Changes to New Zealand’s Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) Enhance Flexibility for Graduates 

The New Zealand Government has introduced updates to the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) to provide greater flexibility for international students and align eligibility with workforce demands.

The New Zealand Government has introduced updates to the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) to provide greater flexibility for international students and align eligibility with workforce demands. 

New Eligibility for Master’s Students Progressing from Postgraduate Diplomas 

International students who complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) for 30 weeks and immediately transition to a Master’s degree, but fall short of the 30-week minimum enrolment in the Master’s program, can now apply for a PSWV based on their PGDip. 

Students who complete a qualification eligible for a PSWV and immediately pursue a higher-level qualification that does not meet PSWV requirements (such as shorter study duration) will have 12 months from the end of their student visa for the initial qualification to apply for the visa. 

For a full 3-year PSWV, students must meet the 30-week minimum study requirement in New Zealand for the Master’s degree. 

Expanded List of Qualifications Eligible for PSWV

The Government has made several changes to align PSWV qualifications with skills on the Green List, reflecting New Zealand’s workforce priorities: 

  • Secondary school teachers no longer need a Bachelor’s degree specializing in Science, Mathematics, Technology, or Pacific Languages to be eligible. 
  • Graduate Diploma holders meeting the Teaching Council’s registration requirements can now apply for a PSWV to work as Primary or Intermediate school teachers. 
  • The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6) with a strand in Mechanical Engineering has been added, making Mechanical Engineering Technicians eligible for PSWV. 

Eligibility Criteria Summary 

To qualify for a PSWV, applicants must: 

1. Hold an eligible New Zealand qualification studied full-time for the required minimum duration in New Zealand. 

2. Apply within the specified timeframe after completing the qualification. 

These changes aim to enhance flexibility for international students, better support their career goals, and align with New Zealand’s workforce needs in critical sectors like education and engineering. 

For guidance on PSWV applications, contact VisaSector for expert advice tailored to your circumstances!