The New Zealand education system is amongst the best in the world
New Zealand ranks 7th for highest performing graduates – ahead of the US, Canada and England. The New Zealand government has strong quality assurance systems to ensure high-quality education at all levels of the education system, both public and private. If you study in New Zealand as an international student, education providers are responsible for making sure you are well informed, safe and properly cared for.
During your study, you can work part time (or even full time, if you are studying for a doctorate). After you finish your study, you may get a Post-study Open Work Visa for up to 3 years, depending on the length and the type of your qualification. If you want to know more about this, please book a consultancy session with our educational agent partner company Seven Seas Cultural Exchange for more information.
Obtaining New Zealand qualifications also helps you to claim points in the Skill Migrant Visa 6-point system, should you be interested in living in New Zealand permanently.
AFTER YOUR STUDY: Post-Study Work Visas
Students undertaking a qualification at bachelor’s degree and above, or relevant to an occupation on the Green List may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa. First, you need to apply for a post-study work visa and have it approved. The duration of the work visa will mirror the time you study in New Zealand, up to a maximum of three years (Master’s or Doctoral Degree may be granted for 3 years). While you are looking for a job in your field you are allowed to work in any job to support yourself. You are not bound to one employer only.
To be eligible you must:
- Have successfully completed a qualification in NZ that meets the post-study open work visa requirements
- Apply no later than 3 months after the end date of the student visa for that qualification (6 months for Doctoral degree)
- Provide evidence of minimum of NZ$5,000 available to maintain yourself during your stay in New Zealand
- You have not previously been granted a post-study work visa.
Finally: Residence Visa
After obtaining relevant work experience in New Zealand, you can potentially apply for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category. The points system sets a clear skill threshold for residence, but offers several ways for people to demonstrate their skill level. You must have at least 6 points to be eligible. You can claim points based on your qualifications, occupation, and income.
If you have a job offer for an occupation on the Tier 1 Green List and meet specific requirements, you may be eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa. If you have a job offer on the Tier 2 Green List, in the care work force or transport sector agreement and meet relevant requirements, you may apply for the Work to Residence Visa after working in New Zealand for 2 years.
If it is your plan from the outset to apply for a residence visa, then you need to think very carefully about the type of qualifications you want to obtain and the type of work experience you get. It is essential to align job opportunities with the qualifications obtained, especially for non-degree holders.
Whatever visa you apply for, you’ll need to meet health and character requirements.
