New work visa options for graduates available from 16 November 2026

From 16 November 2026, two changes to post-study work rights come into effect. A new Short-term Graduate Work Visa will be introduced for eligible graduates who do not qualify for a Post Study Work Visa, and Post Study Work Visa eligibility will be extended to a wider group of graduate diploma holders.

Short-term Graduate Work Visa

The Short-term Graduate Work Visa provides six months of open work rights. It is designed for graduates who completed a NZQCF Level 5 to 7 qualification in New Zealand but do not qualify for a Post Study Work Visa.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a qualification at NZQCF Level 5 to 7, studied full-time for at least 24 weeks in New Zealand
• Not hold a qualification that makes them eligible for a Post Study Work Visa
• Have at least NZD $5,000 available to support themselves
• Not have previously been granted a Short-term Graduate Work Visa or Post Study Work Visa
• Submit their application within three months of their student visa expiring

English language, foundation, and bridging qualifications are not eligible. Business ownership is not permitted on this visa. Holders cannot support a partner for a work visa or children for a Dependent Child Student Visa, though partners may be able to apply in their own right.

The visa can only be granted once and cannot be extended.

Post Study Work Visa eligibility extended

From 16 November 2026, Post Study Work Visa eligibility is extended to graduates who:

• Completed a graduate diploma at NZQCF Level 7 in New Zealand, full-time for the full duration
• Also hold a bachelor's degree, completed in New Zealand or overseas
• Were enrolled for the full duration of the graduate diploma, with no cross-crediting or recognition of prior learning

The Post Study Work Visa can be issued for the duration the student spent studying the graduate diploma in New Zealand, up to a maximum of one year. Open work rights are granted where the applicant also holds a bachelor's degree.

The Post Study Work Visa can only ever be granted once. Anyone who has previously held one is not eligible for another, regardless of the level of subsequent study.

For employers

Both visas allow graduates to work for any employer under an employment agreement. The Short-term Graduate Work Visa gives graduates time to find work and, where appropriate, transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa. Employers who regularly hire international graduates should be aware of these pathways when planning their recruitment.

If you have questions about how these changes apply to a graduate you are hiring or to your own situation after study, our team can assist.