Post-Study Work Visa — a high-level overview

A Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) lets eligible international students stay in New Zealand to work after completing a qualifying programme. How long the visa lasts usually depends on your qualification level and how long you studied in New Zealand.

A few useful high-level points:

• A PSWV is usually granted only once.
• Eligibility depends on your qualification type, full-time study time in NZ, and INZ rules at the time you apply.
• From 16 November 2026, INZ is expanding eligibility for some pathways (including certain Graduate Diplomas) — each case needs to be checked against the right category.
• Keep an eye on your current visa expiry and prepare study documents early so you are not applying at the last minute.

This article is a general overview and does not replace a review of an individual application.