What are the job opportunities and work permit conditions after study in New Zealand?
Yes, you can work in New Zealand after your studies through the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), which lets international graduates gain local job experience.
- Post Study Work Visa (PSWV): Allows you to work for up to three years after completing a full-time qualification at Level 7 (Bachelor’s) or higher in New Zealand.
- Eligibility: You must have studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks and apply within three months of your student visa expiring.
- Financial requirement: You need to show at least NZD $5,000 for living expenses.
- Upcoming change: From November 16, 2026, a new Short-term Graduate Work Visa (up to six months) will also be available.
Job opportunities are strong in sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and business. Work experience in New Zealand can help you qualify for permanent residency later.
For next steps or personalized support, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.
More expert answers
Yes, after completing a master's degree in New Zealand, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) that allows you to stay and work in the country for up to three years.
- Eligibility: Complete a Level 9 master's degree with at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand.
- Application window: Apply within three months after your student visa expires.
- Funds required: Show at least NZD $5,000 for living expenses (subject to change).
- Work rights: Open - work for any employer, any job.
- Family: Partner may apply for a work visa; dependent children can study as domestic students.
Leap can guide you through eligibility and the application process.
Will you actually get a job after your NZ master's?
Talk to a counsellor about real outcomes, salaries and which courses employers hire from.
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?
- 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?
- How good is the post masters job market in the UK and Europe for Indian students, especially after an MSc in Finance?
- Is the negativity about Germany's job market for Indian students accurate, or does effort make the real difference?
- What are the differences in career opportunities and PR options between Germany and Canada?
- Is my daughter planning to settle down abroad with permanent residency or just study in Singapore/USA for a Master's?
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?
- Will my work experience from a small company be accepted in New Zealand/Germany for a Master's?
- What is the cost and budget criteria for studying in UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and Singapore for a Master's?
- Can you tell me if there are any new sports management courses available that I can do in New Zealand or Australia for a Master's?
- Can my dependent work full time from day one in New Zealand for a Master's/PhD?