Post Study Work Visa
🇳🇿 New Zealand visas · Work
What it is
For international students who have recently completed an approved New Zealand qualification and want to stay to work. Duration varies by qualification level. Can sponsor partners and dependent children.
Key facts
- Category
- Work
- Duration
- Up to 3 years (varies by qualification level and study duration)
- Processing time
- Up to 3 weeks
- Maximum validity
- 3 years
- Extendable
- No
- Path to permanent residence
- Indirect route
- Dependants
- Yes
- How to apply
- Online
- Health insurance
- Not required
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee
- NZD 1,670
- Proof of funds
- NZD 5,000
Key requirements
- Recently completed an approved New Zealand qualification
- Apply within 3 months of student visa expiry (6 months for doctoral; 12 months in specific cases)
- Minimum NZD $5,000 available for living expenses
- Degree-level 7+ qualification studied full-time for 30+ weeks, or eligible non-degree qualification with related employment
- Meet health and character requirements
- Genuine intentions for staying in New Zealand
Working on this visa
Open work if you hold a degree level 7 or higher; employer/job-restricted if you hold a non-degree level 7 or lower qualification
Bringing family
Partner and dependent children can apply.
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 26 July 2026.