Updated Open Work Visa Policy for International Students Pursuing Diplomas in New Zealand in 2024

🔥Updated Open Work Visa Policy for International Students Pursuing Diplomas in New Zealand in 2024

The New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) categorizes New Zealand's qualifications framework (NZQF) into 10 levels.

1️⃣ For Level 10 Doctoral Degrees and Level 9 Master's Degrees, full-time study in New Zealand for over 30 weeks allows graduates to apply for a 3-year post-study open work visa upon graduation.

2️⃣ For undergraduate degrees studied for 1-3 years (30-90 weeks), graduates will receive a post-study work visa ranging from 1 to 3 years, depending on the duration of their study in New Zealand.

3️⃣ Level 8 Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD) will qualify for a 1-year work visa, regardless of the field of study.

4️⃣ International students graduating from programs not mentioned above, such as NZQF Level 5, Level 6 Diploma, or Level 7 Graduate Diploma, will only be eligible for a post-study work visa if their qualification aligns with the occupation specified in their program of study and is listed on the latest "Green List" of occupations.

5️⃣ Applicants approved for a post-study work visa based on the "Green List" will be restricted to working in related occupations only.

6️⃣ The duration of the post-study work visa granted under this policy will be consistent with the length of the study program. The duration of the post-study work visa for international students is tied to the period of study within New Zealand, with exceptions for Masters and PhD graduates, who will continue to be eligible for a 3-year work visa.