New Zealand Sets Post-Study Work Visa Duration for Graduates

New Zealand Immigration has released guidance regarding the duration of the Post Study Work Visa for international graduates, effective in 2026. The maximum duration is set at three years for those who have completed a master's or doctoral level qualification in New Zealand, provided they studied for a minimum of 30 weeks.

This three-year visa is the longest available under the scheme and is not influenced by the length of the program completed, as long as the 30-week threshold is met. For graduates with qualifications at level 8 or below, the visa duration corresponds to the length of study indicated on their original offer of place.

For example, a program listed as 32 weeks would result in a 32-week work visa. Delays or failures during the study do not extend the visa duration, and immigration officials may seek clarification from educational providers if discrepancies arise between the offer of place and actual study duration.

This information is particularly relevant to Nigerian students and other African nationals considering education in New Zealand.