Post-Study Work & PR Pathway
Study in New Zealand
Explore the career and settlement options after your education in New Zealand.
Understand how the post-study work visa, skilled migration, and PR systems work for Indian and international students.
What Happens After You Graduate?
New Zealand offers a transparent and student-friendly immigration pathway. Once you finish your studies, you can apply for:
✅ A Post-Study Work Visa
✅ Full-time employment in your field
✅ Residency through the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
Post-Study Work Visa (Open)
| Qualification Level | Work Visa Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s or higher (Level 7+) | 3 years |
| Graduate Diploma (Level 7, non-degree) | 1 year |
| Level 4–6 Diplomas | 1 year (if studied in eligible region) |
✅ No job offer required to apply
✅ Work in any field with full-time rights
✅ Must apply within 3 months of course completion
Find a Job Related to Your Qualification
After receiving your Post-Study Work Visa, you can:
- Work full-time in any industry
- Apply for roles in skill shortage areas
- Use job offers to apply for PR under SMC or other employer-assisted categories
✅ Countrywide Visas helps with job-readiness and CV building
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) – Permanent Residency Route
The SMC visa is the most common PR pathway for graduates.
| Eligibility Criteria | Notes |
|---|---|
| Age | Below 56 |
| English Proficiency | IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
| Skilled Employment | Job offer aligned with qualifications |
| Points System | Based on age, job, education, NZ study, and experience |
| Health & Character | PCC and Medical required |
✅ You need a minimum number of points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Points System for PR (Quick Snapshot)
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| NZ Qualification | 40–50 |
| Skilled Employment | 50–70 |
| Work Experience | Up to 50 |
| Age (20–39 years) | 30 |
| Bonus: Study in Regional Area | +10 |
| Bonus: Job outside Auckland | +30 |
✅ Points thresholds are updated periodically by Immigration NZ
Green List & High-Demand Occupations
New Zealand prioritizes skilled migrants in:
- Information Technology (Software Engineers, Data Analysts)
- Healthcare (Nurses, Aged Care Workers, GPs)
- Construction & Infrastructure (Engineers, Surveyors)
- Teaching & Early Childhood Education
✅ If your qualification matches the Green List, PR becomes easier and faster
Residence Visa Options After Work Visa
| Visa Type | Who It’s For |
|---|---|
| Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa | For those working in a skilled role with points |
| Straight to Residence Visa | For select occupations (Green List Tier 1) |
| Work to Residence Visa | For those in Tier 2 roles for 2 years |
| Partner of a Worker | For spouses of work visa holders (open work visa) |
✅ Pathways vary by job type, employer accreditation, and location
Timelines from Study to PR
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Study | 1–3 years |
| Post-Study Work Visa | 1–3 years |
| Skilled Job Offer | Within work visa validity |
| PR Application & Approval | 6–12 months after job start |
✅ Many Indian students achieve PR within 3–5 years
PR Application Tips
✅ Choose a course aligned with Green List occupations
✅ Apply for jobs early during Post-Study Visa
✅ Track points and submit EOI as soon as eligible
✅ Stay updated with Immigration NZ policy changes
✅ Get support with documentation & declarations
Testimonials & Success Stories
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“I had a positive experience with the immigration services. Milan and Sahil Sharma (Case Manager) guided me through every step, clearly explaining documentation and providing timely updates. I'm grateful for their support and would recommend them to anyone needing immigration assistance.”
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