Unsure about the process of securing a job while overseas? Allow us to assist you in commencing your employment journey in New Zealand.
While studying in New Zealand as an international student, you may have the opportunity to work part-time. This can help cover some of your living expenses or give you experience related to your field. However, it’s important to note that this income alone won’t be enough for full financial support while studying abroad.
Therefore, make sure you have sufficient funds available throughout your program duration. Be aware of the specific conditions allowing you to work and maintain a valid visa status at all times.
Our analysis of the job prospects available to international students in New Zealand can serve as a useful starting point for you.
Can I be employed as an International Student?
Your passport visa indicates whether you are authorized to work and its validity period. Additionally, Immigration New Zealand may have granted permission for your employment activities, which will be confirmed via a letter of approval.
Meeting one of seven requirements is necessary to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Among the various prerequisites, the most prevalent ones include:
- The minimum duration of your study program is two years.
- Completing the course of study results in a New Zealand certification, which enables point acquisition under the Skilled Migrant Category.
- The English language course you are enrolled in fulfills the requirements sanctioned by Immigration New Zealand.
There are exceptional circumstances where certain students may be permitted to exceed the limit of 20 hours per week for work.
Your qualification may involve work as well. For instance, if your coursework mandates a specific number of hours for necessary on-the-job training, it can exceed the 20-hour threshold per week.
Those pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree by research at an institution in New Zealand are permitted to engage in full-time work during their studies.
What is the way for me to discover a job?
To find employment opportunities, you have two options: browse through several job websites on the internet or visit your university’s career center for guidance.
WorkHere and WorkingIn are among New Zealand’s most popular online platforms to hunt for jobs that match your preferred location and skill set. These portals streamline the search process by allowing customization of searches according to specific preferences.
Working during designated breaks
Full-time work is permitted for eligible students during scheduled breaks.
If your program has a duration of one academic year and is valued at or above 120 credits, you might qualify for full-time employment during all planned breaks.
If your academic year consists of a full-time program but holds less than 120 credits, you may have the opportunity to work during Christmas and New Year’s break on a full-time basis.
What work options are available to me?
From November to March, New Zealand experiences its summer season. This period proves to be the most hectic for job opportunities in tourism-related sectors, and it’s worth noting that the Christmas holidays also fall within this time frame in New Zealand. Standard roles like those available at shops, bars, hotels – both big and small -,
lodges are easily accessible during summers here. Regarding employment postings with larger hospitality businesses/restaurants; although Season Workers or similar websites may advertise such openings connecting directly is suggested as well by introducing oneself via phone/email firstly just check if they have any vacancies up presently that would prove beneficial towards personalizing your approach rather than being another faceless application process.
In New Zealand, the agricultural sector is of significant proportions and necessitates a substantial number of seasonal employees for crop gathering and sheep shearing. Young travelers often opt to engage in fruit-picking work despite its arduous nature and minimal time off because it provides them with sufficient funds for their inter-job travels while also providing free sustenance.
The picking season lasts almost throughout summer (December – May) primarily focused on soft fruits.
Tutor for personal one-on-one sessions
Other students or those in the local school/community can receive private tutoring from fellow peers. This option is favored by foreign language-speaking students who offer English speakers conversational practice and guidance in their native language.
Based at a university
On occasion, major corporations compensate specific students to act as their brand ambassadors on campus.
This typically involves distributing promotional posters for the company, organizing events that showcase their offerings, and devising other strategies aimed at marketing them to classmates. Compensation can take the form of a fixed payment or an hourly wage, depending upon the nature of your assigned duties.
Conclusion
If you violate your visa conditions, deportation could be one of the consequences. To clarify any doubts regarding your entitlements, please consult an Immigration New Zealand branch officer or a certified immigration adviser.
