Who may need a New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa?
The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa is tailored for those wishing to obtain hands-on experience after successfully completing an approved course of study. Its length varies depending on the course grade and length, and it may be a viable path for residence for many.
An old saying, originating from an ancient proverb and in its famous form ascribed to the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu (Laozi), goes,
‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’.
This New Zealand visa may be rightfully regarded as your first step towards New Zealand residency. Although it grants its holder only the right to work, rather than stay in the country indefinitely, it nevertheless offers a unique opportunity to have a taste of New Zealand second-to-none lifestyle and workplace culture. Besides, before applying you will have acquainted yourself with New Zealand education system, have obtained a recognised qualification and will likely already have a clear understanding of your future career and your long-term goals.
| Who can get this visa? | The Post-Study Work Visa may be granted to graduate students after they successfully complete a qualification over a designated period of study. The school you studied at must offer a course leading to what will be considered an acceptable qualification by New Zealand Qualifications Authority. The length of study varies between at least 30 weeks and up to 3-4 years of full-time research on a PhD course. |
| How long is a New Zealand Post-Study Visa valid for? | The duration ranges between 1 and 3 years and usually correlates with the ranking of the course in the NZQA framework and the length of the course – the higher the position and the longer it was studied, the more time you will have on your visa. |
| How much time do I have to apply after my study is finished? | – You have up to 3 months to apply once your course is successfully completed; – You have up to 6 months if the obtained qualification was a Doctoral Degree. |
| Do I need to have a job offer for this visa? | The good news is, no job offer is required as this visa is an open one. |
| What about partners and children? Can they accompany me, can they work and study? | Generally, yes. Your partners may be able to work; your children may have access to primary and secondary schools on a par with New Zealand domestic students. |
Here is a brief look at the qualifications and duration of the programmes that may lead you to a New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa. To rest assured you have made the right decision, we recommend turning to our immigration consultant for free advice and booking your 30-minute no-charge consultation today.
A Post-Study work visa may be granted for:
| Qualification completed and programme duration | A Post-Study Work Visa may be granted for: |
|---|---|
| i. a level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or level 8 to 10 qualification that has been studied full-time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand | Three years |
| ii. a level 7 Graduate Diploma that has been studied full-time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand | One year. Plus an additional one year, if the applicant is in the process of gaining registration with a registration authority and meets the requirements of WD3.1.15 Two years, if the study was undertaken outside of Auckland and completed by 31 December 2021 |
| iii. any other level 7 qualification that has been studied full-time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand | One year Two years, if the study was undertaken outside of Auckland and completed by 31 December 2021 |
| iv. a single qualification at level 4 to 6 that has been studied full-time for at least 60 weeks in New Zealand | One year Two years, if the study was undertaken outside of Auckland and completed by 31 December 2021 |
| v. two qualifications at levels 4 to 6 that have been studied full-time for at least 60 weeks in New Zealand (including at least 30 weeks per qualification) and the second qualification is at a higher level on the NZQF than the first qualification. The qualifications must have commenced in either the same or consecutive calendar years | One year Two years, if the study was undertaken outside of Auckland and completed by 31 December 2021 |