New Zealand · work unsponsored
Post-Study Work Visa
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Open work visa for international graduates of eligible New Zealand qualifications — 1 to 3 years depending on qualification level and location.
- 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
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.
Guidance by nationality
Specific information for applicants from these countries. Don’t see yours? The general eligibility criteria above apply to everyone.
Indian applicants
Indian graduates are the largest PSWV cohort. The 3-year duration for bachelor's and above provides a generous window to…
Chinese applicants
Chinese PSWV holders are concentrated in IT, accounting, and engineering. The 3-year window for degree-level graduates i…
Filipino applicants
Filipino PSWV holders concentrate in healthcare and IT. Nursing Council NZ registration (for nursing graduates) should b…
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Completed an eligible NZ qualification (Level 4–10 on the NZQF) at an approved institution.
- ✓Applied within 3 months of final academic results being available.
- ✓Met the minimum study duration for the qualification level.
Common blockers
- !Qualification not at an approved institution or not on the eligible list.
- !Applied more than 3 months after results were available.
Typical evidence
- ·Completion letter from the institution.
- ·Academic transcript.
- ·Passport.
Application pathway
Complete your NZ qualification
Finish the eligible programme and receive your final results.
Apply within 3 months
Submit the PSWV application online within 3 months of results being available.
Work for any employer
The PSWV is an open work visa — work at any skill level for any employer while you find skilled employment.
Transition to AEWV or SMC
Secure a skilled role and transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa or apply directly for SMC residence.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
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.
- ApplyApplicantApply 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
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Related routes
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Points-based residence visa for skilled workers — New Zealand's primary pathway to permanent residence for skilled migrants.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Employer-sponsored temporary work visa — New Zealand's main route for skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited employer.
Student Visa
Visa for international students studying full-time at approved New Zealand education providers.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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