Post Study Work Visa
Studying abroad can be great for international students. In New Zealand, you not only get a top-notch education and beautiful scenery but also a chance to work after you graduate. This helps you smoothly move from being a student to starting your career, and you can contribute your skills to the Kiwi community.
Post Study Work Visa Overview
For many international students, studying abroad is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s also about gaining valuable work experience and exploring career opportunities. New Zealand, known for its high-quality education system and stunning landscapes, offers a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) visa that allows eligible graduates to work in the country after completing their studies to gain work experience.
Note: You also need to submit your application no later than 3 months after the end date of your student visa for that qualification.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a New Zealand Post Study Work Visa, you must have completed one of the following qualifications in New Zealand:
- Degree level 7 or above qualification.
- Non-degree level 7 or below qualification listed on the Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa list.
- Additionally, students who applied for their Student Visa before May 12, 2022, may be eligible for the PSWV even if their qualification is not listed, provided they hold an acceptable qualification.
Acceptable Qualifications (Pre-May 12, 2022):
To determine if your qualification is acceptable in New Zealand:
- Your study must have taken place in New Zealand.
- Your qualification must be Level 4 or higher according to the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQA).
If your qualification is Level 7 or higher:
- It is acceptable if your course lasted 30 weeks or more.
If your qualification is at Levels 4 to 6:
- It is acceptable if:
- You completed it after studying for 60 weeks or more, or
- You obtained 2 qualifications:
- Each involving at least 30 weeks of study, and
- The level of your last qualification was higher than the first.
Visa Conditions / Work Rights
| Course level | Post-study work visa conditions |
| Level 9 (Masters) & 10 (PhD) |
Open
|
| Level 8 (post-graduate diploma) | Open |
| Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree | Open |
| Non-degree level 7 or below | You must take a job that is related to what you studied. |
How Long Can You Stay?
Your visa duration hinges on your qualification level:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s: Up to 1-3 years
- PhD: 3 years
It is crucial to note the transition period regarding the visa’s duration based on the timing of the student visa application:
-
- Pre-May 11, 2022: Applicants may be eligible for the post-study work visa for up to three years, adhering to the previous regulations.
- Post-May 11, 2022: The duration of the visa aligns with the length of the study program pursued.
The duration of your post-study visa depends on the course you are studying in New Zealand.
| Course level | Post-study work visa duration |
| Level 9 (Masters) & 10 (PhD) |
3 years
|
| Level 8 (post-graduate diploma) | 1 year |
| Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree | 3 years |
| Non-degree level 7 | As per duration of studies only if the qualification is related to an occupation on the Green List, or Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa List. |
Pathway to Residency
During your post-study work visa you may qualify for a New Zealand resident visa under the Skilled Migrant Category or the Green List category. If your work is in an occupation that has skill shortages, this improves your chances of being allowed to stay, either with work visas or residence.
Are you ready to begin your journey?
Fill out our contact form and, if we think we can help, we will be in touch shortly to discuss your options.