New Zealand Aims to Double International Education Sector by 2034 Under New Growth Plan

Wellington: New Zealand has unveiled an ambitious 10-year strategy the International Education: Going for Growth Plan aimed at transforming the country into a top global education destination. Announced on July 14, 2025, the plan seeks to double the sector’s economic value from NZ$3.6 billion in 2024 to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034. Backed by expanded work rights, new post-study visa pathways, and targeted international marketing, the initiative positions New Zealand as a flexible and future-ready alternative amid tightening immigration rules in countries like Australia, Canada, and the US.

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The plan outlines three key growth targets:

Student enrolments: from 83,400 in 2024 to 105,000 by 2027 and 119,000 by 2034

Study destination awareness: increase from 40 percent in 2024 to 42 percent by 2027 and 44 percent by 2034

Top 3 global preference rating: improve from 18 percent to 22 percent by 2034

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Policy Measures to Drive Growth

One of the central changes is the expansion of in-study work rights. From November 3, 2025, eligible student visa holders can work up to 25 hours per week, up from the current 20 hours. This change applies to new student visas, including short-term exchange and study abroad students.

The government will also introduce a six-month post-study bridging visa for sub-degree graduates. This is intended to help students transition into New Zealand’s post-study employment pathways, including the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

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Immigration Reforms and Marketing Push

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is developing multi-year student visas for long-term programmes and a short-duration visa for students enrolling in smaller qualifications. These reforms aim to streamline processes and reduce administrative barriers.

In parallel, Education New Zealand (ENZ) will lead a global marketing strategy targeting high-potential markets such as India, Vietnam, the Philippines, Japan, and Thailand. This includes international education fairs, AI-based support tools, agent training, and enhanced quality assurance.

Strategic Context

New Zealand’s new strategy comes at a time when countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States are imposing stricter immigration and student visa policies. The plan positions New Zealand as a flexible and high-trust destination for international students.

The broader goal aligns with national efforts to support economic recovery and workforce development. International students contribute significantly to sectors such as tourism, retail, and housing. In 2024, student spending averaged NZ$45,000 annually per individual.

Key Milestones

July 14, 2025: Plan announced

November 3, 2025: New 25-hour in-study work rule comes into effect

2027: Target enrolments reach 105,000

2034: Enrolments to hit 119,000; sector value projected at NZ$7.2 billion

The plan also includes investments in digital platforms, student well-being services, and visa processing enhancements.

With a proactive framework and strong global engagement, New Zealand aims to reclaim and strengthen its standing as a top-tier international study destination in the coming decade.