Policy verified from immigration.govt.nz as of 2026-04-13
The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa allows international graduates who completed a qualifying course (Level 7 or above, minimum 30 weeks of study) to work in New Zealand. Duration is up to 3 years for Master's or Doctoral qualifications (Level 9+), or equal to the study period for Level 7-8 qualifications. It is an open work visa with no employer or occupation restrictions.
Source: immigration.govt.nz — 2026-04-13
What Is the Post-Study Work Visa?
The Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) gives international graduates the right to work in New Zealand after completing a qualifying course. It is an open work visa — you can work for any employer, in any occupation, with no restrictions.
Duration
- Up to 3 years for Master's or Doctoral qualifications (Level 9+)
- Equal to your study period for Level 7-8 qualifications (as confirmed by your education provider)
- Requires a minimum of 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand
Eligibility Requirements
- Completed an approved qualification at Level 7 or above on the NZQF
- Full-time study enrolment during the programme
- Study completed at a recognised New Zealand education institution
- Apply within 6 months of completing your course
- Meet health and character requirements
- Valid passport throughout the visa duration
Key Features
- Open work visa — no employer or occupation restrictions
- Work for any employer in New Zealand
- Gain work experience that strengthens a future residence application
- Pathway to the Skilled Migrant Category or Work to Residence
Application Timeline
You must apply within 6 months of completing your course. Do not delay — late applications risk being declined. Processing follows standard Immigration New Zealand procedures.
How ProVisas Helps
- We confirm your qualification meets the Level 7+ threshold before you apply
- We prepare your application within the deadline window to avoid late filing
- We advise on residence pathways you can pursue during your post-study work period
- We assist with partner work visa applications if applicable
The post-study work visa is often the bridge between study and permanent residence in New Zealand. Getting your application right — and planning your next visa step early — makes a real difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Duration depends on your qualification level. For a Master's or Doctoral degree (Level 9+), you get up to 3 years. For Level 7-8 qualifications, the visa duration equals the time you spent studying, as confirmed by your education provider.
You must apply within 6 months of completing your course. Do not wait too long — late applications may not be accepted.
Yes. The post-study work visa is an open work visa with no employer restrictions and no occupation restrictions. You can work for any employer in any role.
Yes. Many graduates use the post-study work visa period to gain skilled employment that supports a subsequent residence application, such as through the Skilled Migrant Category or an employer-supported pathway.
You need to have completed a qualification at Level 7 or above on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF), with at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand. Note that visa duration varies by level — 3 years for Level 9+, or equal to your study period for Level 7-8.
Partner work visa eligibility depends on your qualification level and visa conditions. ProVisas can assess whether your partner qualifies for a supported work visa based on your post-study work visa.
