WELLINGTON, July 14 (Reuters) – New Zealand aims to double the value of its international education sector by 2034 through a series of new initiatives, including easing part-time work restrictions for foreign students, the government announced on Monday.
Education Minister Erica Stanford said international student numbers have been rising steadily since 2023, and the government now intends to “supercharge that growth track” to reach NZ$7.2 billion (US$4.32 billion) in economic value by 2034.
This move contrasts with policies in popular study destinations like Australia and the United States, where efforts are underway to limit foreign student enrolments. New Zealand sees this as an opportunity to attract more international students amid tightening rules elsewhere.
“In the short term, Education New Zealand will concentrate its promotional campaigns on markets with the highest growth potential,” Stanford noted.
Currently valued at NZ$3.6 billion, New Zealand’s international education sector supports tens of thousands of students. The government’s targets include increasing international student numbers from 83,700 in 2024 to 105,000 by 2027 and 119,000 by 2034.
Key measures include raising the maximum weekly work hours for eligible international students from 20 to 25, and expanding post-study work rights to all tertiary-level students participating in approved exchange or study abroad programs.
While New Zealand seeks to boost its education market, countries like the U.S. and Australia are scaling back. The Biden administration has placed tighter controls on student visas, including a controversial—later blocked—attempt to bar Harvard University from enrolling foreign students. Meanwhile, Australia has capped international student enrolments at 270,000 for 2025, aiming to control migration and address rising housing costs.
Amid sluggish economic growth, New Zealand is also introducing other pro-growth initiatives, including visa reforms to attract digital nomads and foreign investors.
