The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa is one of the most important pathways for international graduates who want to stay in New Zealand after completing their studies. This open work permit allows you to work for any employer in any role for 1–3 years, building the work experience needed for permanent residency.
What Is the Post-Study Work Visa?
The Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) is an open work visa available to graduates of eligible New Zealand qualifications. Unlike employer-sponsored visas, the PSWV allows you to:
- Work for any employer in any role (open conditions)
- Change jobs freely during the visa period
- Build New Zealand work experience to support a permanent residency application
- Have a partner or dependent children join you on visitor visas
The PSWV replaced the former Immediate Post-Study Work Visa and is currently the primary post-study pathway in New Zealand.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa, you must:
1. Have completed a full-time qualification at NZQA Level 7 or above at an approved New Zealand provider
2. Apply within 3 months of receiving your final results
3. Have held a valid student visa when you completed your qualification
4. Meet health and character requirements
5. Intend to remain in New Zealand
Duration — How Long Do You Get?
The duration of your Post-Study Work Visa depends on your qualification level and where you studied:
| Qualification | Studied in Auckland | Studied Outside Auckland |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Level 7) | 1 year | 3 years |
| Bachelor's Honours / Grad Diploma (Level 8) | 1 year | 3 years |
| Master's (Level 9) | 3 years | 3 years |
| PhD (Level 10) | 3 years | 3 years |
Important: If you studied in Auckland, most undergraduate-level graduates receive only 1 year. Studying outside Auckland (Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton) generally grants 3 years and also gives extra Skilled Migrant Category points.
How to Apply
You can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa online through Immigration New Zealand.
Step-by-step process:
1. Wait for your final results — You cannot apply until you have received official confirmation of your completed qualification
2. Check your eligibility — Confirm your qualification is at Level 7 or above and your provider is approved
3. Gather documents:
- Completed qualification confirmation / academic transcript
- Passport (valid for at least 1 year beyond intended stay)
- Evidence of New Zealand student visa during study completion
- Health insurance (if not covered by employer)
4. Apply online at immigration.govt.nz
5. Pay the visa fee — NZD 700 (approximate; confirm current fee at time of application)
6. Wait for decision — Usually 2–4 weeks online
Post-Study Work Visa to Permanent Residency
The PSWV is the critical bridge between graduating and applying for permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC).
While on your PSWV:
1. Find skilled employment in your field
2. Accumulate NZ work experience points (up to +30 per year for skilled work)
3. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the SMC once you have enough points
4. If selected from the SMC pool, apply for permanent residency
Typical timeline for a graduate who studied outside Auckland:
- Complete 3-year degree → Apply for 3-year PSWV
- Work for 2 years in skilled role → Accumulate 50 (qualification) + 30 (age) + 20 (2 years NZ skilled work) = 100+ points toward SMC threshold
Adding shortage occupation or regional factors can reach the 160-point threshold needed for SMC selection.
Important Rules and Restrictions
- Cannot be extended. The PSWV is non-renewable. Once it expires, you need a different visa (Skilled Migrant, employer-sponsored, or another category).
- Apply within 3 months. If you miss this window after getting your results, you cannot apply for the PSWV.
- One PSWV per person. You can only ever hold one Post-Study Work Visa in your lifetime in New Zealand.
- Open conditions. You can change employers freely — this is one of the biggest advantages over employer-sponsored visas.
Tips for Maximising Your PSWV
1. Study outside Auckland if possible — you'll get 3 years instead of 1 year regardless of qualification level.
2. Target shortage occupations — Healthcare, IT, engineering, and aged care have active shortages. Check the Green List and Skilled Migrant Category before choosing your career path.
3. Apply for jobs before you graduate — New Zealand employers prefer candidates already in the country. Start networking 6 months before completion.
4. Get professional advice on SMC — The Skilled Migrant Category application is complex. A Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) in New Zealand can ensure your points are correctly counted and your EOI is well-prepared.
Consultancies That Help with NZ Study Planning
If you are still in the planning stage, the right consultancy can help you choose a qualification and location that maximises your PSWV duration and PR pathway. Compare New Zealand consultancies on ConsultancyCheck using verified student reviews.
Explore more
Find your perfect consultancy.
Matched to your country & study goals — free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend the New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa?
No. The Post-Study Work Visa cannot be extended. It is a one-time visa. Before it expires, you need to apply for another visa category such as the Skilled Migrant Category, an employer-sponsored work visa, or depart New Zealand.
What happens if I miss the 3-month deadline to apply for the PSWV?
If you do not apply within 3 months of receiving your final results, you will no longer be eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa. You would need to apply for a different work visa category, such as an employer-sponsored visa. Do not delay your application.
Can my family join me on the Post-Study Work Visa?
Your partner can apply for a visitor visa or, if you find skilled employment, a partner open work visa. Dependent children can apply for visitor visas. Your family members cannot work on visitor visas unless they independently qualify for a work visa.
Does the Post-Study Work Visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes, indirectly. The PSWV gives you time to gain New Zealand work experience, which earns you points in the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). Most graduates who work in a skilled role for 1-2 years while on their PSWV will accumulate enough points to be considered for SMC permanent residency.
Find a Verified Consultancy
Browse 800+ consultancies with real student reviews — sorted by rating and verification status.