What qualifications are needed for a Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand?

New Zealand is expanding opportunities for international students to work in the country after completing their studies. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has updated the eligibility rules for the Post-Study Work Visa, which will take effect from late 2026. These changes clarify which qualifications allow graduates to apply and the types of jobs they can take.

Who can apply

The Post-Study Work Visa is now available to a wider range of graduates. Applicants must have completed a full-time qualification in New Zealand or, in some cases, a bachelor’s degree overseas. The eligible qualifications include:

• Graduate Diploma (NZQF Level 7) – Completed full-time in New Zealand.
  
  
• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degrees (NZQF Levels 7–10) – Studied full-time for at least 30 weeks in New Zealand.
  
  
• Non-degree Qualifications (NZQF Levels 4–7) – Full-time qualifications on the approved list of eligible programs.
  
  

These changes mean more students, including those completing diplomas and graduate diplomas, can gain work experience in New Zealand directly related to their studies.

Jobs must relate to qualification

For non-degree qualifications at Level 7 or below, the job taken must align with the area of study. For example:

• Engineering Diplomas or Graduate Diplomas (Levels 6–7) – Graduates can work as civil, electrical, electronic, or mechanical engineering technicians, project managers, or telecommunications engineers.
  
  
• Construction and Quantity Surveying Diplomas (Levels 6–7) – Jobs include project builder, quantity surveyor, or construction project manager.
  
  
• Agriculture Diplomas (Levels 4–5) – Graduates can work as dairy or livestock farmers.
  
  
• Automotive Certificates (Level 4) – Roles include automotive electrician or diesel motor mechanic.
  
  
• Teaching Qualifications – If approved by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, graduates can apply for early childhood, primary, or secondary teaching positions.
  
  

This ensures graduates gain relevant work experience that matches their educational background, supporting both personal career growth and New Zealand’s labour market needs.

How to confirm your eligibility

Students should check whether their qualification is on the official list of approved programs for a Post-Study Work Visa. INZ provides detailed guidance, including knowledge requirements for each qualification and the related jobs they prepare graduates for.

Graduates who plan to work in regulated professions, such as teaching or engineering, may need additional registration or certification. For instance, engineering graduates require certification from Engineering New Zealand to meet benchmarks for Chartered Professional Engineer status.

The expanded eligibility rules reflect New Zealand’s approach to linking education and employment. By allowing more graduates to work in roles relevant to their studies, the government aims to retain international talent and strengthen critical sectors like engineering, construction, teaching, agriculture, and automotive services. This creates a clear pathway for students to transition from study to professional work in the country.