New Zealand is introducing a new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa from 16 November 2026, giving eligible international students an additional opportunity to gain work experience after completing their studies. The new visa will allow graduates to stay and work in New Zealand for up to six months while searching for employment and exploring longer-term work opportunities.
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced this new visa pathway to provide more options for international graduates who complete eligible Level 5 to Level 7 qualifications but do not qualify for the existing Post Study Work Visa.
For Indian students planning to study in New Zealand, this change could create additional opportunities after graduation. However, students should understand the eligibility criteria, financial requirements and work restrictions before selecting a course.
If you are planning to study in New Zealand, explore the New Zealand student visa options for Indian students to understand the study and visa application process.
What Is the New Zealand Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?
The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa is a new temporary work visa introduced by Immigration New Zealand for eligible international graduates.
It is designed for students who complete certain New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) Level 5 to Level 7 qualifications but do not qualify for a Post Study Work Visa.
The visa provides up to six months of open work rights. During this period, graduates can work for an employer in New Zealand, search for suitable employment and explore other work visa options.
Applications will open on Monday, 16 November 2026, through Immigration New Zealand’s Enhanced Immigration Online platform.
New Zealand Graduate Work Visa 2026: Key Highlights
Here are the important details of the new visa:
| Visa Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa name | Short-Term Graduate Work Visa |
| Application opening date | 16 November 2026 |
| Visa duration | Up to 6 months |
| Eligible qualification | NZQCF Level 5 to Level 7 |
| Minimum study duration | 24 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand |
| Financial requirement | NZD 5,000 |
| Work rights | Open work rights |
| Application deadline | Within 3 months after the relevant student visa expires |
| Previous visa restriction | Must not have previously held a Post-Study Work Visa or Short-Term Graduate Work Visa |
| Extension | Cannot be extended |
| Application method | Enhanced Immigration Online (ADEPT) |
Who Is Eligible for the New Zealand Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?
Not every international student graduating from a New Zealand institution will automatically qualify. Applicants must meet specific qualification, study duration, financial and immigration requirements.
1. Complete an Eligible Level 5 to Level 7 Qualification
Applicants must successfully complete a qualification between Level 5 and Level 7 of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).
The qualification must not make the applicant eligible for an existing Post Study Work Visa.
English language courses, foundation programmes, bridging qualifications and micro-credentials are not eligible.
2. Complete at Least 24 Weeks of Full-Time Study
Students must complete at least 24 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand.
The study duration includes examination preparation and examinations. However, main holiday periods, repeated unsuccessful papers and credits transferred from another qualification do not count towards the required study period.
Students must also successfully complete the qualification recorded on their student visa.
3. Show at Least NZD 5,000 in Available Funds
Applicants must demonstrate access to at least NZD 5,000 to support themselves during their stay in New Zealand.
Acceptable financial evidence can include a recent bank statement showing the applicant’s name and account balance. Screenshots of bank accounts are not accepted as evidence.
4. Apply Within Three Months of Student Visa Expiry
Applicants must apply within three months after the end date of the student visa associated with their completed qualification.
Students should carefully check their visa expiry date and prepare their documents in advance to avoid missing the application deadline.
5. Meet Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
Immigration New Zealand may request a medical examination, chest X-ray or police certificates, depending on the applicant’s circumstances and immigration history.
6. Must Not Have Previously Held Certain Graduate Work Visas
Applicants who have previously been granted a Post-Study Work Visa or a Short-Term Graduate Work Visa are not eligible for this new visa.
Students whose studies were supported under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme must also obtain written approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Education New Zealand.
What Work Rights Will Graduates Receive?
The new visa provides up to six months of open work rights.
During this period, eligible graduates can:
Work in any legal job for an employer in New Zealand.
Search for suitable employment opportunities.
Gain professional experience after completing their studies.
Explore a possible transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), if they meet the requirements.
However, some restrictions apply.
Visa holders must work under an employment agreement or contract for services. They cannot operate a business as an owner or provide commercial sexual services.
The visa also allows study for up to three months in any 12-month period, subject to its conditions.
Can You Bring Your Spouse or Children on This Visa?
Short-Term Graduate Work Visa holders cannot include their partner or dependent children in their visa application.
They also cannot support a partner for a work visa or dependent children for a Dependent Child Student Visa based on this visa.
However, family members may explore visitor visa options if they meet the relevant requirements. Partners may also apply for work visas independently, and dependent children may apply for student visas as international students.
Can You Extend the New Zealand Graduate Work Visa?
No. The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa cannot be extended, and an individual can only receive it once.
Graduates should use the six-month period carefully to search for employment and explore other eligible immigration pathways.
One possible option is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). However, applicants must meet the relevant employment, employer and immigration requirements.
The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa does not automatically lead to permanent residency or guarantee approval for another work visa.
Difference Between Post-Study Work Visa and Short-Term Graduate Work Visa
New Zealand will continue offering its existing Post Study Work Visa alongside the new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa.
