After completing the course in New Zealand, will I get a post-study work visa for a Bachelor's?
Yes, you will generally get a Post Study Work Visa after your Bachelor's if you studied full time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks. Apply within 3 months of your visa expiring, show NZD 5,000 in funds, and receive open work rights for up to 3 years.
Yes, you can generally expect to get a Post Study Work Visa once you finish your Bachelor's degree in New Zealand, as long as you meet Immigration New Zealand's core requirements. Your visa lets you take on almost any job with any employer, in any field or region, since you never need an offer lined up beforehand. The exact duration you receive depends on how long you actually studied.
Your Key Requirements And What You Get
| Requirement Or Benefit | Detail |
|---|---|
| Study duration | Full time study in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks |
| Application window | Apply no later than 3 months after your student visa expires |
| Funds needed | At least NZD 5,000 available for living expenses |
| Visa duration | Equal to your time spent studying, up to 3 years |
| Work rights | Open work rights for almost any employer, field or region |
Why The Open Work Rights Matter To You
- You do not need a job offer in hand before you apply, so you can search for work after you land the visa.
- You can work across almost any employer, industry or region in New Zealand rather than being tied to one sponsor.
- Your visa length tracks your study period, so a full three year Bachelor's can earn you the maximum three years of work rights.
My Advice
Mark your student visa expiry date now and set a reminder at least a month before it, since you must lodge your Post Study Work Visa application within 3 months of that expiry. Start saving toward the NZD 5,000 funds requirement well before your course ends, so proving your finances never becomes the reason your application gets delayed.
How long can you stay and work after a NZ master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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