A post-study work visa (PSW) is available to any international students who have graduated from New Zealand with a recognised degree. 

It is a visa that allows international students to work for any employer in New Zealand for periods ranging in duration. 

Your work visa may be extended for an additional two years if you successfully find employment related to your field of study. 

Beginning on July 31, 2022, immigration officers in New Zealand will start processing student and tourist visas, which, according to the government, "signals the full restart of foreign education."

This is earlier than the government's previously anticipated October timeframe. In addition, when their visas are approved in the upcoming weeks, 5,000 students will enter the nation through a border exception. Visa applications for this group are already being processed.

Update in Guidelines

• International students entering New Zealand should be ready for stricter post-study work rights regulations and increased financial resource requirements.
• New guidelines have been implemented regarding post-study work rights in New Zealand. Under the new guidelines, international students who have completed a bachelor's degree or higher qualification in New Zealand will be eligible for a three-year post-study work visa, regardless of their field of study.
• Students who have completed a Level 7 qualification (graduate diploma or certificate) in an area of absolute skills shortage will also be eligible for a three-year post-study work visa. Students who have completed a Level 7 qualification outside of a fundamental skills shortage will be eligible for a one-year post-study work visa.
• Students who have completed a Level 4-6 qualification in New Zealand will be eligible for a one-year post-study work visa if their capability is in an area of absolute skills shortage or a one-year post-study work visa if their qualification is outside of an area of fundamental skills shortage.

The changes are designed to attract and retain international students in New Zealand, particularly in areas with skill shortages. The changes will also help to address concerns about the exploitation of international students who may be working in low-skilled jobs after completing their studies.

Who can apply for a visa in New Zealand?

Anyone who is not a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand and wants to enter the country for a temporary stay or a more extended period may need to apply for a visa. 

The type of visa required will depend on the visit's purpose, the stay's length, and the applicant's nationality.

Some of the common types of visas that can be applied for in New Zealand include the following:

• Visitor visa: for tourists, people visiting friends or family, or attending short-term courses or conferences.
• Student visa: for people who want to study in New Zealand for over three months.
• Work visa: for people who have a job offer in New Zealand or are coming to the country to work for a limited period.
• Resident visa: for people who want to permanently live and work in New Zealand.
• Business visa: for people who want to invest or start a business in New Zealand.

The New Zealand government's immigration website provides detailed information on visa requirements, application procedures, and processing times. It is essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each type of visa before applying to ensure that all requirements are met.

How to apply for a post-study work visa in New Zealand?

To apply for a post-study work visa in New Zealand, you will need to follow these general steps:

• Check your eligibility: Make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the post-study work visa. You must have completed an eligible qualification from an approved New Zealand education provider.
• Gather your documents: You must provide various documents, such as your passport, evidence of your qualification, proof of your finances, and proof of your health and character.
• Complete the application form: You can apply for the post-study work visa online through the New Zealand immigration website. You must provide your personal details, information about your qualification, and details of your employment plans in New Zealand.
• Pay the application fee: There is a fee for applying for the post-study work visa, which can be paid online at the time of application.
• Submit your application: After completing the application form and paying the fee, you can submit your application online.
• Wait for a decision: The processing time for post-study work visas can vary depending on the workload of the immigration office. You can check the current processing times on the New Zealand immigration website.

It is important to note that the requirements and process for applying for a post-study work visa may change over time, so it is recommended to check the latest information on the New Zealand immigration website before using it.

Post-study Work Visa Duration in New Zealand

The duration of a post-study work visa in New Zealand depends on the level of qualification you have completed and the location of your study. The following rules apply:

• Bachelor's degree or higher qualification: You may be eligible for a three-year post-study work visa.
• Level 7 qualification: If your Level 7 qualification is in an absolute skills shortage, you may be eligible for a three-year post-study work visa. You may qualify for a one-year post-study work visa if your Level 7 qualification is outside an absolute skills shortage.
• Level 4-6 qualification: If your Level 4-6 qualification is in an absolute skills shortage, you may be eligible for a one-year post-study work visa. If your Level 4-6 qualification is not in an area of absolute skills shortage, you will not be eligible for a post-study work visa.

FAQs 

What is the policy for post-study work rights in New Zealand?

The policy allows international students who have completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand to apply for a post-study work visa, enabling them to work for some time after completing their studies.

When did the policy change?

The policy changed on November 26, 2018.

What are the eligibility criteria for a post-study work visa?

The eligibility criteria vary depending on the level of qualification you have completed and the study location. Generally, you must have completed an eligible qualification from an approved New Zealand education provider.

How long can I stay in New Zealand on a post-study work visa?

The length of the post-study work visa depends on the level of qualification you have completed and the study location. You may be eligible for a three-year post-study work visa if you have completed a bachelor's degree or higher qualification.

Can I bring my family with me on a post-study work visa?

You can bring your partner and dependent children to New Zealand on a post-study work visa.

Can I apply for permanent residency after my post-study work visa expires?

Yes, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in New Zealand after your post-study work visa expires, depending on various factors such as your occupation and level of qualification.

Can I work in any job on a post-study work visa?

You can work in any job on a post-study work visa, regardless of your field of study. However, if you wish to apply for a skilled migrant visa later on, you must have relevant work experience in a professional occupation.

Can I study again on a post-study work visa?

Yes, you can study again on a post-study work visa, but you must maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet the requirements of the New Zealand Education Act 1989.

How do I apply for a post-study work visa in New Zealand?

You can apply for a post-study work visa online through the New Zealand immigration website. You will need to provide various documents, such as your passport, evidence of your qualification, proof of your finances, and evidence of your health and character.