You didn’t just come to New Zealand for the scenery (though those mountain views are nice). You’re here because this country offers something rare: a real chance to turn your student visa into a work visa, and maybe even permanent residency.
Here’s how it actually works – no fluff, just the facts you need.
Your Golden Ticket: The Post-Study Work Visa
This is what makes NZ special. While other countries kick you out after graduation, NZ says: “Stick around and get some experience.”
What you get:
- 1-3 years to work any job (yes, even at that cool café in Ponsonby)
- No need to find an employer before applying
- Time to figure out if you want to stay long-term
The catch? You need to:
- Complete at least 30 weeks of study in NZ
- Graduate with at least a Level 4 qualification (that’s diploma level or higher)
- Apply within 3 months after your student visa expires
How Long You Can Stay
| What You Studied | How Long You Can Work |
| Bachelor’s or higher | Up to 3 years |
| Diploma (Level 5-6) | Up to 2 years |
| Certificate (Level 4) | 1 year |
Pro Tip: Study in Auckland? You’ll only get 2 years unless your job pays at least NZD $55k/year.
What Comes Next? Turning Temporary into Permanent
The real game begins after your post-study visa. Here are your options:
- Work to Residence Visa
- Work any job for 2 years
- Then apply for residency if you meet salary requirements
- Green List Fast Track
- If you work in high-demand fields (nursing, engineering, tech)
- Could get residency in as little as 6 months
- Partner Visa
- Found love with a Kiwi? That’s a pathway too
Choosing Your School Wisely
Not all qualifications are created equal when it comes to work rights:
Go University Route If:
- You want the 3-year work visa
- Your field requires degrees (engineering, law, medicine)
- You might pursue postgraduate studies
Consider Polytechnics If:
- You want hands-on skills faster
- Your field values practical training (IT, healthcare, trades)
- You want to enter workforce quicker
Avoid:
- Short certificates that don’t qualify for work visas
- Schools not approved by NZQA
The Money Question
Let’s talk numbers:
Tuition Per Year:
- Uni degrees: $22-35k
- Polytechnics: $18-25k
- PhD students pay local rates ($6-9k – best deal in NZ!)
But remember:
- You can work 20 hrs/week during term
- Minimum wage is $23.15/hr
- Many students cover living costs through part-time work
When to Apply
Mark these dates:
- February intake: Apply Oct-Dec
- July intake: Apply Mar-May
- Polytechnics often have rolling admissions
Don’t wait: Visa processing can take 2 months. Start 6 months before you want to arrive.
The Bottom Line
NZ gives you what most countries don’t – a real shot at staying after graduation. But you’ve got to play it smart:
- Choose a qualification that gets you work rights
- Pick a field with good job prospects
- Use your post-study time to network and gain experience
- Explore residency options before your visa expires
I’ve seen too many students realize too late they studied the wrong thing. Don’t be that person. Your NZ future starts with the choices you make today.
Need help deciding? Ask yourself:
- What jobs are actually in demand in NZ?
- How can I get work experience before graduating?
- What’s my 3-year plan after studies?