What is the post-study work permit duration for master's courses in New Zealand?
More expert answers
Yes, after completing your master's degree in New Zealand, you can apply for a Post Study Work (PSW) Visa. This typically allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years.
Key points:
- Eligibility: Master's degree (Level 9) or higher, completed full-time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand.
- Work rights: You can work for any employer in any role.
- Application window: Apply within three months after your student visa expires.
- Financial requirement: At least NZD $5,000 to support yourself.
PSW visa rules and eligibility are subject to change.
Yes, New Zealand offers a Post Study Work Visa (PSW) for both diploma and master's graduates, with duration based on your qualification level.
- Master's degree (Level 9): Up to 3 years of open work rights if you study full-time for at least 30 weeks.
- Graduate Diploma (Level 7): From November 16, 2026, up to 1 year of open work rights, matching your study duration, if you have a bachelor's degree.
- Other Diplomas (Level 4 - 6): PSW duration matches your study length; work rights are limited to jobs related to your qualification.
You must apply for the PSW within 3 months of your student visa expiring. Immigration rules 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.
More Post-study work questions
- Is Germany the best first priority country for my course and career scope for a Master's?
- What are the career prospects in Singapore after completing an MPH at NUS as an Indian student?
- Which Master's programs in Europe would be most suitable for someone with a B.Com (69%) and MBA (70%), given my interest in management-focused roles and lack of extensive work experience?
- Which master's course suits a Supply Chain Management graduate planning to study in Canada?
- Which is more suitable for my son's master's education: Dubai or the USA, considering cost, location, program variety, post-study work options, and pathways to permanent residency?
- Which country is more suitable for a Computer Science master's student who prioritizes lower costs and a strong job market, Germany or Ireland?
- After completing my studies, can I stay back in Ireland and apply for permanent residency for a Master's/Bachelor's?
- Can an Indian student get a job in Germany after a master's without prior work experience, especially with good German skills?
More New Zealand questions
- Is it possible to study computer science with specialization in artificial intelligence in UK/New Zealand for a Master's?
- Can you add preferences for good digital marketing and performance marketing courses in New Zealand for a Master's?
- Is it possible for my son, who is currently in twelfth grade, to study in New Zealand next year for a Diploma?
- Which countries have less strict or different financial requirements compared to New Zealand, especially regarding funding duration?
- What steps do I follow to apply for a New Zealand student visa from India?
- Have you discussed your abroad education plan with your parents in UK/Australia?
- Which master's specialisation suits a Pharmacy graduate with 70 percent marks applying to New Zealand for clinical roles?
- Will my work experience from a small company be accepted in New Zealand/Germany for a Master's?