Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced new work visa options for international graduates, set to be introduced in late 2026.
The update includes:
- A new Short Term Graduate Work Visa
- An extension of Post Study Work Visa eligibility
New Short Term Graduate Work Visa (6 Months)
A new Short Term Graduate Work Visa will be introduced for graduates who do not qualify for a Post Study Work Visa.
This visa will provide up to 6 months of open work rights, giving graduates time to:
- Find employment
- Transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Who is eligible?
To apply, graduates must:
- Hold a NZQCF Level 5 – 7 qualification
- Have studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks
- Not have previously held a Post Study Work Visa or Short Term Graduate Work Visa
The qualification must:
- Be completed in New Zealand
- Not be an English language, foundation, or bridging course
- Not already make them eligible for a Post Study Work Visa
Key conditions
Short Term Graduate Work Visa holders must work for an employer and cannot be self employed or run a business. This visa cannot be extended or granted more than once, and applications must be submitted within 3 months of a student visa expiring. Applicants must also show they have at least NZD $5,000 to support themselves, and cannot support partners or dependent children for visas.
Post Study Work Visa eligibility extended
The Government has also announced an important update to the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV).
From late 2026, eligibility will be extended to graduates who:
- Complete a full time Graduate Diploma (Level 7) in New Zealand
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (from New Zealand or overseas)
Visa duration
The visa will be granted for:
- The length of time spent studying the Graduate Diploma,
- Up to a maximum of 1 year
Important to note
- You can only be granted one Post Study Work Visa
- Previous PSWV holders are not eligible again, even at a higher level
- PSWV holders can support partners and dependent children, if requirements are met
What this means for international students
These changes provide more flexible options for graduates. The new Short Term Graduate Work Visa offers a pathway to stay in New Zealand and secure employment, even if a PSWV is not available.
At the same time, extending PSWV eligibility to Graduate Diploma holders creates a clearer route into skilled work and longer-term visa pathways.
How Greenstone Immigration can help
Understanding post study work options can be complex, especially with new visa categories being introduced.
Greenstone Immigration’s 9 Licensed Immigration Advisers can help students:
- Understand which visa option is best after study
- Check eligibility for the Post Study Work Visa or Short Term Graduate Work Visa
- Plan a pathway from study to work to residence
- Support transitions to AEWV and longer-term visas
If you are an international student nearing graduation, now is the time to start planning.
Contact Greenstone Immigration today to explore your options.
Licensed Immigration Adviser