How long can I stay and work after graduation in Ireland, the Netherlands, Australia or New Zealand?
08 Oct 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Post-study work durations vary: up to 24 months for master's graduates in Ireland, a 12-month Orientation Year in the Netherlands, 2 to 4 years in Australia depending on qualification, and up to 3 years in New Zealand for a master's or PhD.
Your stay after graduation depends on the country and your degree level. Ireland gives up to 24 months after a master's, the Netherlands 12 months, Australia up to 4 years for a PhD, and New Zealand up to 3 years.
Post-study work duration by country
| Country | Duration |
|---|---|
| Ireland | Up to 24 months for master's graduates; 12 months for bachelor's |
| Netherlands | 12-month Orientation Year permit for graduates |
| Australia | 2 years for master's by coursework, 3 years for master's by research, 4 years for PhD, 18 months for the Graduate Work stream |
| New Zealand | Up to 3 years for master's or PhD, 1 year for a graduate diploma (eligibility starts 16 November 2026), otherwise matched to study length (maximum 3 years) |
Working during this period
- During these periods you can typically work full-time without employer sponsorship.
- Durations depend on your degree level, so compare the rules for your exact qualification.
- Visa rules are subject to change, so check the official immigration page before you apply.
My Advice
If a longer stay is important, choose the country and degree level with that in mind, for example a research master's in Australia. Always confirm the current rules on official pages before you decide.
This information is available on: immigration.govt.nz
How long can you stay and work after an Australian master's?
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