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Will my PGDip followed by a Master's in New Zealand make me eligible for the post-study work visa?

27 Oct 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Under the rule change described, students who complete a 30-week postgraduate diploma and immediately progress to a Master's degree in New Zealand are now eligible for a post-study work visa. The visa lasts up to 3 years depending on the qualification. Confirm with Immigration New Zealand.

Mona Negi
Mona Negi Verified
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Yes, under the change described, students who pursue a 30-week postgraduate diploma and immediately progress to a Master's in New Zealand are eligible for a post-study work visa. The key words are immediately progress, so plan your pathway without a gap.

PGDip Pathway and Post-Study Work Visa

PointDetail
Pathway30-week PGDip followed immediately by a Master's degree in New Zealand
EligibilityEligible for a post-study work visa under the rule change described
Visa durationUp to 3 years, depending on the qualification you studied

What to Keep in Mind

  • Immigration New Zealand made other announcements alongside this change, so read the full rule set.
  • The visa length depends on your qualification.
  • Rules can change, so confirm them on the official Immigration New Zealand site.

My Advice

Before you enrol, ask your university to confirm in writing how the PGDip and Master's are structured. Then check the exact conditions with Immigration New Zealand.

How long can you stay and work after a NZ master's?

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