New Zealand Post-study work - PR & settlement
74 questions
Expert Answers
Where do I start if I want New Zealand PR after studying there as an Indian student?
→New Zealand PR takes two stages. First earn a Resident Visa by claiming 6 points under the Skilled Migrant Category, then land a qualifying skilled job, and after 24 months on that visa, upgrade to an unrestricted Permanent Resident Visa by living in New Zealand 184 days in each year.
What are the direct pathways to permanent residency in Canada and New Zealand after completing a psychology-related course?
→No, a psychology degree alone does not directly grant permanent residency in either country. Canada offers a post-graduation work permit, up to 3 years, leading to Express Entry, while New Zealand offers a post-study work visa leading to the Green List or Skilled Migrant Category, both requiring skilled work first.
Can I pursue early childhood education programs in New Zealand at the age of 55?
→Yes, there is no upper age limit to study Early Childhood Education in New Zealand at 55, but residence pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category and Straight to Residence Visa require you to be 55 or younger when you apply, so plan your timeline accordingly.
How competitive is it to gain permanent residency points and job offers in New Zealand and Australia, given my qualifications and work experience in a skilled occupation?
→Competitiveness varies by occupation and system. Australia requires a minimum 65 points for skilled visas, but reaching it does not guarantee an invitation. New Zealand requires 6 skilled-residence points, and Green List occupations offer faster, sometimes direct, pathways to residence.
After my Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand expires, can I apply for permanent residency through the Skilled Migrant Category if I have a skilled job on the in-demand list, or do I have to leave the country?
→No, you do not have to leave. If you submit your Skilled Migrant Category residence application while your Post Study Work Visa is still valid, Immigration New Zealand issues an automatic Interim Visa so you can stay lawfully while it processes, provided your job meets SMC or Green List requirements.
What are the top countries for permanent residency after completing a master's degree, considering my current profile and budget?
→Canada and Germany are the strongest post-master's PR routes for most Indian students: Canada credits Express Entry with post-PGWP Canadian work experience, while Germany's EU Blue Card can lead to a settlement permit in as little as 21 months with B1 German, a genuinely lower-budget option.
All Questions (74)
What are the chances of getting PR in New Zealand compared to Australia, and how long does it take?
→How can my husband's continuous work experience be used as justification for our New Zealand PR application?
→Can one apply for PR in New Zealand after completing masters and working for two years in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 job for a Master's?
→Do countries like New Zealand and Canada provide points towards permanent residence after completing a master's?
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