Post Study Work

The Post-Study Work Visa lets international graduates stay and work in New Zealand after finishing their studies. If you've completed a degree-level qualification at level 7 or higher and studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks, you can work for any employer. Eligible Master's degrees can lead to a 3-year visa, and Postgraduate Diplomas to a 1-year visa.

If you've completed a non-degree qualification at level 7 or below, it must be on INZ's list of eligible qualifications, and you'll need to work in a job related to your study. You must apply no later than 3 months after your student visa expires (6 months for a Doctoral degree, and up to 12 months in some cases), and show you have enough money to support yourself, at the level INZ sets.

Immigration New Zealand sets its application fees, levies and processing times and updates them regularly, so we don't quote them here. Check the current cost and decision time for your situation with INZ's Fees, decision times and where to apply tool, and see the full requirements on INZ's Post-Study Work Visa page.

From 16 November 2026, eligibility extends to level 7 graduate diploma holders who also hold a bachelor's degree, and paper applications will no longer be accepted. You can only hold this visa once, so timing matters. Concord helps you check eligibility and plan your move to an AEWV or residence. New Zealand matters are handled by Sejoo Han, Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA licence 202400274).