The Post-Study Work Visa allows international students who have completed eligible qualifications in New Zealand to stay and work after graduation. This visa provides an excellent pathway from study to skilled employment and potentially to residence.
Understanding your options before and immediately after graduation can maximize your opportunities in New Zealand.
What is a Post-Study Work Visa?
The Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) is a temporary work visa available to international students who have:
- Completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand
- Studied at a New Zealand education provider
- Met all requirements for their student visa
The visa allows graduates to work for any employer, in any job, anywhere in New Zealand.
Visa Duration
The length of your post-study work visa depends on your qualification level and where you studied:
Standard Durations
| Qualification Level | Study Duration | PSWV Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Level 7 Bachelor's degree | 3 years | Up to 3 years |
| Level 8 Postgraduate diploma | 1 year | Up to 3 years |
| Level 9 Master's degree | 1-2 years | Up to 3 years |
| Level 10 Doctoral degree | 3+ years | Up to 3 years |
| Level 4-6 qualifications | Variable | 1-3 years |
| Level 7 Graduate diploma | 1 year | 1-3 years |
Regional Study Bonus
If you studied outside Auckland, Canterbury, or Wellington:
- Some qualifications may receive longer visa duration
- Check specific regional bonuses available
Eligibility Requirements
Qualification Requirements
You must have:
- Completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand
- Qualification from a listed education provider
- Met minimum study duration (usually at least 30 weeks)
- Qualification approved for PSWV purposes
Study Requirements
During your study, you must have:
- Held a valid student visa
- Completed the qualification your visa was granted for
- Met attendance and course completion requirements
Application Timing
You must apply:
- Within 3 months of your official completion date
- Before your current student visa expires
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before applying, verify:
- Your qualification is eligible
- Your study meets duration requirements
- You're within application timeframe
Step 2: Gather Documents
Collect:
- Passport (valid)
- Completion letter from institution
- Qualification certificate (if available)
- Academic transcript
- Current student visa evidence
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit application through Immigration Online:
- Create or log into your account
- Complete PSWV application form
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay application fee
Step 4: Await Processing
Processing typically takes:
- 4-8 weeks
- Faster if application is complete
- May request additional information
What You Can Do on This Visa
Work Rights
The Post-Study Work Visa provides:
- Open work rights: Work for any employer
- Any role: Not restricted by occupation
- Full-time hours: No hour restrictions
- Anywhere in NZ: No regional restrictions
Building Toward Residence
Use this time to:
- Gain skilled employment
- Build work experience in New Zealand
- Meet requirements for residence pathways (SMC, etc.)
- Develop employer relationships
Partner and Family
If you hold a PSWV:
- Partners may apply for partner work visa (open)
- Children may access domestic education rates
- Family can remain in New Zealand with you
Pathways from Post-Study Work
Route 1: AEWV and SMC
The most common pathway:
- Use PSWV to find skilled employment
- Apply for AEWV with accredited employer (if needed for longer stay)
- Apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence
Route 2: Direct to Residence
If your job is on the Green List:
- Obtain skilled employment in Green List occupation
- Apply directly for residence (straight-to-residence occupations)
- Or work 2 years then apply (work-to-residence occupations)
Route 3: Partnership
If you have a New Zealand partner:
- Partner sponsorship
- Partnership-based residence application
Maximizing Your Post-Study Work Visa
Find Skilled Employment
Focus on:
- Jobs matching your qualification field
- Roles meeting ANZSCO skill level requirements
- Positions with accredited employers
- Occupations supporting residence pathways
Target Growing Industries
Consider sectors with strong demand:
- Healthcare
- Technology/IT
- Engineering
- Construction
- Education
Regional Opportunities
Remember regional advantages:
- Skilled employment outside Auckland (strengthens SMC application — note: the old +30 regional bonus was removed in the 2023 SMC restructure)
- Sometimes easier to find opportunities
- Building toward long-term settlement
Build Your Network
During your visa:
- Join professional associations
- Attend industry events
- Connect with graduates in your field
- Develop mentor relationships
Common Mistakes
1. Waiting Too Long to Apply
The 3-month application window is strict. Apply early, not at the last minute.
2. Not Seeking Skilled Work
Working in any job is allowed, but skilled employment builds toward residence. Balance income needs with career development.
3. Ignoring Visa Expiry
Track your visa expiry carefully. Plan next steps well in advance.
4. Missing Regional Opportunities
Auckland isn't the only option. Regional New Zealand offers genuine opportunities and immigration advantages.
Transitioning to Other Visas
Before PSWV Expires
Plan your next steps:
- If staying in New Zealand: AEWV or residence application
- If occupation is on Green List: Direct residence pathway
- If partnership applies: Partner residence
If Unable to Find Skilled Work
Options may include:
- Upskilling (additional qualifications)
- Broadening job search
- Considering regional opportunities
- Seeking immigration advice
Costs
| Item | Fee (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Post-Study Work Visa application | $700 |
| Partner work visa (if applicable) | $740 |
Plus any medical or police certificate costs if required.
Tips for Success
- Plan early: Start job searching before graduation
- Tailor CV for NZ: Use New Zealand resume format
- Register with recruitment agencies: They often have graduate roles
- Use career services: Your institution's career center can help
- Consider internships: Some grow into permanent roles
- Stay connected: Join alumni networks for job opportunities
Just graduated and need visa help? Find a licensed immigration adviser who specializes in post-study work options and can guide your pathway to residence.