Changes to New Zealand’s Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) 

Contents: 

• Key updates to the Post-Study Work Visa 
• What this means for international students

From 12 December 2024, Immigration New Zealand will make changes to the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV). These updates aim to enable more international graduates to work in New Zealand while aligning visa eligibility with roles on the Green List. 

Key updates to the Post-Study Work Visa

Improved flexibility for postgraduate pathways

• Students who complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and then transition directly into a master’s degree without meeting the required study duration for the master’s (30 weeks) can now apply for a PSWV based on their PGDip enrolment. This ensures that students taking a combined study pathway remain eligible for work rights after completing their studies.
• Students seeking a 3-year PSWV must complete at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand enrolled in the master’s degree itself.
• Graduates who finish an eligible qualification and then immediately complete a higher-level qualification that does not meet PSWV criteria (e.g., due to insufficient study duration) will now have 12 months from the end of their student visa for the eligible qualification to apply for a PSWV.

Updates to the list of eligible qualifications 

• The criteria for teaching qualifications have been expanded:
  • Secondary school teachers no longer need a bachelor’s degree specialising in Science, Mathematics, Technology, or Pacific Languages to qualify.
  • Primary and intermediate school teachers holding graduate diplomas and meeting Teaching Council registration requirements are now eligible for a PSWV.
• Mechanical Engineering Technicians can now apply for a PSWV with the addition of the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6), specialising in Mechanical Engineering.

What this means for international students

These changes provide greater flexibility for students pursuing postgraduate study pathways. They also broaden opportunities for graduates in key sectors like teaching and engineering, aligning visa eligibility with workforce priorities in New Zealand.

While students can choose to study any qualification in New Zealand, those planning to stay and work after graduation must meet the updated eligibility criteria. 

Next steps

If you’re an international student considering work opportunities in New Zealand after your studies, it’s essential to ensure your qualification aligns with the updated eligibility criteria. Reviewing the revised list of qualifications and understanding the new pathways can help you make informed decisions about your future.