New Zealand has announced new rules affecting holders of open work visas. The updated policy will take effect on April 20, 2026, introducing clearer guidelines about the type of work visa holders can perform.
The reform aims to remove confusion for migrants and employers by defining exactly what types of employment are allowed under different open work visa categories.
What an Open Work Visa Means in New Zealand
An open work visa allows migrants to work for almost any employer, in any location and occupation within New Zealand.
Unlike employer-specific visas, open work visas do not require applicants to secure a job offer before applying.
This flexibility distinguishes them from visas such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa, which ties the migrant to a specific employer and job role.
Two Categories of Open Work Visas
Beginning April 2026, open work visas will be divided into two categories depending on the type of work permitted.
1. Open Work Visas Allowing Any Type of Work
Some visa holders will continue to have full flexibility. These individuals will be allowed to:
- Work for any employer
- Operate their own business
- Be self-employed
This group includes:
- Partners of work visa holders
- Partners of student visa holders
- Partners of scholarship-supported students
- Post-study work visa holders
- Partners of New Zealand citizens or residents with work rights
- Partners of military visa holders
These visa holders can continue working with minimal restrictions.
2. Open Work Visas Requiring Employment With an Employer
Another category of open work visas will require migrants to work directly for an employer.
Under this rule, visa holders must have:
- A formal employment contract, or
- A service agreement with an employer
People under this category cannot run their own business or operate as independent workers.
This rule applies to:
- Working holiday visa holders
- Victims of domestic violence work visas
- Victims of human trafficking work visas
- Asylum seeker work visas
- Migrant exploitation protection visas
These restrictions aim to ensure proper employment structures for certain visa groups.
Rules That Apply to All Open Work Visa Holders
Regardless of the visa category, all open work visa holders must follow New Zealand employment and business laws.
Key restrictions include:
- Complying with local employment regulations
- Not hiring employees through a business they own
- Not providing commercial sexual services
- Not investing in or operating businesses related to commercial sexual services
These restrictions remain consistent across all open work visa types.
What Happens if Your Current Job Will Not Be Allowed
Visa holders currently working in roles that may not meet the new requirements can continue their work until their current visa expires.
However, once they apply for a new visa, they must comply with the updated employment conditions tied to their visa category.
This transition period allows migrants to adjust their employment arrangements before the next visa application.
Impact on Working Holiday Visa Holders
The changes will particularly affect people traveling to New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa.
These visa holders typically combine travel with short-term employment to support their stay.
Starting April 2026, they will be required to work for an employer rather than operate their own business or work independently.
For most travelers taking temporary jobs, this change may not significantly affect their plans. However, those working remotely or freelancing should review the new rules carefully.
Why New Zealand Is Introducing These Changes
The government aims to clarify employment rules for migrants and employers alike.
By categorizing open work visas more clearly, authorities hope to reduce misunderstandings regarding what type of work is permitted under each visa type.
Conclusion
The new open work visa framework coming into force on April 20, 2026, will introduce clearer rules for migrants working in New Zealand.
While many visa holders will still enjoy flexible employment options, others will be required to work directly for employers rather than operate independently.
Migrants currently holding or planning to apply for an open work visa should review the new classifications carefully to ensure they meet the updated requirements.