What is a New Zealand Post Study Work Visa?

The New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa is a pathway for students from other countries who want to stay longer and get work experience after finishing their studies.

It lets graduates use what they have learned during their course in professional work environments.

Visa Charges (NZ Immigration)

Starts from NZD $700

Length of Stay

Upto 3 years

Processing Time

Around 7 weeks for 80% of applications

Benefits of Post Study Work Visa

  • Work Opportunities: With this visa, you can work either full-time or part-time, depending on your qualifications and how long your visa lasts. It’s a great chance to experience the New Zealand job scene.
  • Support for Family: If you have a partner, they can also apply for a work visa. Plus, your kids can go to school for free as local students.

Note: The cost and availability of New Zealand visas can change because of decisions made by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.

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Criteria for the Visa

To qualify for the Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand, you must meet specific requirements as listed below.

Completed Degree

You need to have finished a recognised qualification from a New Zealand school. The length of your visa can vary based on the level of your qualification.

Relevant Job

Your job must match what you studied. This ensures you get to use the skills and knowledge you learned during your studies.

Visa Duration

How long your Post Study Work Visa lasts depends on your qualification:
– Bachelor’s degree or higher: Up to 3 years
– Level 4-6 (Diploma) or Level 7-8 (Postgraduate) qualification: Up to 3 years
– Level 4-6 (Graduate Diploma) qualification: Up to 1 year

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Post Study Work Visa Process at ICL

Read through our careful and thorough process for applying for the Post Study Work Visa. Our process helps in making sure your visa has the highest chance of success.

Step 1: Choosing Your Visa

Decide which Post Study Work Visa suits you best based on your education and how long you plan to stay in New Zealand.

Step 2: Preparing Your Papers

Get together all the papers you need, like proof you finished your studies, any job offers you have, and your ID.

Step 3: Checking Health and Character

Make sure you have health check-ups and police clearance papers that Immigration New Zealand asks for.

Step 4: Applying Online

Fill out your application on the Immigration New Zealand website. Double-check everything is right so it doesn’t slow down the process.

Step 5: Processing Your Application

Immigration New Zealand will go over your application. They might ask for more info or papers during this time.

Step 6: Waiting for a Decision

Wait to hear back from Immigration New Zealand. If they say yes, you’ll get your Post Study Work Visa. Then you can live and work in New Zealand.

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FAQs

What is the Post Study Work Visa?

The Post Study Work Visa is designed for international students who have completed their studies in New Zealand and want to gain work experience in their field.

What are the benefits of the Post Study Work Visa?

This visa allows you to stay in New Zealand, work in your field of study, and potentially transition to a longer-term visa or residence.

How long can I stay with this visa?

The duration of your visa depends on your level of qualification, ranging from 1 year to 3 years.

When can I apply for the Post Study Work Visa?

You can apply within three months of completing your qualification.

Can I include my family in my application?

In most cases, you can include your spouse or partner and dependent children in your application.

Do I need a job offer to apply for this visa?

A job offer is not always required, but your employment must be relevant to your field of study to meet visa requirements.

What documents do I need for the application?

Necessary documents include proof of your completed qualification, job offer (if applicable), health and character certificates, and personal identification documents.

What is the processing time for this visa?

Processing times vary based on individual applications and Immigration New Zealand's current workload. It's advisable to consult the latest information from Immigration New Zealand or your immigration consultant.

Is there an interview process?

Typically, there is no interview process for this visa.

Can I work in any job with this visa?

Your employment must be relevant to your field of study to meet visa requirements.

Can I switch to a different visa category while on the Post Study Work Visa?

Yes, you may be able to transition to other visa categories, such as a skilled migrant visa, if you meet the eligibility criteria.

What are the health and character requirements for this visa?

Applicants must undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to meet New Zealand's health and character standards.

Can I extend my Post Study Work Visa?

In some cases, you may be eligible for an extension, but it depends on your specific circumstances. Consult Immigration New Zealand or your immigration consultant for guidance.

What happens if my application is declined?

If your application is declined, you will receive a detailed explanation. You may explore alternative options, seek assistance from immigration experts, or consider reapplying.

How can immigration consultants help in this process?

Immigration consultants can provide guidance throughout the application process, ensuring your documents are in order, assisting with any issues that may arise during the application, and helping you understand your best options for immigration to New Zealand.

Can I apply for permanent residency directly after the Post Study Work Visa?

While the Post Study Work Visa provides a pathway to gain work experience in New Zealand, it doesn't grant permanent residency directly. You would typically need to apply for permanent residency separately and meet the eligibility criteria.

Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do with this visa?

You are generally allowed to work in any job, but it's essential that your employment is related to your field of study.

What is the processing fee for the Post Study Work Visa?

The application fee can vary depending on your situation, so it's advisable to check the latest fee information on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Can I travel outside of New Zealand while holding this visa?

Yes, you can travel in and out of New Zealand while on a Post Study Work Visa, but ensure you meet the visa conditions and have a valid travel document.

What should I do if I want to change my employer while on this visa?

If you want to change employers, you should consult with Immigration New Zealand or an immigration consultant to understand the process and ensure compliance with visa conditions.

Obtaining a post-study work visa in New Zealand can be a valuable opportunity to kickstart your career in a beautiful and welcoming country. Review the specific requirements and stay updated on any changes in immigration policies to ensure a smooth application process.

Disclaimer: The information provided is subject to change based on New Zealand government policies. For the most current information, please refer to Immigration New Zealand or contact ICL Immigration for updated guidance.

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