New Zealand Post Study Work Visa (PSWV)

The Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) allows international students who’ve completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand to live and work in the country for up to 3 years. It’s a great opportunity to gain real-world experience and potentially transition to residence under skilled migration pathways.

• Have completed an eligible qualification from a New Zealand education provider.
• Apply within 3 months (or 6 months for PhD students) of your student visa expiring.
• Have studied in New Zealand full-time for at least 30 weeks.
• Hold a qualification that meets the visa framework criteria:
  • Level 7 Bachelor’s or higher, or
  • Level 7 & Level 4–6 diplomas if on the Green List.

Note: Postgraduate diplomas and diplomas not leading to a Green List job are not eligible under the 2023 rule changes.

• Work for any employer, full-time, in any job (Bachelor’s and higher qualifications).
• Green List qualification holders may be restricted to a related job.
• Visa cannot be extended — but can lead to work or residence visas
• Only one PSWV can be granted per applicant.

• Partners: May apply for:
  • A visitor visa, or
  • A work visa if you're working in a Green List job or earning twice the median wage (NZD $63.22/hour or $131,486/year).
• Children: May attend school as domestic students.

• Gain local work experience.
• Transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
• Apply for Skilled Migrant Category Residence or Work to Residence visa.
• Apply for a Straight to Residence Visa (if eligible for Tier 1 Green List job).

• Application Fee: NZD $700
• Immigration Levy: NZD $75
• Processing Time: 20–35 working days (average)

• Step 1: Complete your qualification in New Zealand.
• Step 2: Gather required documents:
  • NZ qualification certificate
  • Final academic transcript
  • Passport & visa
  • Proof of insurance (if required)
  • Medical & police certificates (if needed)