What are the post-study work visa options and duration for Australia and New Zealand?
Australia's post-study work visa (Subclass 485) gives 2 years for coursework Masters, 3 years for research Masters, and 4 years for PhD graduates, with an age limit of 35 for coursework and 50 for research/PhD. New Zealand's Post-Study Work Visa gives up to 3 years for Master's and PhD holders with no age restriction. Both visas allow unrestricted work for any employer.
Australia and New Zealand both offer generous post-study work rights to international graduates, making them attractive beyond just the academic qualification. The duration depends on your degree level, and for Australia, there is also an age limit that applies differently for research vs. coursework graduates.
Australia - Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa
| Degree Type | PSWV Duration | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's by Coursework | 2 years | Under 35 |
| Master's by Coursework | 2 years | Under 35 |
| Master's by Research | 3 years | Under 50 |
| PhD / Doctoral | 4 years | Under 50 |
| Regional study bonus | +1-2 years on top of above | Same age limits apply |
| Indian nationals (AI-ECTA) | 3 years for Masters (coursework) | Standard limits apply |
New Zealand - Post-Study Work Visa
Qualification Level | Duration | Age Limit | Application Window |
|---|---|---|---|
Master's / Doctoral (Level 9 or 10) | 3 years | Under 55 | Apply within 3 months of student visa expiry |
Bachelor's / Honours (Level 7 or 8) | 3 years | Under 55 | Apply within 3 months of student visa expiry |
Diploma / Certificate (Level 4-6) | 1 year (if occupation on Green List) | Under 55 | Must apply from within New Zealand |
Minimum study for PSWV eligibility | 30 weeks full-time (degree level) | - | - |
My Advice
If your priority is maximising post-study work flexibility, Australia edges out New Zealand for PhD graduates (4 years vs 3 years) and offers strong pathways to permanent residency through state-nominated skilled migration programs. For coursework Masters graduates who are 30+ years old and approaching the 35-year age limit, carefully check your age at the time you will be applying for Subclass 485 - not at enrollment. If you will be 35 or older at the time of application, consider shifting to a research-based Master's to access the under-50 age limit. New Zealand's 3-year visa with no age limit up to 55 is the more accessible option for older applicants.
More expert answers
New Zealand generally offers longer post-study work visa (PSWV) durations than Australia for higher-level qualifications.
- New Zealand:
- Master's/Doctoral (Level 9/10): Up to 3 years
- Bachelor’s/Graduate Diploma (Level 7/8): Matches study period, usually 1 - 4 years
- Diplomas/Certificates (Level 4 - 6): Matches study period, up to 3 years
- Australia (Temporary Graduate Visa 485):
- Graduate Work Stream: Up to 18 months
- Post-Study Work Stream:
- Bachelor’s: 2 years
- Master’s (coursework): 2 years
- Master’s (research): 3 years
- Doctoral: 4 years
Visa durations are subject to change. For detailed guidance, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
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