Both options provide opportunities for international graduates to work after completing their studies, but they are designed for different groups of students.
| Comparison | Post-Study Work Visa | Short-Term Graduate Work Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Post-study employment | Short-term employment opportunity |
| Eligible qualifications | Specific eligible qualifications | Eligible Level 5–7 qualifications that do not qualify for PSWV |
| Duration | Up to 3 years, depending on qualification | Up to 6 months |
| Work rights | Depends on qualification and visa conditions | Open work rights |
| Financial requirement | Depends on applicable PSWV rules | NZD 5,000 |
| Previous visa restriction | Cannot receive a second PSWV | Cannot have previously held a PSWV or this new visa |
| Extension | Subject to applicable visa rules | Cannot be extended |
Students should check which post-study pathway applies to their chosen qualification before enrolling.
Another Important Update: Expanded Post-Study Work Visa Eligibility from November 2026
Alongside the new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa, Immigration New Zealand is also expanding Post-Study Work Visa eligibility from 16 November 2026.
Under the updated rules, certain graduates who complete an NZQCF Level 7 Graduate Diploma may qualify for a Post-Study Work Visa if they:
Complete the full Graduate Diploma through full-time study in New Zealand.
Hold a bachelor’s degree from New Zealand or overseas.
Remain enrolled in the Graduate Diploma for its full duration without relying on cross-crediting or recognition of prior learning.
Eligible graduates may receive a Post-Study Work Visa for the duration of their Graduate Diploma studies, up to a maximum of one year.
This update is particularly relevant for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are considering a Graduate Diploma in New Zealand.
Students should compare both visa pathways before selecting a qualification because the available post-study work options depend on the course and individual eligibility.
What Does the New Zealand Graduate Work Visa Mean for Indian Students?
The introduction of the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa could create additional opportunities for Indian students considering higher education in New Zealand.
Previously, graduates completing certain qualifications that did not meet Post Study Work Visa requirements might not have had this particular post-study work option.
The new six-month pathway provides eligible graduates with additional time to search for employment and explore other work visa opportunities.
Here is what Indian students should consider:
More post-study options: Eligible Level 5 to Level 7 graduates may have an additional work opportunity after completing their studies.
Employment opportunities: Graduates can use the six-month period to search for suitable jobs and gain professional experience.
Financial planning: Students must demonstrate access to NZD 5,000 in available funds.
Course selection: Choosing an eligible qualification is important because not every programme provides access to this visa.
Long-term planning: Students interested in building a career in New Zealand should understand the requirements for the Post Study Work Visa and Accredited Employer Work Visa.
A six-month work visa should not be the only reason to select a particular course. Students should also consider qualification levels, career opportunities, tuition fees and long-term education goals.
How to Apply for the New Zealand Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?
Applications will open on 16 November 2026 through Immigration New Zealand’s Enhanced Immigration Online (ADEPT) platform.
Eligible applicants should follow these general steps:
Check whether their New Zealand qualification meets the Level 5 to Level 7 eligibility requirements.
Confirm that they have completed at least 24 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand.
Arrange evidence of at least NZD 5,000 in available funds.
Prepare their passport, qualification certificate or academic transcript and other supporting documents.
Check their student visa expiry date and ensure the application is submitted within the three-month deadline.
Complete the online application through Immigration New Zealand’s official platform.
Upload the required documents, pay the applicable visa fee and submit the application.
Applicants should review the latest official instructions before submitting their applications.
Plan Your New Zealand Study Journey with SWEC Visa Consultant
New Zealand’s new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa offers an additional opportunity for eligible international graduates to gain work experience after completing their studies.
However, choosing the right qualification and understanding the applicable post-study work options are important before making an education decision.
If you are planning to study in New Zealand, SWEC Visa Consultant can help you understand study options, university admissions, documentation and the student visa application process.
Our team provides study abroad guidance for students in Ahmedabad and Surat who want to explore international education opportunities.
Connect with our study abroad consultants in Ahmedabad and Surat to discuss your New Zealand education plans and understand the latest visa requirements.
You can also contact SWEC’s visa experts for guidance on your study abroad plans.
Disclaimer: Immigration rules and eligibility requirements are subject to change. This article is for general informational purposes and should not be considered legal or immigration advice. Always verify the latest requirements with Immigration New Zealand before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the New Zealand Short-Term Graduate Work Visa launch?
The new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa will open for applications on 16 November 2026. Eligible international graduates can apply through Immigration New Zealand’s Enhanced Immigration Online platform.
2. How long can I stay in New Zealand on the new Graduate Work Visa?
The visa allows eligible graduates to stay and work in New Zealand for up to six months. It cannot be extended, and each eligible person can receive it only once.
3. Can Indian students apply for the New Zealand Graduate Work Visa?
Yes. Indian students may apply if they complete an eligible Level 5 to Level 7 qualification in New Zealand, study full-time for at least 24 weeks and meet the other immigration requirements.
4. How much money is required for the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?
Applicants must demonstrate access to at least NZD 5,000 to support themselves during their stay in New Zealand.
5. Can I apply for permanent residency after receiving this visa?
The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa does not directly provide permanent residency. However, eligible graduates may explore other immigration pathways if they meet the relevant requirements.
6. Can I bring my spouse or children on this visa?
You cannot include your spouse or dependent children in the application or support them for a work or dependent child student visa through this visa. They may explore other visa categories if they independently meet the requirements.
