How long can I work in New Zealand after completing my studies?

New Zealand offers the Post-Study Work Visa for international graduates who completed an eligible qualification at a New Zealand institution. The length of the visa depends on your qualification level and where you studied.

Graduates with a qualification at Level 7 or above (bachelor's degree, postgraduate diploma, master's, or PhD) from a New Zealand university or institution can receive a Post-Study Work Visa of 1 to 3 years. Specifically: a qualification at Level 8–10 (honours, postgraduate diploma, master's, PhD) from any institution qualifies you for a 3-year work visa. A bachelor's degree (Level 7) qualifies for a 3-year work visa if studied outside Auckland, or 2 years if studied in Auckland. Lower-level qualifications (Levels 4–6) in high-demand fields may qualify for 1 year.

To be eligible, you must: have studied at a New Zealand institution, hold a relevant NZ qualification, have completed your studies within the past 3 years, and apply for the visa while still in New Zealand on your student visa (or within 3 months of your student visa expiring).

The Post-Study Work Visa is an open work visa — you can work for any employer in any role.

New Zealand's immigration system also offers pathways to residency for skilled workers. Time spent working on the Post-Study Work Visa can count toward residency applications under the Skilled Migrant Category.

A licensed immigration adviser (NZAMI-registered) can help you understand your options and plan the best route to long-term residency if that is your goal.