A post-study work visa is a document the New Zealand government provides to permit international students to work after graduation. The visa is designed to enable students to gain work experience related to their field of study after studying in New Zealand, and it allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to three years if you have recently completed your studies.
The New Zealand post-study work visa gives you the ability to:
- Stay up to three years after graduating
- Be employed in almost any role in NZ
- Bring your partner or dependent children to the country
- Allow your partner to apply for a work visa
- Allow you to travel to and from NZ
Learn more about the New Zealand post-study work visa below. If you want to study in New Zealand, contact SI-New Zealand for a free consultation today.
Five Benefits of the Post-Study Work Visa
1. Work experience
You can gain valuable work experience in New Zealand, which can significantly boost your career prospects. The experience also adds credibility to your resume, making you more competitive in the job market.
2. Employment opportunities
New Zealand has a robust job market with opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, engineering, IT, and more. Holding a post-study work visa allows you to explore these industries and potentially secure a job aligned with your field of study.
3. A door to permanent residence
The visa can lead to further opportunities for residence in New Zealand. For those considering permanent residency, the work experience gained through this visa can be advantageous when applying for Skilled Migrant Category visas or other residency options.
4. Cultural experience
Besides work, staying in New Zealand allows you to experience its rich culture, diverse communities, and outdoor lifestyle. From beautiful landscapes to vibrant cities, New Zealand offers a unique environment for both personal and professional growth.
Overview of the Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand
Types of Post-Study Work Visas
The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa is available in three categories, depending on your qualification level and career plans.
One-Year Visa: For graduates who have completed Level 4-6 qualifications or a non-degree Level 7 qualification. This visa provides one year to gain relevant work experience.
Two-Year Visa: If you need to gain occupational registration, you can apply for a two-year Post-Study Work Visa, which provides time to meet registration requirements and begin working in your field.
Three-Year Visa: Graduates holding a Level 7 bachelor’s degree or higher are eligible for a three-year Post-Study Work Visa. This longer duration provides ample time to secure employment and gain substantial work experience.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa, you must meet specific requirements. Here are the primary eligibility criteria:
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Completion of a Recognised Qualification: You must have completed a qualification that is at least Level 4 on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Generally, this includes diplomas, bachelor's degrees, graduate diplomas, and higher qualifications.
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Study Duration: You need to have studied in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks if you completed a Level 4-6 qualification. For Levels 7 and above, the required study duration is a minimum of 30 weeks within a 12-month period.
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Accredited Institution: You must have graduated from a recognised New Zealand educational institution that is accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
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Timing of Application: You need to apply for the Post-Study Work Visa within three months of completing your course. For PhD graduates, this application window extends to six months.
Post-Study Work Visa Application Process
The application process for a Post-Study Work Visa is straightforward, but you’ll need to prepare your documentation and ensure you meet all requirements:
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Create a RealMe Account: You can begin your application online through Immigration New Zealand’s website. A RealMe account will allow you to submit the application electronically and monitor your progress.
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Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with accurate details about your education, qualifications, and future work plans in New Zealand.
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Provide Supporting Documents: You will need to submit evidence of your qualifications, proof of identity, and documentation verifying your health and character status.
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Pay the Application Fee: The application fee for the Post-Study Work Visa is currently NZD $700. Fees are subject to change, so check the latest information on the Immigration New Zealand website.
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Submit Biometrics (if required): Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometric information such as fingerprints and a photo.
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Wait for Processing: The processing time varies but typically takes around 35 days. If approved, you will receive a visa label in your passport or a digital eVisa.
Required Documents
You must prepare the following documents to apply for the post-study work visa.
- A completed INZ 1015 work visa application form
- Payment receipt of the application fees
- Receiving centre fees (varies across countries)
- A valid passport
- Education transcripts
- English certificate
- A medical certificate or chest X-ray shows you are healthy.
- Police certificate/character certificate
- Cover letter
- Proof of funds
Post-Study Work Visa Fee
The post-study work visa fee is NZ$1,670.
