New Zealand to tighten open work visa rules from April 20 2026

Your open work visa may shift between free work and agreement based jobs

New Zealand will update open work visa conditions starting April 20, 2026, introducing two new employment categories. Some visas will allow holders to work anywhere, including self-employment, while others will require employment under a specific agreement. The government says the move will provide clearer guidance, with transitional arrangements for current holders and updated eligibility for new applicants.