Study in New Zealand

International students coming to study full-time apply for the Fee Paying Student Visa. Under current rules, this visa allows you to work part-time for up to 25 hours per week during term time. During official scheduled breaks, you can work full-time, provided your course is at least one academic year in length and worth at least 120 credits. Students pursuing a Master’s by research or a PhD hold unlimited working rights throughout their studies.

Once you have completed your studies, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), which allows you to live and work in New Zealand for up to 3 years (depending on the level of qualification you complete). This open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in New Zealand, giving you the flexibility to gain relevant professional experience without needing employer sponsorship.

The duration of your post-study work visa depends on the qualification level you complete. Graduates with a Level 9 Master's or Level 10 Doctorate can receive a three year post study work visa. Level 7 Bachelor's degree holders instead receive a visa matching the actual duration they studied (confirmed by their provider). For the Short-Term Graduate Pathway, a 6-month open work visa is available for graduates of eligible lower-level certificates who do not qualify for the primary post-study visa.

Relevant work experience may also help you qualify for residence through New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa or eligible Green List pathways.

Fee Paying Student Visa Key Facts

• Duration: Granted for up to 4 years, depending on the length of your study programme.
• Work rights: Up to 25 hours per week during term time; full-time during official semester breaks.
• Proof of financial means (2026 rates): You must show available living funds of NZD $20,000 per academic year (or NZD $1,667 per month for courses under one year), in addition to your tuition fees and funds for your return journey (approx. NZD $2,000).
• Proof methods: Personal savings (held 3 to 6 months), acceptable education loans, immediate family sponsorship, or the Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS).

Post-Study Work Visa Key Facts

• Duration: Up to 3 years for graduates completing a Bachelor’s degree Level 7, Master or PhD.
• Work rights: Unlimited open work rights for almost any employer or sector.
• Eligibility: Completion of an eligible full-time qualification at a recognised New Zealand institution. Must be applied for within 3 months of your student visa expiring (or 6 months if completing a PhD).