New Zealand Study Levels and Qualifications
The duration of post-study work in New Zealand depends on your course level.
| Name of qualification | Levels |
|---|---|
| Certificate | Levels 1-4 |
| Diploma | Levels 5-6 |
| Bachelor's Degree | Level 7 |
| Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma | Level 7 |
| Bachelor Honours Degree | Level 8 |
| Postgraduate Certificate/Postgraduate Diploma | Level 8 |
| Master's Degree | Level 9 |
| Doctoral Degree | Level 10 |
Level 4 (Certificate Programs)
New Zealand offers a certificate program that qualifies you with theoretical and technical concepts, knowledge, and skills within a specific field of work or study. Students can opt for certificate programs in various areas, such as health and wellness, IT, computing, tourism and travel. It is considered a gateway to a bachelor’s degree.
- Average duration: 1 year
- Average fees: $10,633
- Typical entry requirements: A minimum of 40 credits at Level 4 or up contributing to the qualification.
Level 5 & 6 (Diploma Programs)
Diploma programs build your technical and theoretical skills within a specified field of work or study. Students can choose diploma courses in areas such as economics, engineering, architecture, design, and social work.
- Average duration: 1 year
- Average fees: $15,000
- Typical entry requirements: 60% or above in academics with at least 120 credits contributing to the qualification.
Level 7 (Bachelor’s Degree, Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma)
Level 7 is classified into degree, graduate diploma, and graduate degree programs, offering a systematic and coherent approach to a recognised subject. The subjects are taught to build a practical knowledge base.
A graduate diploma allows holders to pursue further studies at an advanced undergraduate level. The course is designed as a bridging qualification to postgraduate study for those developing educational, professional, or vocational knowledge of a new discipline, profession, or subject. The Level 7 courses allow you to apply for postgraduate studies.
- Average duration: 4 years
- Average fees: $22,000
- Typical entry requirements: Excellent academic records with proof of English language proficiency.
Level 8 (Bachelor’s Honours Degree and Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma)
Level 8 programs in New Zealand are designed to extend and deepen the knowledge and skills in a specific subject or relevant area of study. The postgraduate diploma allows students to do independent research and receive scholarships.
- Average duration: two years
- Average fees: $34,000
- Typical entry requirements: A bachelor’s degree with relevant work experience.
Level 9 (Master’s Degree)
A master’s degree qualifies individuals to apply advanced knowledge in various contexts. It is a pathway for further learning and professional development. A master’s program can be structured in three ways: by thesis, coursework and thesis, and coursework.
- Average duration: 2 years
- Average fees: $50,000
- Typical entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree and qualifying standardised tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Level 10 (Doctoral Degree)
The highest level of education or advanced degree symbolizes that you have mastered a specific study area. A doctoral degree requires a significant level of research and articulation. The following types of doctoral degrees in New Zealand are: Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD/DPhil), Doctorate in the specified discipline (EdD or DMus), and Higher Doctorate (DSc or DLitt).
- Average duration: 3 to 4 years
- Average fees: $19,000
- Typical entry requirements: Master’s degree with a maximum age limit of 40 years.
Apply for a Post Study Work Visa
The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa is a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain work experience, explore career opportunities, and enjoy a rewarding lifestyle in a beautiful country. By understanding the requirements and application process, you can make the most of this visa and potentially open doors to long-term residency and a promising future in New Zealand.
For those considering studying in New Zealand, the Post-Study Work Visa adds an attractive element to your post-graduation plans, offering both professional and personal enrichment in one of the world's most stunning countries. Arrange a free consultation to get expert advice and application support from our team.
FAQs
Where can I apply for a post-study work visa in New Zealand?
International students can apply for work visas after studying in New Zealand. They can either apply online or on paper by visiting the official website (NZ Immigration) and creating a “Real Me” account, which is NZ internal affairs site.
Are there any work restrictions on post-study work visas?
There are no work restrictions on the type of work that PSW Visa Holders must undertake, as it is a temporary visa facility that allows international students to live, study, and work once they have finished their studies.
How long does receiving a post-study work visa take?
Once you have registered for the post-work visa, NZ Immigration takes around 31 weeks to process your application.
What should you do after the post-study work visa expires?
You can extend your post-study work visa in New Zealand. However, you need to meet certain terms and conditions. For example- one must have a higher academic qualification than the one you have submitted before.
