New Zealand
How to study and work in New Zealand?
Most people prefer New Zealand for migration because of its diverse, multicultural, and inclusive environment. It is the world’s second safest country to live in. These reasons, and more, make New Zealand a popular study destination. New Zealand offers a very supportive environment for students. Its immigration policies allow students to work while they are studying as well. Undoubtedly working while you study helps to ease out your finances. Yet, there’s much more you can gain out of it.
“I saved a decent amount of money with my part-time jobs while studying. The best feature of New Zealand education is that it allows you to perfectly balance study and work with its flexible study curriculum,” says University of Waikato alumni Nicholas Soler.
Knowing your work rights
New Zealand student visas allow part-time work. You may be allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week and full-time during all scheduled holidays and the Christmas and New Year holiday period. If you are allowed to work, your work rights will be recorded in your eVisa or the visa label in your passport or explained to you in a letter. So, do read and understand your visa conditions properly as any breaches will have unfavorable consequences.
As a PhD and Masters by research student, you generally will not have any restrictions on the hours you can work. This means you can work full time. International students are not allowed to be self-employed. You must work for an employer and have an employment agreement. You cannot provide or work in commercial sexual services.
Life-changing benefits
“I didn’t work during my semesters because I lacked study funds. It was mainly ‘çoz I wanted to gain local work experience, build a network and earn extra pocket money for my extra-curricular activities,” Nicholas adds.
You can earn extra money when you work part-time while studying. Besides providing financial support, it will make you more accustomed to the work culture of New Zealand and build professional connections. You’ll start acquainting with more people which will help you nurture your soft skills. Besides earning an income and networking, you’ll Increase your marketability. By the time you finish studying, you’ll gain local work experience which will enhance your CV with credible experience. Being financially independent teaches you the value and management of earnings.
Working without money
New Zealand, as a country, gives a lot of focus on community services. You may do volunteer work while in New Zealand on a student visa. To be a volunteer, you must not expect or receive any gain or reward. However, benefits always need not be monetary. While you work to serve the community or work under unpaid internships, you will be cultivating valuable skills. You will receive valuable experience, letters of recommendation, and referrals which will have a positive effect on future employment. You’ll also build a strong professional network. So, you might consider being a volunteer to serve the community or work as an unpaid intern.
Vital preps
Begin by chalking out a plan and schedule based on your academic timetable. Inform your college and professor about your intent to work part-time. They can also help you get a part-time job. At times there will be ample job opportunities right on your campus itself. The advisors in your college or university can help in making an impressive CV, cover letter, and assist with interview preparations. Take good advantage of their career advice. There are many work-from-home job vacancies advertised on job portals like SeekNZ, LinkedIn and SJS. By being disciplined and organized you will be able to balance your lectures, assignments, work, and leisure successfully.
By now, you should have a fair idea of the benefits of working part-time as a student. Make sure you leave yourself time to study and enjoy New Zealand. Don’t get carried away with the earnings and stray away from your primary goal – completing your studies well for future career success.
