In case its lovely monikers as “God’s own country” and the “Paradise of the Pacific” aren’t enough to pull you in, New Zealand’s excellent standard of living, cultural diversity and consistent ranking as the world’s most peaceful country should push it to one of the top spots on your list of ideal international study and/or work destinations. The country has long been recognised for its outstanding education system, with all eight of its universities enjoying consistently high ranks in the QS World Rankings and Times Higher Education Rankings. Considering the matchless quality of life and abundance of opportunities New Zealand has to offer, it comes as no surprise that many international students desire to stay, work, or look for a job after completing their studies.
International students in New Zealand can apply to extend their stay in the country by applying for a Post Study Work Visa. If you’re considering New Zealand as your study destination, here are the eligibility requirements you need to take note of should you wish to apply for one.
According to the New Zealand Government’s official immigration website, you are eligible for a Post Study Work Visa if:
Those who applied for their Student Visas on or before 11 May 2022 are also eligible for a Post Study Work Visa as long as their qualifications are deemed acceptable. Below are the acceptable qualifications for a Post Study Work Visa for those who applied by this date.
To be acceptable:
For those who were studying or had applied for a student visa by August 8, 2018, your Post Study Work Visa qualifications are acceptable if you studied the English language; English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) qualifications are not acceptable. If you want to work for longer, you may be able to apply for another Post Study Work Visa, but only if you complete another qualification in New Zealand that:
Find more information about the New Zealand Qualifications Framework levels on the New Zealand Qualifications Authority website.