Study, work and build your future in New Zealand
New Zealand offers internationally recognised qualifications, a high-quality education system and opportunities for eligible graduates to gain valuable work experience.
For students considering long-term settlement, there are potential pathways from education to skilled employment and residence.
Plan your pathwayNew Zealand Student Visa
A Student Visa allows international students to undertake full-time study at an approved education provider, from certificates and diplomas to Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees.
Depending on the qualification and visa conditions, students may work part-time while studying, and eligible students may also support visa applications for their partners and dependent children.
Requirements
Applicants generally must meet the following:
Offer of Place
An offer of admission from an approved New Zealand education provider.
Genuine Study Intention
Demonstrated through academic background, course selection and future career objectives.
Financial Capacity
Evidence of funds for tuition, living expenses and outward travel, or an acceptable sponsor.
English Proficiency
Meet the provider’s admission requirements. Minimum English score: IELTS 6.5 overall or PTE 58 overall.
Medical & Travel Insurance
Insurance acceptable to the education provider throughout the required period.
Health & Character
Meet Immigration New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
Conditions
Work rights
- Eligible students may work up to 25 hours per week during study.
- Full-time work may be permitted during scheduled holidays.
- Research Master’s and PhD students may qualify for more flexible work rights.
- Entitlements depend on the conditions stated on your visa.
Bringing family members
Family visa options exist for students in eligible qualifications. Eligibility should be assessed before choosing a programme.
- Partner work visa: for students in Level 9 Master’s, Level 10 PhD, or certain Level 7–8 qualifications, including specified Green List-related programmes.
- Dependent children: may qualify for student or visitor visas; children of eligible PhD students may receive domestic student treatment.
Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV)
The PSWV lets eligible graduates remain and work in New Zealand after study, gaining local experience and professional connections that may support a future residence application.
Eligible graduates may obtain a PSWV for up to three years, depending on their qualification and duration of study in New Zealand.
Requirements
- Complete an eligible qualification in New Zealand.
- Meet the minimum study duration for the qualification.
- At least 30 weeks of full-time study for an eligible Level 7 degree or Level 8–10 qualification.
- Non-degree qualifications at Level 7 or below must meet qualification-specific and full-duration requirements.
- Apply within the applicable timeframe after your Student Visa expires.
- Meet health and character requirements.
Conditions
- Work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on eligibility.
- Eligible degree graduates generally have flexible work rights; certain non-degree graduates must work in a field related to their studies.
- Eligible applicants may support visa applications for their partner and children.
Pathways to New Zealand Permanent Residency
Graduates may explore residence through skilled employment, qualifications and occupations that meet Immigration New Zealand’s requirements.
Skilled Migrant Category
A residence pathway for professionals with recognised qualifications and skills. Applicants need a skilled job or job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
Green List · Tier 1
Straight to Residence. Apply for residence once you secure a qualifying job or offer with an accredited employer and meet the occupation requirements.
Green List · Tier 2
Work to Residence. Generally requires at least 24 months of qualifying work in New Zealand, plus occupation, employment and visa requirements.
Study Master’s or Above
Complete a Master’s degree or higher in New Zealand, secure a job offer, then apply for permanent residency.
Study Master’s or above to residence
The best pathway depends on your qualifications, chosen occupation, employment opportunities and immigration eligibility. A New Zealand qualification or PSWV does not guarantee residence. Resident visa holders may generally apply for a Permanent Resident Visa after meeting the requirements, including holding residence for at least two years.
Plan your study and migration pathway with GMS
Choosing a qualification is more than an education decision: it can shape your post-study work opportunities and long-term residence options.
Our Licensed Immigration Adviser provides professional guidance on student visas, family eligibility, post-study work and residence pathways. We assess your education, background, finances and goals to identify a suitable strategy.
Book a consultation©.
