As visa policies tighten in traditional education destinations like the USA, Canada, and Australia, international student flows have begun to shift their routes. New Zealand is filling this gap with its 2034 vision. HUB EDU Director Simon Boncukçu’s ICEF ANZA contacts and his visit to the Turkish Ambassador in Wellington, Mr. Melih Karalar, have unlocked the codes of a new era for Turkish students.
The new strategy, coordinated by the New Zealand Ministry of Education and Immigration New Zealand (INZ), aims to double the country’s international education market within 10 years. The legal regulations coming into force in November 2025 are seen not just as “visa flexibility” but as part of the country’s economic development plan.
During an official meeting with our Ambassador in Wellington, Mr. Melih Karalar, our Director Simon Boncukçu discussed New Zealand’s growing interest in Turkish students and the educational bridges between the two countries. The most critical highlight of the meeting was New Zealand positioning qualified Turkish students not just as “visitors,” but as potential professionals of the future.
The 20-hour limit, which was the biggest obstacle for students wishing to finance their education costs, is now history. With the new legal regulation, the right to work has been increased to 25 hours per week.
“Post-graduation stay plans,” which used to be hidden for fear of visa rejection, are no longer an obstacle for New Zealand. According to confirmation from immigration authorities, stating the intention to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa in the letter of intent no longer increases visa risk. This is the most concrete indicator of a transparent immigration policy.
New Zealand aims to attract talented students along with their families. While spouses of students enrolled in certain level programs are granted full-time work rights, their children are offered educational support in local public schools.
Recent research proves that 70% of New Zealanders view international students as a cultural and economic asset. The country, which consistently ranks at the top of the world’s safest countries list, reinforces its image as a “home away from home” through this social acceptance.
“Visa uncertainty” in Australia has turned New Zealand into a “safe haven” for students seeking prestigious education. It is of strategic importance to take advantage of these privileges offered under the 2034 vision before the quotas are filled.
You can contact our expert counsellors to draw your roadmap with information brought directly from the field by Simon Boncukçu regarding these new opportunities and application prerequisites offered by New Zealand.
