Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced changes effective 20 April 2026 to clarify what “open work” allows, particularly for people who are self-employed or running a business.

The key change is that open work visas will be split into two clear types of employment conditions, depending on the visa category.

Why INZ is making this change

Previously many migrants were confused about what type of work they were permitted to do while holding an “open” work visa. INZ says the changes are designed to provide clearer, more consistent visa conditions, so migrants and employers can better understand what is allowed.

What is not changing

• Employer-specific work visas (for example, the Accredited Employer Work Visa) are not impacted.
• These changes do not apply to Student Visa holders.
• Work relating to providing commercial sexual services is still prohibited.

The two new types of conditions

1) Open work visas allowing “any work”

Some open work visa holders will be able to do any work, including:

• Working for an employer,
• Sole trading,
• Owning and operating a business

INZ days this condition will apply to these visa categories:

• Partner of a Worker Visa,
• Partner of a Student Work Visa (including certain NZ Scholarship-supported categories)
• Post Study Work Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Residence Visa
• Partner of a Military Work Visa

2) Open work visas requiring work "for an employer"

Other open work visa holders must work for an employer, either:

• Under an employment agreement, or
• Under a contract for services (which INZ says it treats as "employment")

This condition will apply to holders of other types of open work visas, most notably all Working Holiday visas.

Conditions that apply to all open work visas

INZ highlights that all open work visa holders must:

• Comply with visa conditions and NZ employment/business laws.
• Not employ other people, directly or indirectly through a business they operate.
• Not provide commercial sexual services, or run/invest in a business that provide them.

Transitional arrangements

I you currently hold an open work visa and have been doing work that isn't permitted, INZ has indicated there will be transitional arrangements to allow people time to adjust and comply.

What you should do next

• Check which open work visa category you hold (this determines which condition applies from 20 April 2026).
• If you are self-employed, contracting, or running a small business, double-check whether your visa will fall into the “any work” group or the “work for an employer” group.
• If your situation is complex (for example, contracting through a company structure), get advice early so you can plan ahead of renewals.

If you would like help understanding what these changes mean for your current work arrangements or your next visa application, our immigration team can assist.

Please contact the experts at Queen City Law for assistance.

Disclaimer:

This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice.