New Zealand Post Study Work Visa Guide for Nepali Graduates 2026

Graduating from a New Zealand institution opens the door to the Post Study Work Visa — an open work visa that lets Nepali graduates gain real-world experience in New Zealand's labour market. This 2026 guide explains the duration you qualify for based on your qualification, how to apply, and how your post-study work experience feeds directly into the Skilled Migrant Category points system for permanent residence.

Graduating from a New Zealand institution opens the door to the Post Study Work Visa — an open work visa that lets Nepali graduates gain real-world experience in New Zealand’s labour market. This 2026 guide explains the duration you qualify for based on your qualification, how to apply, and how your post-study work experience feeds directly into the Skilled Migrant Category points system for permanent residence.

What Is the New Zealand Post Study Work Visa?

The New Zealand Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) is an open work visa granted to international graduates who have completed a qualification at a New Zealand institution. Unlike employer-sponsored visas, it is not tied to a specific employer or job — you can work for any employer, in any role, anywhere in New Zealand. This flexibility makes it an extremely valuable step on the pathway to permanent residence.

How Long Does the Visa Last?

The duration of your Post Study Work Visa depends on the level and location of your qualification:

• 1 year: Level 7 bachelor’s degree or Level 7 diploma from an institution outside Auckland (regional study incentive)
• 2 years: Bachelor’s degree (Level 7) completed in Auckland or any New Zealand city
• 3 years: Postgraduate diploma, master’s degree or PhD from any New Zealand institution

Students who studied in regional areas (outside Auckland) may be eligible for an additional year of work rights as part of New Zealand’s regional growth strategy.

Qualification Level vs Work Visa Duration vs SMC Points

How to Apply

The Post Study Work Visa application must be submitted before your student visa expires. You apply online through the Immigration New Zealand portal. You will need your graduation certificate or a letter from your institution confirming your qualification has been awarded (or is about to be awarded), your passport, and evidence of your student visa history in New Zealand.

If you are still waiting for your official graduation documents, many institutions will provide a completion letter that INZ accepts for the visa application.

From Post-Study Work to Permanent Residence

New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a points-based Expression of Interest (EOI) system. You need at least 160 points to be selected. Key points sources include:

• Age: maximum 30 points (aged 20–39 scores highest)
• New Zealand qualification: 40–70 points depending on level
• Skilled employment offer or current skilled employment: 50–60 points
• New Zealand work experience: additional points per year
• Partner’s qualifications and employment: bonus points

For most Nepali graduates who complete a bachelor’s or master’s in New Zealand and secure a skilled job, reaching 160 points is achievable within one to two years of graduation.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) as an Alternative

If you do not qualify for the PSWV or want to remain in New Zealand after your PSWV expires, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is an employer-sponsored option. Your employer must be accredited with Immigration New Zealand and demonstrate that no suitable New Zealand resident was available for the role. The AEWV can also earn SMC points and bridge the gap to residence.

Frequently Asked Questions