The Post-Study Work Visa lets you stay and work in New Zealand for up to 3 years after finishing an eligible qualification here. With a degree at level 7 or higher, you can work for any employer; with an eligible non-degree qualification, you must work in a job related to your study. You can only have one.
The post-study work visa costs NZ$1,670, and INZ processes 80% of applications within 3 weeks. You need at least NZ$5,000 for living costs, and you must apply no later than 3 months after your student visa expires (longer in some cases).
Checked on immigration.govt.nz on 28 October 2026. From 16 November 2026, PSWV applications are online only.
Who qualifies
You must have recently finished studying in New Zealand, and have either:
- a degree at level 7 or higher (bachelor's, level 8 postgraduate diploma or honours, level 9 master's or level 10 doctorate) studied full time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand, or
- a non-degree qualification at level 7 or lower that's on INZ's list of qualifications eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, studied full time in New Zealand for the full duration, and you intend to work in a job related to it.
You must also be in good health and of good character, have genuine intentions, and have NZ$5,000 available.
Coming in late 2026: eligibility extends to people with a full-time NZQCF level 7 Graduate Diploma studied in New Zealand plus a bachelor's degree from New Zealand or overseas.
How long it lasts
| Qualification | PSWV length | Work rights |
|---|---|---|
| Master's or doctorate, 30+ weeks of study in NZ | 3 years | Any employer, any job |
| Bachelor's, honours or postgraduate diploma | Equal to the time you studied for it (up to 3 years) | Any employer, any job |
| Eligible non-degree qualification (level 7 or below) | Equal to the time you studied for it | A job related to your study, specified in your conditions |
Failing a course or taking longer than your offer of place says doesn't make the visa longer.
When to apply
- Most people: no later than 3 months after your student visa expires.
- Bachelor's followed straight away by honours or a postgraduate diploma on consecutive student visas: within 3 months of the end of the second student visa.
- Doctorate: within 6 months; you can apply after submitting your thesis.
- Eligible qualification followed by a higher one completed in under 30 weeks: you can apply on the first qualification within 12 months of the first student visa expiring.
If your student visa will expire before you apply, apply for the PSWV before it does: that's what gives you an interim visa. Note that an interim visa while a PSWV is processed has visitor conditions: you can't work until it's granted.
Where an adviser helps: a PSWV is once only. If you're unsure whether your qualification is on the list, whether you studied long enough, or which of two qualifications to apply on, get advice before you apply. Using it on the wrong qualification, or missing the deadline, can't be undone.
Documents
- your qualification, academic transcript, or a letter from your provider confirming completion
- evidence of NZ$5,000 for living costs
- passport and photo
- INZ may ask for medicals or police certificates.
Partners and children
Your partner can apply for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa, and your dependent children can study as domestic students. See partner work visas.
After the PSWV
The PSWV gives you New Zealand work experience that can lead to an AEWV or residence through the Green List or the Skilled Migrant Category. Plan your next visa well before the PSWV ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the post-study work visa cost?
NZ$1,670.
How long after my studies can I apply?
No later than 3 months after your student visa expires in most cases, 6 months for a doctorate, and 12 months in the specific case of a short higher qualification following an eligible one.
Can I get a second Post-Study Work Visa?
No. You can only have one.
Does my diploma qualify for a PSWV?
Only if it's on INZ's list of qualifications eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, you studied it full time in New Zealand for the full duration, and you'll work in a related job.
Can I work while my PSWV application is processed?
Not on an interim visa: it has visitor conditions until the PSWV is granted.
Getting help
Many graduates apply on their own. A licensed immigration adviser helps when your eligibility is unclear, you're near the deadline, or you're planning the step from PSWV to residence. If your PSWV is declined and you're in New Zealand, you have 14 days to ask for reconsideration; an adviser or immigration lawyer can tell you if it's worth it.
Tell us your situation and we'll connect you with a licensed adviser or immigration lawyer. It's free to ask.
Sources: Immigration New Zealand, "Post-Study Work Visa" and "Staying to work after finishing your study" (immigration.govt.nz), read 28 October 2026.