How does the post-study work permit duration compare for New Zealand, Ireland, and the UK for a Master's/PhD?
New Zealand offers the longest post-study work permit for master's graduates (up to 3 years), followed by Ireland (up to 2 years with a possible extension), and the UK (currently 2 years, reducing to 18 months from 2027).
- New Zealand: Up to 3 years for master's/PhD (Level 9/10) with at least 30 weeks of full-time study; duration typically matches course length for bachelor's/postgraduate diploma. Open work rights. - Ireland: Up to 12 months for bachelor's (Level 8); up to 24 months for master's/PhD (Level 9/10) with a possible 12-month extension based on job search efforts. Full-time work allowed. - UK: 2 years for bachelor's/master's if applying by Dec 31, 2026; 18 months for applications from Jan 1, 2027. PhD: 3 years. Graduate Visa is non-extendable.
Visa durations and policies are subject to change.
More expert answers
Yes, there are key differences between post-study work permit durations and conditions in Ireland and New Zealand.
- Ireland: Master’s graduates can stay for up to 24 months on a post-study work visa. During this period, you can work full-time but cannot be self-employed or run a business. Afterward, you need to secure an employment permit (such as the Critical Skills Employment Permit) to continue working, which can lead to permanent residency over time.
- New Zealand: Master’s graduates are eligible for a Post Study Work Visa valid for up to 3 years if they studied full-time for at least 30 weeks. This visa allows full-time work and offers a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category after gaining skilled work experience.
New Zealand generally offers a longer post-study work visa and more flexibility for employment compared to Ireland.
Here are the current post-study work permit durations:
United Kingdom:
- Bachelor's and Master's: 2 years (if you apply by 31 December 2026); 18 months from 1 January 2027
- PhD: 3 years (no change after 2027)
Ireland:
- Bachelor's: 12 months
- Master's and PhD: 24 months
New Zealand:
- Master's/PhD (Level 9/10): up to 3 years
- Bachelor's (Level 7): duration matches study length, up to 3 years
These durations are subject to change and may have conditions on the type of work.
How long can you stay and work after an Irish master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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