Updates to Work Rights for Open Work Visa Holders
If you’re planning to move to New Zealand and may work here on an open work visa, there are important changes coming that you should understand. Immigration New Zealand has announced updates to how work rights are defined under open work visas, helping migrants and employers better understand what type of work is allowed. These changes take effect from 20 April 2026.
What is an Open Work Visa?
An open work visa lets you work in New Zealand without needing a job offer tied to a specific employer or role. It’s very different from an employer-specific visa, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which limits you to one employer and job.
Open visas are particularly popular with:
Partners of workers or students
Post-study work visa holders
Working holiday visitors
People in certain humanitarian visa categories
What Changes Are Coming?
Starting 20 April 2026, all open work visas will include one of two clear work conditions, designed to make it easier to understand what work is permitted under each type of visa.
1. Open Work Visas Allowing Any Work
Holders of these can:
Work for any employer
Be self-employed
Operate or run a business
Visas in this category include:
Partner of a Worker Work Visa
Partner of a Student Work Visa
Partner of a Military Work Visa
2. Open Work Visas Requiring Employment with an Employer
Some open work visa types will now be clearly defined as requiring you to work for an employer. This means you must be employed under an employment agreement or contract for services, which is generally treated as employment.
This condition applies to visas such as:
Victims of Domestic Violence Work Visa
Asylum Seeker Work Visa
Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa
Working Holiday Visa holders will continue to be able to work only for employers, they cannot start a business or work for themselves.
What This Means for You Before Moving
Here’s how these changes can affect your plans:
Planning to run a business? Make sure your visa type allows any work before you arrive.
Want job flexibility? Some visa categories now clearly allow you to work for any employer or start your own business.
Working holiday plans? Remember this category still requires employer-based work.
Already in NZ on an open work visa? Check your conditions; you may be able to continue your current work until your visa expires.
