New work visa options announced for international graduates

The Government has announced new work visa options for international students who complete their studies in New Zealand, with changes expected to take effect in late 2026.

The updates introduce a new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa and expand eligibility for the Post-Study Work Visa. The changes are intended to better align graduate pathways with New Zealand’s skills needs while supporting growth in international education.

New Short Term Graduate Work Visa

A new Short Term Graduate Work Visa will be introduced for graduates who are not currently eligible for a Post Study Work Visa. This visa will provide up to 6 months of work rights, allowing time to find employment and, where appropriate, transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a qualification at NZQCF Level 5 to 7
• Have studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks
• Have at least NZD $5,000 available to support themselves
• Not have previously held a Post Study Work Visa or Short Term Graduate Work Visa

The qualification must:

• Be completed in New Zealand
• Not be an English language, foundation or bridging qualification
• Not already make the applicant eligible for a Post Study Work Visa

Applicants may also be required to provide a medical certificate and chest X-ray, depending on their intended stay.

Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the student visa expiring.

Visa holders must work for an employer under an employment agreement or contract for services. Business ownership is not permitted.

This visa cannot be extended, and holders cannot apply for a second Short Term Graduate Work Visa.

Short Term Graduate Work Visa holders are not able to support partners for work visas or dependent children for student visas.

Post Study Work Visa eligibility extended

Eligibility for the Post Study Work Visa will be extended to graduates who complete a Graduate Diploma at NZQCF Level 7 and also hold a bachelor’s degree.

The bachelor’s degree may be obtained in New Zealand or overseas.

Applicants must:

• Complete the Graduate Diploma full-time in New Zealand
• Be enrolled in the qualification for its full duration
• Hold a bachelor’s degree (no time limit on when it was awarded)
• Not have previously held a Post Study Work Visa

Applicants will need to provide:

• Their Graduate Diploma qualification
• A copy of their bachelor’s degree certificate
• An academic transcript

The Post Study Work Visa may be granted for the length of time spent studying the Graduate Diploma in New Zealand, up to a maximum of 1 year.

An individual can only be granted one Post Study Work Visa.

Post Study Work Visa holders may support partners and dependent children, subject to meeting standard requirements.

What this means

For students, the introduction of a short-term visa provides an additional pathway to remain in New Zealand after study, particularly where Post Study Work Visa eligibility is not currently met.

For employers, the changes increase access to graduates who are available for short-term roles and may transition into longer-term employment.

How New Zealand Immigration Partners can assist

Understanding which visa pathway applies, and how qualification level, timing and prior visa history affect eligibility, can be complex. New Zealand Immigration Partners works with both students and employers to assess eligibility, plan post-study pathways and ensure applications align with current immigration requirements. If you would like guidance on how these changes apply to your situation, our team can assist.