International students can work for a set amount of time after graduating in the nation where they finished their education with a post-graduation work visa. Since it gives them a chance to work, live, and apply for permanent residency in the country, this visa will be beneficial for international students. International students frequently choose New Zealand as their study abroad location, and the nation provides plenty of chances for those who want to remain and work there after graduation. On the basis of qualification, students in New Zealand are permitted to work for up to three years after finishing their studies under the post-graduation work visa program.
Here is how to apply for a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand.
Steps on Applying for a New Zealand Post-Graduation Work Visa
Step 1. Check Eligibility and Visa Type
You should confirm your eligibility and the particular visa type related to your circumstance before applying for a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand. Make sure you satisfy the English language competence standards, have a valid student visa, and have completed a qualifying qualification. Additionally, research the various post-graduation work visa options and choose the one that best fits your requirements. Some visas may require you to have an offer of employment, whereas others might let you look to be employed by any industry.
Step 2. Prepare the Required Documents
Getting a post-graduation visa in New Zealand requires you to gather the necessary paperwork after determining your eligibility and choosing the right visa type. This might include evidence of studies completed, a current student visa, a passport in good standing, the results of English language tests, and additional papers unique to your circumstance, such as a police clearance certificate or a work offer. Before beginning your application, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork available.
Step 3. Create an Immigration New Zealand Account
You must register on the Immigration New Zealand website in order to apply for a New Zealand post-graduation work visa. You’ll be able to do this to submit and monitor the progress of your application. Your entire name, birthdate, and contact information are among the primary pieces of personal data that you must submit.
Step 4. Submit Your Application
You can submit your application online once you have completed all of the necessary preparation. To prevent processing delays, Ensure to supply all the required data and paperwork. You may also be required to pay an application fee, depending on the type of visa you need and your particular situation. The most up-to-date fee schedule can be found on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Step 5. Wait for a Decision
The processing time for post-graduation work visas varies depending on the type and individual circumstances. According to the New Zealand Immigration website, the standard post-study work visa is up to 28 days, while the employer-assisted work visa is up to 50 days. Check the status of your application through your Immigration New Zealand account.
Documents Needed for a New Zealand Post-Graduation Work Visa
Here are the following requirements international students need to prepare:
| REQUIRED DOCUMENTS |
REQUIREMENT DETAILS |
| Evidence of academic completion |
When applying for a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand, you must present a copy of your academic transcript or degree certificate as proof that your studies are complete. |
| Student visa |
The current student visa must be valid for post-graduation work visa application. |
| Passport |
The passport must be valid for at least three months. |
| Results of an English language test |
International students must provide evidence of English proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL test results. |
| Police clearance certificate |
Applicants must provide this type of certificate from their home country or another country to work in certain occupations. |
| Job offer |
Evidence of a job offer from a New Zealand employer is required for post-graduation work visas. |
While individual employers may have varying standards, these are the minimum standards.
FAQs: Post-Graduation Work Visa Applications for New Zealand
What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Post-Graduation Work Visa for New Zealand?
An international student must have earned an eligible qualification, which must be at least a level 7 bachelor’s degree or higher, to be qualified for a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand. In addition, the study program has to be completed at an educational institution recognized by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and have a minimum duration of 30 weeks.
This might not just end here, furthermore, the applicant needs to have a valid student permit and satisfy the English language proficiency requirements in addition to the qualification and period of study requirements. IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5 is typically needed, though other exams might also be given approval.
It’s crucial to remember that there are various post-graduation work visa categories, and the requirements may change based on the particular visa category. For instance, some visas call for a job offer in a particular industry, while others allow applicants to seek employment throughout every sector.
What is the Process for Extending a Post-Graduation Work Visa for New Zealand?
The most crucial information is that candidates must fulfill eligibility criteria, have a job offer that is appropriate for their qualifications, and pass character and health conditions to extend a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand. To apply for an extension of a post-graduation visa in New Zealand, candidates must fill out an online application on the Immigration New Zealand website and submit supporting materials, such as documentation of their credentials and employment offer. They could also be asked to submit to a medical checkup and present a police certificate.
If you are unable to extend your post-graduation work visa, you might be qualified to apply for a different kind of visa, like a work visa or a visa for skilled immigrants. It’s important to carefully consider your alternatives and seek advice from an immigration expert if necessary because the qualifying requirements and application procedures for each of the visas will vary.
How Can You Find a Job in New Zealand as an International Student?
To find a job in New Zealand as an international student, you can look up job openings online, review job descriptions on recruitment websites, and network with possible employers by joining professional organizations or going to industry events. In order to get employment in New Zealand as an international student, networking is a useful technique.
The healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and hospitality sectors are in great demand in New Zealand. In addition, there is a lack of trained laborers in technology, trades, and agriculture.
Understanding your abilities and experience in relation to the New Zealand labor market is crucial which can open up many career doors for international students in New Zealand. So, don’t be late, Start your application for a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand now!
We hope this article on how to get a post-graduation work visa in New Zealand was helpful. Make sure to also check out our Available Programs and New Zealand Study Guide for different information on scholarships and universities across the globe!
