From 20 April 2026, the Immigration New Zealand will introduce important updates to employment conditions for people holding open work visas.
The goal of these changes is to provide clearer guidance on what types of work are permitted under open work visas. By clarifying visa conditions, the government aims to reduce confusion, promote fair employment practices, and ensure migrants and employers better understand their rights and responsibilities.
Importantly, these changes do not affect employer-specific visas and do not apply to Student Visa holders.
What Is an Open Work Visa?
An open work visa allows you to work for almost any employer, in any job, anywhere in New Zealand — without needing a job offer.
This is different from employer-specific visas such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which ties a migrant to one employer and a specific role. Employer-specific visas will not be impacted by the new rules.
Two New Employment Condition Categories
From 20 April 2026, open work visas will include one of two employment conditions.
1️⃣ Open Work Visas Allowing Any Type of Work
Some open work visa holders will be allowed to:
- Work for an employer
- Be self-employed (sole trader)
- Own and operate a business
This condition will apply to:
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa supported by 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
2️⃣ Open Work Visas Requiring Work for an Employer
Other open work visa holders must work only for an employer, either:
- Under an employment agreement
- Through a contract for services (which is still considered employment)
This condition will apply to:
- Victims of Domestic Violence Work Visa
- Victims of People Trafficking Work Visa
- Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa
- Asylum Seeker Work Visa
- All Working Holiday Visas
Rules That Apply to All Open Work Visas
Regardless of category, all open work visa holders must:
- Comply with New Zealand employment and business laws
- Follow all visa conditions
However, open work visa holders cannot:
- Employ other people directly
- Employ others indirectly through a business they own
- Provide commercial sexual services
- Run or invest in businesses that provide commercial sexual services
Transitional Arrangements
If you are currently doing work that will not be allowed under your updated visa conditions (excluding commercial sexual services), you may continue until your current visa expires.
This grace period allows migrants time to:
- Understand the new rules
- Adjust employment or business arrangements
- Prepare for future visa applications
For any future visa applications, you must meet the employment conditions of the visa category you apply under.
Important Update for Working Holiday Visa Holders
The main purpose of a Working Holiday Visa is tourism. While temporary work is allowed to support your stay:
- You must work for an employer
- You must be under an employment agreement or contract for services
- You cannot operate your own business
Why This Matters
These updates aim to create safer and more transparent working conditions in New Zealand. Migrants are encouraged to review their visa conditions carefully and seek clarification where necessary.
For full details and to check your visa conditions;
VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF IMMIGRATION NEW ZEALAND.
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