What is the PR process in New Zealand after completing masters?
Yes, you can pursue permanent residency (PR) in New Zealand after completing your master's degree. The typical process is:
- Post Study Work Visa (PSW): After your master's, you can apply for a PSW visa, usually valid up to 3 years. This allows you to gain skilled work experience in New Zealand.
- Skilled Employment: Secure a full-time job relevant to your qualification, earning at or above the current median wage (subject to change).
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): With a master's, you receive 5 points in the SMC system. You need 6 points total, so at least one year of skilled work experience in New Zealand is usually required.
- Resident Visa: Once eligible, apply for the SMC resident visa. You must hold this for 2 consecutive years, living in New Zealand at least 184 days per year.
- Permanent Resident Visa: After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for PR, which allows indefinite stay and travel.
Immigration rules and wage thresholds are subject to change.
Planning to settle in NZ after your master's?
PR pathways, timelines and which countries make it easier. Honest guidance.
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 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?
- Which country is the best fit for my academic profile, career goals, and budget for a Bachelor's/Postgraduate?
- 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?
- What is the work permit duration for Singapore and other countries like Australia and New Zealand?