The Government announced a plan to double the international education sector to $7.2 billion by 2034 today.
“On average, in 2024, an international student spent $45,000 across the year. That means more visits to our cafes and restaurants, more people visiting our iconic attractions, and ultimately more jobs being created,” Education Minister Erica Stanford said.
“With international student enrolments steadily increasing since 2023, we want to supercharge that growth track and make New Zealand the destination of choice for international students.”
From November, in-study work rights for eligible student visa holders will increase from 20 to 25 hours per week, and their eligibility will extend to all tertiary students enrolled in certain exchange and study abroad programmes.
A short-duration work visa of up to six months and simplifying the multi-year visa application process are also to be investigated.
Economic benefits extending beyond education
“International education is one of our largest exports, injecting $3.6 billion into our economy in 2024. It also provides opportunities for research, strengthening trade and people-to-people connections, which are important to drive investment, productivity and innovation in New Zealand.”
The International Education Going for Growth Plan aims to grow student enrolments from 83,700 in 2024 to 105,000 in 2027 and 119,000 by 2034.
It further looks to increase New Zealand’s presence as a study destination from 38% in 2024 to 42% in 2027 and 44% in 2034, and increase the proportion of prospective students rating New Zealand among their top three choices of study destination from 18% in 2024 to 20% in 2027 and 22% in 2034.
“In the short term, Education New Zealand will focus its promotional efforts on markets with the highest potential for growth. Across all markets, promotional activities will aim to elevate awareness of New Zealand as a premier study destination that is a safe and welcoming place to live and learn.
It’s important to strike the right balance between increasing student numbers, maintaining the quality of education, and managing broader impacts on New Zealanders.”
