New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa 2026: Eligibility, Fee and How to Apply
International students who complete an eligible qualification in New Zealand can remain in the country and work for up to three years through the New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa.
Immigration New Zealand currently lists the visa fee from NZD 1,670, with 80% of applications processed within approximately six weeks. Applicants must also show at least NZD 5,000 to support themselves while in New Zealand.
The visa can potentially provide a pathway toward residence, although obtaining a Post-Study Work Visa does not itself guarantee permanent residency.
New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa at a Glance
| Requirement | Current Rule |
|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | Up to 3 years |
| Visa Fee | From NZD 1,670 |
| Processing | 80% within about 6 weeks |
| Minimum Funds | NZD 5,000 |
| Main Requirement | Eligible qualification completed in New Zealand |
| Applications | Online |
| Can Work | Yes, subject to qualification/visa conditions |
| Family | Partner and dependent-child visas may be supported |
| Number of Times Available | Generally once |
| New Eligibility Change | From November 16, 2026 |
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must have recently completed an approved qualification in New Zealand.
For a degree-level 7 or higher qualification, Immigration New Zealand currently requires the qualification to have been studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks.
Eligible higher qualifications include:
- Level 7 degree;
- Level 8 postgraduate diploma;
- Level 9 Master’s degree; and
- Level 10 doctoral degree.
Applicants with an eligible non-degree Level 7 or lower qualification may also qualify, but their qualification must appear on Immigration New Zealand’s approved list.
In those cases, the job they take must generally be related to what they studied.
How Long Can You Work in New Zealand?
The visa can allow a stay of up to three years.
The actual length depends on the applicant’s qualification and the duration and level of study completed in New Zealand.
Therefore, completing any short course in New Zealand does not automatically entitle a student to a three-year work visa.
New Rule From November 16, 2026
An important expansion takes effect on November 16, 2026.
Immigration New Zealand says Post-Study Work Visa eligibility will also extend to applicants who:
- complete an NZQCF Level 7 Graduate Diploma full-time in New Zealand; and
- already hold a bachelor’s degree completed either in New Zealand or overseas.
This is particularly relevant to international students considering a New Zealand graduate diploma after completing an undergraduate degree elsewhere.
Applicants should still check the detailed rules applying on the date they submit their application.
How Much Does the Visa Cost?
Immigration New Zealand currently lists the Post-Study Work Visa cost from:
NZD 1,670
Fees can change, so applicants should confirm the amount shown by Immigration New Zealand when submitting their application.
How Much Money Do You Need?
Applicants must show at least:
NZD 5,000
Immigration New Zealand says documents such as bank statements in the applicant’s name can be used to demonstrate the required funds.
The NZD 5,000 requirement applies whether the visa sought is for one, two or three years.
When Should You Apply?
For many applicants, the Post-Study Work Visa application must be submitted no later than three months after the student visa expires.
Different limits apply in specific circumstances.
Doctoral Students
Applicants completing a doctoral degree have up to six months after their student visa expires.
Certain Consecutive Qualifications
In a specific situation where an applicant first completes an eligible qualification and then immediately completes a higher-level qualification in less than 30 weeks, the person may have up to 12 months from the expiry of the student visa associated with the first eligible qualification.
Applicants should calculate their individual deadline carefully rather than assuming everybody receives the same three-month period.
What Documents Are Needed?
Immigration New Zealand lists documents including:
- passport or acceptable identity document;
- acceptable photograph;
- proof of the New Zealand qualification;
- academic transcript or confirmation from the educational institution;
- police certificates where required; and
- evidence of sufficient funds.
Applicants can also be asked to provide health information, including a chest X-ray or medical examination depending on their circumstances.
Documents that are not in English may need an acceptable translation.
Are Police Certificates Required?
They may be.
Immigration New Zealand says applicants aged 17 or older generally need police certificates where their total time in New Zealand will reach 24 months or more, including relevant time already spent there.
Certificates may be required from countries of citizenship and countries where the applicant has lived for more than five years after turning 17.
Can You Work for Any Employer?
This depends on the qualification.
Applicants holding an eligible degree-level 7 or higher qualification have broader employment rights under the Post-Study Work Visa.
For certain non-degree Level 7 or lower qualifications, employment must relate to the applicant’s field of study and meet the conditions placed on the visa.
Applicants should therefore check the work conditions printed on their individual eVisa.
Can You Bring Your Family?
The Post-Study Work Visa can allow the holder to support applications for eligible family members.
Immigration New Zealand says:
- a partner may be able to apply for a work visa; and
- dependent children may be able to apply for student visas allowing them to study in New Zealand.
Eligibility for accompanying family members depends on the applicable immigration rules and individual circumstances.
Can You Get the Visa More Than Once?
Immigration New Zealand states that applicants can generally receive a Post-Study Work Visa only once.
Students should therefore take this into consideration when planning consecutive courses or qualifications.
Does the Visa Guarantee New Zealand Residence?
No.
Immigration New Zealand describes the visa as one that can lead to a resident visa, but residence requires meeting the criteria of an appropriate residence pathway.
A Post-Study Work Visa should therefore not be described as automatic permanent residency.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete an Eligible Qualification
Successfully complete the approved New Zealand programme on which the application will be based.
Step 2: Check Your Application Deadline
Confirm whether your case falls under the three-, six- or special 12-month application period.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Gather your passport, photograph, qualification evidence, transcript, proof of funds and any required police or health documentation.
Step 4: Apply Online
Submit the application through Immigration New Zealand’s official online system and pay the applicable visa fee.
Step 5: Monitor the Application
Immigration New Zealand may request additional health, police or supporting evidence during processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa?
Eligible applicants can receive a visa for up to three years, depending on their qualification and study.
How much does it cost?
The official Immigration New Zealand page currently lists the cost from NZD 1,670.
How much money must I show?
Applicants need at least NZD 5,000 for living expenses.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Pakistani students can apply if they have completed an eligible New Zealand qualification and meet all other immigration requirements.
Can I apply immediately after studying in Pakistan?
The Post-Study Work Visa normally depends on completing an eligible qualification in New Zealand. From November 16, a qualifying New Zealand Level 7 Graduate Diploma can also be combined with an existing bachelor’s degree obtained overseas.
How long does processing take?
Immigration New Zealand currently says 80% are processed within six weeks.
Final Word
New Zealand’s Post-Study Work Visa is primarily designed to allow international graduates to gain work experience after completing qualifying studies in the country.
Its key benefits include the ability to remain for up to three years, work under the conditions attached to the applicant’s qualification and potentially support visas for a partner and dependent children.
Students planning studies now should pay particular attention to the November 16, 2026 eligibility expansion, especially those who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are considering a Level 7 Graduate Diploma in New Zealand.