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POST-STUDY WORK RIGHT

Unlocking Global Work Experience

New Zealand's Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) is an open work permit that allows international graduates to live and work in the country after completing their qualification.

This visa provides a golden opportunity to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and qualify for points-based skilled migration pathways such as the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC).

3 Years

Maximum Duration

Any Employer

Flexible Employment

Any Job

Open Work Conditions

SMC PR

Direct Pathways

Key PSWV Highlights

Open work conditions — work for any employer in New Zealand.
Flexible hours — no restriction on the number of hours you can work.
Accompanying Partner — partners can apply for open work visas under eligible qualification criteria.
Trans-Tasman pathways — gain skills recognized across Australasia.
Direct PR mapping — your NZ work experience counts toward point requirements.

ELIGIBILITY & DURATIONS

Visa Duration by Qualification Level

How long you can stay and work in New Zealand depends on the level and duration of your study.

Qualification Level / Type	Study Duration	Post-Study Work Visa Duration
Sub-degree Qualifications (Level 7 Diploma or below)	2–3 years	1 Year (Must be on Green List or qualifications list)
Bachelor's Degree (Level 7 Degree)	3+ years	2 Years
Postgraduate Diploma (Level 8)	1 year (completing 2+ years prior study)	2 Years
Master's Degree (Level 9) or PhD (Level 10)	1–3 years	3 Years

PROCESS CHECKLIST

How to Apply for Your PSWV

A step-by-step pathway from your university graduation to beginning full-time employment.

Step 1Graduate from Your Course

Successfully complete your eligible qualification from a recognized New Zealand education provider.

Step 2Gather Required Evidence

Obtain your final transcript, completion certificate, valid passport, and evidence of funds for return travel.

Step 3Apply Online via INZ Portal

Create and submit your application online through the Immigration New Zealand portal (immigrationonline.govt.nz).

Step 4Pay the Application Fee

Complete payment for the required visa fee and international visitor conservation and tourism levy (IVL).

Step 5Receive Your eVisa

Once processed and approved by Immigration New Zealand, you will receive an official digital eVisa.

Step 6Begin Your Employment

Start working for any employer in New Zealand under your new open work conditions.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common queries about New Zealand's Post-Study Work Visa.

Yes. If you are completing a Level 7 Bachelor's degree or above, or if your program is on the Green List, your partner can apply for a Partner of a Student/Graduate Work Visa, which gives them open work rights in New Zealand.

The Skilled Migrant Category uses a points-based system. Having a New Zealand qualification plus skilled employment in New Zealand grants substantial points. Successfully working on your PSWV in a skilled job enables you to meet the threshold required to obtain Permanent Residency.

Fields list on the New Zealand Green List generally see the highest employment rates. This includes Engineering, Information Technology (Software Development, Cybersecurity), Healthcare (nursing, medicine), Construction Project Management, and Secondary Education.

Begin Your NZ Career Journey

Let our expert consultants plan your educational pathway to ensure maximum post-study work rights and a clear PR strategy.

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New Zealand Post Study Work Visa