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Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand: Eligibility, Fees, Process

Updated on 12 September, 2024

Harjeet

Harjeet

Visa expert

Studying and subsequently working in New Zealand is certainly an appealing idea for aspiring international students. The unstructured, independent working style of companies in New Zealand, also known as the ‘Kiwi-style,’ is very popular. Many international students who have finished their studies are eager to extend their stay in this beautiful country by obtaining a post-study work visa in New Zealand (PSWV). Let’s find out more about this visa!

Post-Study Work Visa Duration in New Zealand

New Zealand post-study work visa duration varies based on your qualification level. Here’s more on it:

For students who have completed their postgraduate studies

If you have completed your master's or PhD in New Zealand, you are eligible for acquiring the longest duration of Post-Study Work Visa, which is 3 years. 

For students who have completed a qualification at level 8 or below

If you only have qualifications till level 8 or below, your Post-Study Work Visa will be of the same duration as your time of study, i.e., if your offer of place says that your study will take 24 weeks, your PSWV will also be for 24 weeks. 

It is important to note that the PSWV is only given once to each student. 

Who Can Apply for Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand

International students who have completed a higher studies program in New Zealand and wish to stay and work there can apply for a New Zealand post-study work visa after their master’so or other accepted qualification. Applicants must meet the set eligibility criteria, including:

Successful Completion of Studies: 

You must have studied at a degree level 7 or higher or a non-degree level 7 or lower, and your qualification should be on the list of Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa.

It is to be noted that if you applied for your Student Visa on or before 11 May 2022, you may be eligible for a Post Study Work Visa, even if your qualification is not on the list of Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa. However, it must still be an acceptable qualification.

Offer of Employment: 

In most cases, applicants must have a valid job offer related to their field of study. The job offer should align with the qualifications obtained in New Zealand.

Health and Character Requirements: 

Applicants must meet health and character requirements to ensure they do not pose any risk to public health or safety.

Valid Student Visa: 

Applicants should have held a valid New Zealand student visa while completing their studies.

English Language Proficiency: 

Some visa categories may require proof of English proficiency.

Qualifications to Apply for New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa

You must have completed a recognized qualification to be eligible for a post-study work visa in New Zealand. The eligibility criteria can differ depending on the type of qualification and its level. Here are the primary qualification categories for a New Zealand work permit after study:

Qualification

Knowledge Requirements (Focus Area)

Related jobs

A Graduate Diploma  Level 7

Highway engineering or civil engineering

Construction Project Manager

A Graduate Diploma  Level 7

Construction

Project Builder

A Graduate Diploma in Construction Level 7

Quantity Surveying

Quantity Surveyor

A Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying Level 7

N/A

Quantity Surveyor

A Diploma Level 6 or higher with a minimum of 240 credits

Highway engineering, construction, or construction management

Construction Project Manager or Project Builder

A Diploma Level 6 or higher with a minimum of 240 credits

Civil engineering

Construction Project Manager or Civil Engineering Technician

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6 or higher) with a strand in Civil Engineering, 240 credits

N/A

Construction Project Manager or Civil Engineering Technician

New Zealand Diploma in Civil Engineering (Building and Construction) Level 7

N/A

Civil Engineering Technician

New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) Level 6 or higher

N/A

Quantity Surveyor or Project Builder

New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Level 6 or higher) with a strand in Quantity Surveying, 240 credits

N/A

Quantity Surveyor or Project Builder

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6 or higher) with a strand in Electrical Engineering, 240 credits

N/A

Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering Technician, or Telecommunications Network Engineer 

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6 or higher) with a strand in Electronics Engineering, 240 credits

N/A

Electronic Engineering Technician

New Zealand Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Level 7)

N/A

Electrical Engineering Technician

A diploma Level 5 or higher

Farm management, agriculture, or dairy technology

Dairy Cattle Farmer

A certificate Level 4 or higher

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (NZQF Level 4)

Automotive Electrician

A certificate Level 4 or higher

New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Automotive Engineering (NZQF Level 4)

Diesel Motor Mechanic

A certificate Level 4 or higher

Dairy Farming or Livestock Farming strands of the New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture (Level 4)

Dairy Cattle Farmer

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering

N/A

Automotive Electrician

New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Automotive Engineering

N/A

Diesel Motor Mechanic

New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture with a strand in Dairy Farming or Livestock Farming

N/A

Dairy Cattle Farmer

Source: Official New Zealand Immigration Website

It is essential to note that the specific eligibility criteria and visa durations may change over time.

How to Apply for Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand

Applying for a post-study work visa in New Zealand involves several steps. Here is a general outline of the application process:

Prepare Required Documents: 

Gather all the necessary documents, including your ID, health certificates, character certificate, letter of intent, academic qualifications, and funds.

Complete the Application Form: 

Fill out the relevant visa application form, which can be found on the Immigration New Zealand website. Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information.

Pay the Application Fee: 

Pay the required application fee online. The fee amount can vary depending on the type of visa and your location.

Wait for Processing: 

After submitting your application, it will be processed by Immigration New Zealand. 90% of applicants, if approved, receive their visa within 38 weekdays.

Receive the Visa Decision: 

Once your application is processed, you will receive a verdict on your visa application. If approved, you will receive a visa label in your passport or an electronic visa. 

Conclusion

It is essential to keep up with changes in laws and regulations by visiting the official New Zealand Immigration website or getting advice from knowledgeable immigration experts. You can make your dream of studying and working in New Zealand a reality by following the correct procedures and fulfilling the requirements.

More Articles on study in New Zealand:

FAQs

Does New Zealand give a post-study work visa?

Yes, a post-study work visa in New Zealand for international students who have completed a qualifying course of study in the country is available. The duration and eligibility criteria for these visas may vary based on the level of the qualification obtained.

Is PR available in New Zealand after the study?

Yes. The specific requirements for obtaining permanent residency may vary, so it is advisable to consult the New Zealand Immigration website or an immigration advisor for details.

Is there a 3-year work visa for New Zealand?

New Zealand offers three-year post-study work visas to graduates with bachelor's degrees or higher and those with postgraduate qualifications. However, immigration policies and visa durations can change, so it is essential to check the latest information on the official New Zealand Immigration website.

Did you find this article helpful?

Harjeet

Visa expert

With over 12 years of experience in the education sector, Harjeet specializes in study abroad counseling and visa management. She has a proven ability to guide students through university applications and visa processes, ensuring strict adherence to immigration laws. Her leadership background includes managing and mentoring teams, conducting training, and overseeing recruitment. As a Visa Manager, Harjeet excels in leading teams to efficiently process visas for multiple countries, driving operational excellence, and fostering strong partnerships with visa processing vendors.

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