Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand 2025 – Duration, Eligibility & Application Guide. Studying in New Zealand is more than just an education, it’s an investment in your future. Beyond world-class learning, New Zealand offers international students post-study work opportunities, giving your career a strong start. If you want to extend your stay in New Zealand after graduation, this guide will help you understand the Post-Study Work Visa, including duration, eligibility, documents, fees, and the application process.
Latest Updates on Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand
New Zealand has introduced important changes for international students in 2025 and beyond:
- Work Rights for Short Programs: Students in one-semester or exchange programs at approved institutions now enjoy full in-study work entitlements.
- Online Applications: From 18 August 2025, all student and post-study visa applications are processed through Immigration Online, allowing faster and easier submissions.
- Indian Degree Holders Exempt from IQA: As of 23 June 2025, Indian qualifications no longer require the International Qualification Assessment (IQA), simplifying visa processes.
These updates make New Zealand an even more attractive destination for international students looking to study and work abroad.
Duration of the Post-Study Work Visa
The Post-Study Work Visa allows graduates to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years. This is one of the longest post-study stay options globally, giving you enough time to gain work experience and explore long-term career opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Post-Study Work Visa, you must meet certain requirements:
- Degree or Higher Qualification: Complete at least 30 weeks of full-time study at NZQF Level 7 or higher in New Zealand.
- Non-Degree Programs: For Level 4–7 qualifications, complete full-time study in New Zealand and have your qualification listed as eligible.
- Postgraduate Transition: If you completed a 30-week Postgraduate Diploma and moved to a Master’s, you can still apply based on the diploma within 12 months of your student visa expiry.
- Visa Date Consideration: Student visas granted on or before 11 May 2022 may still be eligible, even if the qualification isn’t currently listed.
- Other Requirements: You must meet health and character standards and show NZD 5,000 in personal funds.
Documents Required
Having the right documents ensures a smooth visa approval. Required documents include:
- Proof of Qualification Completion: Certificate or academic transcript with final grades.
- Valid Passport: Covering the entire duration of your stay.
- Passport-Size Photos: Following Immigration NZ specifications.
- Health Documents: Medical certificate and chest X-ray (if required).
- Police Clearance: From home country and any country where you stayed 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Financial Proof: Evidence of at least NZD 5,000 to support yourself.
Application Fees
- Visa Fee: Starts from NZD 1,670.
- Additional Costs: Biometrics, health assessments, or regional charges may apply.
Being financially prepared helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth application process.
Processing Time
Most applications (around 80%) are processed within three weeks. Complete and accurate documents help speed up the process.
How to Apply
Online Application (Recommended)
- Create or log in to a RealMe account on the Immigration NZ website.
- Select Post-Study Work Visa form.
- Fill in personal, study, and travel details.
- Upload all required documents.
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Submit the application and save your reference number.
- Track status via Immigration Online.
Paper Application
- Download the INZ 1015 Work Visa form.
- Fill it out clearly and attach certified documents.
- Arrange payment for the visa fee.
- Send the completed form and payment receipt to the specified address.
- Keep a copy of your application for records.
Tip: Online applications are faster and easier to track. Use paper applications only if online submission isn’t possible.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After getting your Post-Study Work Visa, you can gain full-time employment in your field. Options to transition to permanent residency include:
- Work to Residence & Green List: Work for 2 years in a Tier 2 Green List role to apply for residency.
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): Meet skilled employment and points criteria.
- Entrepreneur or Talent Routes: Special visas for business or high-level skills can lead to residency.
FAQs
1. Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes, partners may apply for a work visa and children for visitor/student visas.
2. Can I change employers?
Open visas allow employment with any employer. Employer-specific visas may require a condition variation.
3. Is there an age limit?
No age restrictions; eligibility is based on qualifications and visa criteria.
4. Can I study while on this visa?
Yes, but only part-time study is allowed.
5. Can I travel abroad?
Yes, multiple-entry rights are included.
