How long is the post-study work permit (PSW) duration in New Zealand after masters for a Master's?
After completing an eligible Master's degree in New Zealand, you can get a Post-Study Work Visa valid for up to 3 years, or 36 months. You must have studied full-time for at least 30 weeks, and you need to apply within 3 months of your student visa's end date.
Once you finish an eligible Master's degree in New Zealand, you qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa valid for up to 3 years, giving you open work rights with no restrictions on employer or job role. Do not miss the application window though, since it closes fast.
New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa Snapshot
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Visa duration | Up to 3 years (36 months) |
| Qualification level | Eligible Master's degree (Level 9) |
| Minimum study duration | At least 30 weeks full-time in New Zealand |
| Application deadline | Within 3 months of your student visa's end date |
What The Visa Lets You Do
- It is a fully open work visa: you can work for any employer, in any role, without restrictions
- There is no requirement to have a job offer already lined up before you apply
- Missing the 3-month application window after your student visa ends can cost you this benefit entirely
My Advice
Put the exact end date of your student visa in your calendar the day you start your Master's, and file your Post-Study Work Visa application well within that 3-month window rather than close to the deadline, since any processing delay on your end has zero grace period here.
More expert answers
The typical post-study work visa (PSW) duration in New Zealand is up to 3 years for most bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
- Bachelor’s degree (Level 7): PSW usually matches the length of your study (e.g., 3 years for a 3-year degree).
- Master’s/Doctoral (Level 9/10): Up to 3 years if studied full-time for at least 30 weeks.
- Other qualifications (Level 4 - 8): Duration generally equals your study length, with some job restrictions for non-degree courses.
Visa rules and eligibility are subject to change.
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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