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Does the course I choose provide a Level 9 qualification and a work visa for my wife in New Zealand for a Master's?

04 Sept 2026 · Answered by Saru Sharma · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, a standard Master's in New Zealand is a Level 9 qualification, making your wife eligible for a Partner of a Student Work Visa. This open visa lets her work full-time for any employer, matching your student visa duration, provided you show a genuine relationship together.

Saru Sharma
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Leap Scholar's Counsellor
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Yes, if your course is genuinely a Master's degree, it sits at Level 9 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework. That classification is exactly what unlocks open work rights for your wife alongside your studies.

Your Wife's Partner Work Visa at a Glance

DetailWhat Applies
Visa TypePartner of a Student Work Visa, fully open
Work RightsFull-time, any employer, any industry, anywhere in New Zealand
DurationMatches the length of your student visa
Extra Funds RequiredApproximately NZD 4,200 on top of your own student visa funds

What Immigration New Zealand Will Ask For

  • Proof of a genuine, stable relationship such as your marriage certificate and joint bank accounts
  • Health and character documents, including police clearances where applicable
  • Confirmation your course awards a Level 9 Master's, not a Level 8 Postgraduate Diploma

My Advice

Double check your specific course outline with the university admissions office to confirm it explicitly awards a Level 9 Master's Degree, since this single classification detail is what determines whether your wife's open work visa application succeeds.

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