Students who wish to work part-time during their study will need to apply for a variation of conditions to their visa.  See www.immigration.govt.nz – go to Forms and Guides, select Study Forms and download Application for Variations of Conditions 1020.  A fee may apply.  

Students can work part time while studying full time for up to 20 hours a week during the academic year if the student is full-time in 1 of these situations:

•    at a PTE or tertiary institution, for 2+ year course

•    completing a New Zealand qualification that fits Skilled Migrant Category

•    at a secondary school full year course of study in years 12 or 13

•    in full-time study course of at least 6 months, at PTE or tertiary institution (main purpose of study to develop English language skills)

•    at a tertiary level of at least 1 year as part of approved tertiary student exchange scheme

•    studying Level 5+ qualification for minimum 1 year (NZQA approved).

Secondary school Year 12 and 13 students will need written permission from their school and written consent from their parent/legal guardian

Students can also work part time while studying full time to meet course requirements for practical work experience or during the Christmas and New Year holiday period (this applies to students in a full-time course of study lasting 12 months or longer.)

Labour laws

Strict laws set out the responsibilities of workers and employers:

•    Employers must not take advantage of or mistreat employees

•    There is a minimum adult wage, and regulations for holiday pay and health and safety in the workplace

•    No gender discrimination is allowed - men and women receive equal pay for doing the same job.

For more information contact the Department of Labour – www.dol.govt.nz .