If I get a master's from New Zealand, how many points will I get for PR, and what are the PR requirements related to work experience in New Zealand?
You need 6 points under New Zealand's Skilled Migrant points system to qualify for PR. A New Zealand master's built on a prior bachelor's earns the full 6 points, while a stand-alone master's earns 5, leaving 1 year of full-time skilled work with an accredited employer to close the gap.
If you are planning a master's in New Zealand with residency in mind, the points math is straightforward. A New Zealand master's built on a prior bachelor's degree can earn you the full 6 points needed for PR outright, while other master's routes leave you just 1 year of work short.
Points From Your Master's Degree
| Master's Type | PR Points Earned |
|---|---|
| NZ master's with an underlying bachelor's (30+ weeks full-time study) | 6 points, meets the full requirement |
| NZ stand-alone master's or an overseas master's with a bachelor's | 5 points, 1 point short |
Closing The Gap With Skilled Work Experience
- After an eligible master's, you typically get a 3-year open Post-Study Work Visa to work for any accredited employer.
- Qualifying work must be full-time (30+ hours a week), with an accredited employer, and match ANZSCO skill levels 1 to 3.
- You earn 1 point per year of full-time skilled work experience in New Zealand, up to a cap of 3 points.
My Advice
If your target master's only earns 5 points, plan from day one to line up an accredited employer for your post-study work visa, since just 1 year of skilled full-time work closes the entire gap to residency, and your counsellor can help you check which employers on your shortlist are already INZ accredited.
Planning to settle in NZ after your master's?
PR pathways, timelines and which countries make it easier. Honest guidance.
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