
A statement on the New Zealand immigration website explains:
“On 20 April 2026, we will implement updated employment conditions for open work visa holders. We recognise that many migrants may be unfamiliar with New Zealand’s employment laws and business regulations. These changes focus on education, ensuring visa holders fully understand their work rights and obligations. Student Visa holders are not affected by these updates.”
Understanding Open Work Visas
An open work visa allows migrants to work for almost any employer in any role or location without requiring a job offer in advance. This contrasts with employer-specific visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which tie the holder to a designated employer and position.
What the New Rules Mean
From April 20, 2026, open work visas will fall into one of two categories:
Unlimited Work Flexibility – Visa holders in this category can work for any employer, operate as sole traders, or own and manage a business. This applies to multiple visa types, including:
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa with a New Zealand Scholarship funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Post Study Work Visa
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
- Partner of a Military Work Visa
- Related visa categories
Employer-Limited Work– Visa holders in this category are restricted to working for an employer under either an employment agreement or a contract for services. This applies to:
- Victims of domestic violence
- Victims of human trafficking
- Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa holders
- Asylum seekers
- Working holiday visa holders
All open work visa holders must comply with both their visa conditions and New Zealand’s employment and business laws. Authorities emphasized that visa holders cannot employ others, either directly or indirectly through a business they own or manage. Additionally, they are prohibited from offering commercial sexual services or participating in businesses connected to such services.
Background
Over the past year, New Zealand has implemented several changes to its work visa system. In November 2025, the immigration framework for work visa evaluation was updated with the introduction of a National Occupation List (NOL), replacing the long-standing Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
The country also launched two new seasonal visa categories under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework to create more opportunities for temporary foreign workers. Additionally, the adult minimum wage was raised starting April 1, 2026, to support low-income earners while balancing the impact on businesses.
What Migrants Should Know
Individuals currently on open work visas may continue activities that will be restricted under the new rules (excluding commercial sexual services) until their visas expire. This transition period allows migrants time to understand and adapt to the updated requirements before applying for a new visa.
Future visa applications will require migrants to meet the employment conditions associated with their specific visa category. Working holiday visa holders are reminded that their visas are primarily for tourism, with work permitted only to support their temporary stay in New Zealand.
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