What are the post-study work visa durations for a Master's in New Zealand?

Post-study work visa (PSW) durations vary by country and qualification:

New Zealand
- Master’s/PhD: Up to 3 years (full-time study, 30+ weeks)
- Bachelor’s: Matches course length (e.g., 3-year degree = 3-year visa)
- Postgraduate Diploma: Typically 1 year (matches course length)
- Other qualifications: Duration equals study length, with possible job restrictions

Australia
- Bachelor’s/Master’s (coursework): 2 years standard (up to 4 years in skill shortage/regional areas)
- Master’s (research)/PhD: 3 years standard (up to 5 years in skill shortage/regional areas)
- Regional study: May allow additional extensions

Canada
- 8 months - <2 years program: Work permit equals study length
- 2+ years (including Master’s): Up to 3 years
- Note: PGWP is one-time, non-renewable

UK
- Bachelor’s/Master’s: Up to 2 years (apply by 31 Dec 2026); 18 months after 1 Jan 2027
- PhD: 3 years

Visa rules are subject to change.

New Zealand offers two main post-study work visa options for international graduates:

- Post Study Work Visa (PSWV): For graduates with a Bachelor’s degree (Level 7) or higher, studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks. Duration is up to 3 years for Master’s/Doctoral degrees, and matches your study length for Bachelor’s/Postgraduate Diplomas. You must show at least NZD $5,000 for living expenses. This visa can also support partner work visas and dependent children as domestic students.

- Short-term Graduate Work Visa: For Level 5 - 7 qualifications not eligible for PSWV, studied full-time for at least 24 weeks. Provides up to 6 months of open work rights. You must also show at least NZD $5,000 for living expenses. This visa does not support partner or dependent visas.

Visa rules and durations are subject to change.

New Zealand offers two main post-study work visa (PSW) options for international graduates:

- Post Study Work Visa: For those who complete a Level 7 (Bachelor’s) or higher qualification in New Zealand. Duration is up to 3 years for Master’s/Doctoral degrees, or matches the length of your studies for Bachelor’s/Postgraduate Diplomas. You can work full-time for any employer.

- Short-term Graduate Work Visa (from November 16, 2026): For Level 5 to 7 graduates not eligible for the main PSW visa. Duration is up to 6 months with open work rights.

Visa durations and eligibility are subject to change.

Master's graduates at Level 9 typically qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa of up to 3 years. This lets you work full-time, including in the sectors that are in demand in New Zealand.

Post-Study Work Visa Snapshot

Sectors and Salaries to Know About

• Popular sectors include healthcare, engineering, construction, ICT and agriculture.
• Many of these appear on Immigration New Zealand's Green List, which offers faster routes to residence.
• Skilled salaries in popular sectors range from NZD 65,000 to NZD 130,000+ per year (approx INR 35.24 L to 70.49 L).
• Key hubs are Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

My Advice

Pick a course that links to a Green List occupation, because that improves your options after the visa. Visa rules can change, so check the official Immigration New Zealand page before you commit.