New Zealand to introduce changes to open work visa conditions from April 20

New Zealand will introduce changes to employment conditions for open work visa holders from April 20, 2026, according to an official statement by Immigration New Zealand. The update is announced to provide clearer guidance on what type of work is allowed under different open visa categories.

An open work visa allows holders to work for almost any employer, in any job or location in New Zealand, without requiring a job offer.
The new rules will not affect employer-specific visas, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Student visa holders are also not covered by these changes.

Two new employment conditions

From April 20, open work visas will include one of two employment conditions.

Some visas will allow holders to undertake any work, including employment, self-employment, or running a business. This category includes partner-based work visas, the Post Study Work Visa, and certain partner visas linked to students, New Zealand citizens, military personnel, or scholarship holders.

Other open work visas will require holders to work for an employer under an employment agreement or contract for services. Visas in this category include those issued to victims of domestic violence, victims of people trafficking, migrant exploitation protection cases, asylum seekers, and all working holiday visa holders.

General conditions remain in place

Regardless of the specific condition, all open work visa holders must comply with New Zealand’s employment and business laws. Visa holders cannot employ others, either directly or indirectly through a business they own. They are also not permitted to provide commercial sexual services or operate or invest in businesses that provide such services.

Transitional arrangements

The government said that individuals who are currently performing work not permitted under their visa, excluding commercial sexual services, may continue until their visa expires. This transition period is intended to give migrants time to understand the updated conditions and make necessary adjustments before applying for a new visa.

Applicants for future visas must meet the employment conditions linked to the approved visa category.

The immigration authority has advised visa holders to check their specific conditions online and contact officials for further clarification if needed.