New Zealand Working

Services for Students
Studying in New Zealand

If you are studying a three-year course in New Zealand, you are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week during the academic year and during the summer vacation.

However, to be able to work, you will need a variation of conditions (VOC) to your student permit. To get a variation of conditions, you will need to complete a VOC application form. These are available online at:
www.immigration.govt.nz/NR/rdonlyres/

You can also pick up an application form from a New Zealand Immigration Service office or from the International Student Office on campus. Hand in the form at the NZIS office or post it to them.

If your course requires you to work, you will be required to get a VOC as mentioned above. Even if you are not eligible to work, it may be possible to get a VOC to work if it forms part of your degree. You will need to write a letter explaining your situation and have some documentation from your university to say that the work is part of your degree.

Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Number

When you start a job, the employer will ask for your IRD number, which is your tax number. This is an individual number, which you should apply for at the Inland Revenue Department. You can phone them from anywhere in New Zealand on 0800 227 774, between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. For more information, see: www.ird.govt.nz