New Zealand launches new short-term work visa for graduates
New Zealand has introduced a six-month work visa for international graduates. The new Short-term Graduate Work Visa aims to help recent graduates transition into employment. The government says this is part of a broader effort to align immigration with labour market needs. New Zealand is also expanding access to its Post Study Work Visa for some graduates.
What we know
- New Zealand's new six-month work visa is for international graduates who complete certain qualifications in the country.
- The visa is intended to help graduates find employment and transition to longer-term options such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
- Applicants must complete an eligible qualification at NZQF Level 5 to 7, study full-time for at least 24 weeks, have NZD $5,000 in available funds, and apply within three months of their student visa expiring.
- The visa can only be granted once per person, cannot be extended, and does not allow holders to run a business or support family members for visas.
- The government is also expanding the Post Study Work Visa for graduates with a Level 7 graduate diploma and a bachelor’s degree, with the visa length matching the time spent studying the diploma, up to one year.
