New Zealand is introducing a new six-month work visa for eligible international students who complete certain qualifications but do not qualify for the country’s existing Post-Study Work Visa.
The new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa will open for applications from November 16, 2026. It will give eligible graduates open work rights, allowing them to work for any employer while searching for a longer-term employment opportunity in New Zealand.
Who Can Apply For The New Visa?
The new visa is aimed at international students who complete an eligible qualification under the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
Applicants must have completed a Level 5, 6 or 7 qualification through full-time study in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks.
The qualification must not be an English-language, foundation or bridging programme. It must also be a qualification that does not already make the student eligible for the existing Post-Study Work Visa.
Six Months Of Open Work Rights
One of the key features of the new visa is that graduates will not need a job offer before applying.
Once approved, they will receive open work rights, allowing them to work for any employer in New Zealand for up to six months.
The purpose is to give graduates additional time to find suitable employment and potentially move to another work visa if they secure an eligible job.
The visa can be granted only once and cannot be extended.
Students Need NZD 5,000 In Funds
Applicants will also need to demonstrate that they have at least NZD 5,000 available to support themselves during their stay.
They will have to meet the relevant health and character requirements as well as other visa conditions.
Applications must be submitted within three months of the applicant’s New Zealand student visa expiring.
A Potential Pathway To A Longer-Term Work Visa
The six-month visa is designed as a bridge between education and employment.
After finding suitable employment, graduates may be able to transition to another work visa, including the Accredited Employer Work Visa, provided they meet the requirements of that visa.
This means the new route does not itself provide a long-term right to remain in New Zealand. Instead, it gives eligible graduates additional time to establish themselves in the country’s job market.
Post-Study Work Visa Rules Also Expanded
New Zealand is simultaneously expanding eligibility for its existing Post-Study Work Visa.
From November 16, graduates who complete certain Level 7 graduate diploma programmes and also hold a bachelor’s degree will become eligible under the revised rules.
The changes are intended to create more post-study pathways while aligning graduate immigration options with New Zealand’s skills requirements.
Important Dates For International Students
The new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa will become available on November 16, 2026.
International students whose student visas have expired before August 16, 2026, will not be able to apply when the new visa opens because applications must be made within three months of the student visa expiring.
Students planning to use the new route will therefore need to carefully track their visa expiry date and ensure they meet all qualification and financial requirements.
For international students, the new visa provides an additional opportunity to gain work experience in New Zealand after completing eligible courses, particularly for those who do not qualify for the longer Post-Study Work Visa.
Summary
New Zealand will launch a new six-month Short-Term Graduate Work Visa for eligible international students from November 16, 2026. Graduates with qualifying Level 5, 6 or 7 qualifications can receive open work rights without a job offer. Applicants need at least NZD 5,000 in funds and must apply within three months of their student visa expiring. The route can help graduates seek longer-term employment.
