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Indian applicants · New Zealand

Post-Study Work Visa for Indian citizens

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Open work visa for international graduates of eligible New Zealand qualifications — 1 to 3 years depending on qualification level and location.

No sponsorship requiredDoes not lead to permanent residency1–3 years depending on qualification level and study location.

This page covers the Post-Study Work Visa specifically for Indian applicants — including document requirements, consular procedures, and common issues specific to India. The route's general criteria are summarised below, but the current corridor-specific filing, visa-issuance, and entry position above can still determine whether the route is usable.

Processing time
Typically 3–6 weeks.
Government fees
NZD 700 (verify on INZ).
Typical duration
1–3 years depending on qualification level and study location.
Sponsorship required
No
Leads to permanent residency
No
Reviewed Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ↗

Bilateral context

  • Commonwealth

Consular processing: Mumbai / New Delhi (VFS)

Tourist entry vs. this route

Indian nationals require a visa for any entry into New Zealand. The Post-Study Work Visa is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.

Visa overview

The Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) grants graduates of eligible NZ qualifications the right to work for any employer for 1–3 years, depending on the qualification level and study location. Level 7+ qualifications (bachelor's and above) from NZ universities typically grant 3 years. The PSWV does not require a job offer — it is an open work visa. Holders commonly use it to secure skilled employment and then transition to AEWV or SMC residence.

Eligibility

Typical criteria

Common blockers

Typical evidence

Application pathway

  1. Complete your NZ qualification

    Finish the eligible programme and receive your final results.

  2. Apply within 3 months

    Submit the PSWV application online within 3 months of results being available.

  3. Work for any employer

    The PSWV is an open work visa — work at any skill level for any employer while you find skilled employment.

  4. Transition to AEWV or SMC

    Secure a skilled role and transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa or apply directly for SMC residence.

Plan the practical side of your stay

Once you have checked the official route, you can prepare for day-to-day life in New Zealand. These optional services are separate from the application and do not establish visa eligibility.

Official application links

Where to actually go next

Government links only

These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.

  1. ApplyApplicant
    Apply for a Post Study Work Visa ↗

    Recent graduate submits the online work visa application within the permitted post-study window.

    Immigration New Zealand (INZ) · verified

Recent policy changes affecting this route

What changed most recently on this route — each linked to its primary government source.

  • 29 May 2026In force 16 November 2026

    New Zealand announces a Short-Term Graduate Work Visa and expanded post-study eligibility

    Immigration New Zealand announced a new six-month Short-Term Graduate Work Visa and expanded Post-Study Work Visa eligibility for qualifying Level 7 graduate diplomas, with applications for the new visa planned from 16 November 2026.

    Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

Other New Zealand routes covered for Indian applicants

Not sure New Zealand is right for you? Compare similar routes

Other countries offer work unsponsored routes that Indian nationals also apply to. See how they compare.

Frequently asked questions

Are Indian citizens eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa?+

Eligibility for the Post-Study Work Visa is set by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). Indian applicants must meet the general route criteria plus any nationality- or location-specific intake requirements described in the current corridor guidance above.

Where do Indian applicants typically file the Post-Study Work Visa?+

Mumbai / New Delhi (VFS). Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.

Do Indian applicants need a tourist visa for New Zealand as well?+

Indian nationals require a visa for any entry into New Zealand. The Post-Study Work Visa is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.

How long is the Post-Study Work Visa?+

Duration depends on your qualification level and where you studied. Level 7+ qualifications (bachelor's degree and above) at NZ universities typically qualify for 3 years. Level 4–6 qualifications may grant 1–2 years. Qualifications studied outside Auckland may qualify for additional time. Check the current INZ policy for exact durations.

Does the Post-Study Work Visa lead to residence?+

Not directly. The PSWV gives you time to find skilled employment in New Zealand. Once employed in a skilled role (ideally on the Green List or at/above the median wage), you can transition to SMC residence via the standard points-based pathway.

How we verified this

We check every figure on this page against the primary government source, record the date it was last checked, and re-check it on a regular schedule. Rules change, so always confirm time-sensitive details with the official source before you rely on them. Visa Atlas is an information-only publication and does not give legal advice.

Primary source: Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

Last checked: 8 July 2026

See the full evidence trail and methodology

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