Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand
See if you qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa and learn how it can help
you stay and work in New Zealand after graduation.
A Post-Study Work Visa allows international graduates to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification. It can be your first step towards gaining valuable work experience and even moving towards residence. Improve your CV, connect with employers, and plan your NZ job hunt effectively.
Who Can Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa in NZ?
A Post-Study Work Visa gives you up to 3 years to get a job in a field related to your studies.
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.
The duration of your post-study visa depends on the course you are studying in New Zealand.
| Course level | Minimum study duration | Post-study work visa duration |
| Level 9 (Masters) & 10 (PhD) |
30 weeks (you may still be eligible for a post-study work visa if you study a Master’s Degree for less than 30 weeks, but following a post-graduate diploma) |
3 years No restrictions on work |
| Level 8 (post-graduate diploma) | 30 weeks |
As per duration of studies Only eligible if studying a an Approved qualification or towards an occupation on the Green List. No restrictions on work |
| Level 7 (degree) | 30 weeks |
As per duration of studies Only eligible if studying a an Approved qualification or towards an occupation on the Green List. No restrictions on work |
| Non-degree level 7 | 30 weeks |
As per duration of studies Only eligible if studying a an Approved qualification or towards an occupation on the Green List. Can only work in occupation relevant to studies |
| Level 4 to 6 | As per duration of the course |
As per duration of studies Only eligible if studying a an Approved qualification or towards an occupation on the Green List. Can only work in occupation relevant to studies |
.brxe-mrcdab{
background-color: #F1F5F9;
}
How Long is a Post-Study Work
Visa Valid?
The length of your visa depends on your qualification:
Bachelor’s Degree (Level 7): 1–2 years
- Level 7: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Master’s or PhD: Up to 3 years
- Level 7: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Diplomas and lower levels typically do not qualify
Pathways from Post-Study Work
to Residence
After gaining New Zealand work experience on a Post-Study Work Visa, you may qualify for:
Gain New Zealand work experience
Transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Explore Green List residence pathways
Apply under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
This visa can be your bridge from study to long-term residence in New Zealand.
From Study to Work to Residence
.splide__track {
overflow: initial !important;
}Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work full-time on a Post-Study Work Visa?
Yes. With a Post-Study Work Visa, you are allowed to work full-time without restrictions. This visa is designed to give graduates the opportunity to gain professional experience after their studies. Note that depending on your NZ studies, you may either have unlimited work rights, or you may have to work in the occupation you studied towards.
Does this visa lead to residence automatically?
No, you still need to obtain a job offer and apply for residency under a category that applies to you.
Do I need a job offer before applying?
No, you just need evidence of completing your qualification, as well as maintenance funds.
What if I change jobs while on this visa?
The visa does not require employer support, so you may change jobs.
Ready to Plan Your
Post-Study Future?
