Post-Study Work Visa
For international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification.
The Post-Study Work Visa is a New Zealand study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$815 including levy) and processing time (~4-6 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Post-Study Work Visa is for
For international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification.
Open work rights help meet skilled work requirements for residence pathways.
Post-Study Work Visa - eligibility criteria
- Have completed an eligible qualification (generally Level 7 degree or higher)
- Apply within the allowed time after course completion
- Hold a current or recently expired student visa
- Meet health and character requirements
- Qualification studied at an approved provider
Post-Study Work Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Post-Study Work Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$815 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~4-6 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years depending on qualification and where studied |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role (open work rights) |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~NZ$815 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-6 weeks |
| Route to PR | Open work rights help meet skilled work requirements for residence pathways. |
Pathway & next steps
Open work rights help meet skilled work requirements for residence pathways.
Many applicants also compare Student Visa · Fee Paying Student Visa, AEWV · Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), SMC · Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Post-Study Work Visa pitfalls we fix
Post-Study Work Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Post-Study Work Visa cost?
The Post-Study Work Visa government fee is ~NZ$815 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Post-Study Work Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-6 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Post-Study Work Visa lead to permanent residence?
Open work rights help meet skilled work requirements for residence pathways.
Can I work on the Post-Study Work Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role (open work rights).
Who can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa?
For international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority