Starting 20 April, 2026, New Zealand will introduce new rules for people holding open work visas. The changes are meant to make the system clearer, safer, and fairer for both migrants and employers, while ensuring that everyone follows the country’s employment laws.
An open work visa allows a person to work for almost any employer, in any role or location, without needing a job offer. This is different from employer specific visas, which tie workers to one employer and one role. Under the new rules, open work visa holders will fall into two categories. Some visas will allow holders to do any kind of work, including working for an employer, being self employed, or running their own business. This applies to visas such as the
Post Study Work Visa, Partner of a Worker Work Visa, and Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa. Other visas will require holders to work only for an employer, either through an employment agreement or a contract for services. This applies to visas such as the Victims of Domestic Violence Work Visa, Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa, ‘asylum seeker’ visas, and all ‘working holiday’ visas.
Regardless of category, all open work visa holders must follow New Zealand’s employment and business laws. They cannot employ others, provide commercial sexual services, or run businesses offering such services. For those already working outside their permitted conditions, they will be allowed to continue until their visa expires, giving them time to adjust. ‘Working holiday’ visa holders may only take temporary jobs to support their stay and cannot operate businesses.
The government expects these changes to reduce uncertainty, improve compliance, and create a more organised and fair workplace environment for both migrants and employers.
