Key Takeaways:
- The Post Study Work visa allows graduates to stay in New Zealand for up to three years for practical work experience.
Eligibility includes health, character, valid visa status, completed qualification, and sufficient funds. Apply within set timelines post-study.
Required documents include verified identity, medical exams, police certificate, qualification proof, and evidence of funds; apply online or on paper.
What is a Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand?
The Post Study Work visa is designed to allow you to stay in New Zealand for up to three years after completing your studies. With this NZ work visa, you can gain practical work experience that aligns with your field of study, enhancing your professional journey. It’s an incredible opportunity for recent graduates to immerse themselves in the New Zealand job market and apply the skills they have learned during their academic programs.
Who is Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand?
What are the Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for a Post Study Work visa in New Zealand, you must meet several key criteria:
- Apply for the visa no later than three months after your student visa expires, or six months if you were granted a visa to complete a doctorate.
- Be in good health.
- Demonstrate good character.
- Show an intention to meet the visa conditions.
- Have completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand.
- Possess sufficient funds to cover your stay in New Zealand.
- Maintain a valid visa status while in New Zealand.
What Documents are Required for a Post Study Work Visa?
Identity Verification
Your identity must be verified with:
- A valid passport or certificate of identity, preferably the original document.
- Photos of your head and shoulders that meet New Zealand visa photo requirements.
Health Examination
If your stay exceeds one year on the Post Study Work visa, you are required to provide a chest x-ray and a medical examination as part of your application.
Police Certificate
For stays extending over two years, a police certificate is necessary. If you have previously provided one to Immigration New Zealand with another visa application, you do not need to submit it again.
Proof of Completed Qualification
You need to submit either:
- A copy of your qualification, or
- A letter or academic transcript from your tertiary education provider confirming completion of your qualification.
Evidence of Sufficient Funds
You must demonstrate adequate funds, specifically a minimum of NZD $5,000. Acceptable forms of proof include:
- Bank statements
- Credit card statements
- Bank drafts
- Travelers’ cheques
How to Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa Online?
Steps to Follow:
- Complete the Online Application: Access the application through Immigration New Zealand’s website and log in or create a RealMe account.
- Upload Necessary Documents: Scan your documents and upload them in PDF format along with applicable fees.
- Pay the Application Fee: Use a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay) to pay the fee. You’ll receive a confirmation email upon successful payment.
- Submit the Application: Once completed, submit your application. Wait for an email confirming the issuance of your eVisa, which you should print and carry when traveling to New Zealand.
Note: Immigration New Zealand will inform you if additional documents are needed after your application submission.
How to Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa on Paper?
Steps to Follow:
- Complete the Paper Application: Fill out the Work Visa Application (1015), ensuring all information is accurate. Attach the photos with your full name on the back.
- Book an Appointment with VFSGlobal: Schedule an appointment and you’ll receive a confirmation email along with a letter of appointment. The nearest visa application center may be in another country, so plan accordingly.
- Pay Required Fees: Pay the application fee along with any courier and VAC service fees during your appointment.
- Submit the Application: Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to submit your documents. Immigration New Zealand will notify you via email once your application is processed.
Note: If you are in New Zealand when your current visa expires, you will receive an Interim visa until your Post Study Work visa is granted.
What Conditions Apply to a Post Study Work Visa?
What Must You Do Once You Obtain the Visa?
- Entry Permission: Fill out an arrival card given to you on your way to New Zealand. Present your passport and arrival card to immigration officers at the New Zealand border.
- Multiple-Entry Travel Conditions: Ensure you have valid multiple-entry travel conditions, so you can enter and leave New Zealand freely.
- Employment Flexibility: If you have studied a degree level 7 or above qualification, you can work in almost any job for any employer.
- Study Limitations: You can study for up to three months in any 12-month period.
- Mandatory Exit: Leave New Zealand before your visa expires.
What are the Fees for a Post Study Work Visa?
Fee Structure:
- Online Application: NZD $700
- On Paper Application: Ranges from NZD $625 to $860
- VAC Service Fee: NZD $45 to $75
- Courier Fee: NZD $12 to $100
These fees are non-refundable. For the most updated information on fees, refer to the New Zealand Fees Guide.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Post-Study Work Visa?
The typical processing time for a Post Study Work visa is 38 days. You will receive an update regarding your application status within this timeframe.
How Long Can You Stay on a Post-Study Work Visa?
You can stay in New Zealand for up to three years with a Post Study Work visa. The duration depends on the level and length of your qualification.
Can You Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa More Than Once?
You are allowed to apply for a Post Study Work NZ visa only once. Multiple applications for this visa type are not permitted.
Can You Work on a Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand?
Indeed, you can work in New Zealand if you completed a degree level 7 or above qualification. You can work for almost any employer in nearly any job. If you completed a non-degree level 7 or below qualification, you need to ensure that your job is related to your field of study. However, if you applied for your Student Visa on or before 11 May 2022, the Post Study Work Visa allows you to work for any employer regardless of your qualification being on the Qualifications Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa list.
Can You Study While on a Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand?
Yes, you can study in New Zealand while holding a Post Study Work visa, but only for up to three months in any one-year period. This provision allows you to take additional short courses or training required by your employer.
Can You Bring Your Family to New Zealand on a Post Study Work Visa?
You can bring your family members with you by supporting their visa applications. Eligible family visas include:
- An open work visa for your partner
- A visitor visa for your partner
- A visitor visa for your dependent children
- A student visa for your dependent children, allows them to study as domestic students without paying international fees.
Final Thoughts
The New Zealand Post Study Work visa presents an invaluable opportunity for international graduates. It helps bridge the transition from academic life to professional employment, offering a pathway to gain rich practical work experience. If you meet the eligibility criteria and carefully follow the application guidelines, the process is straightforward. Keep in mind the conditions attached, the required documents, and the fees involved to ensure a smooth and efficient application process. For current regulations and detailed guidelines, visit the official Immigration New Zealand webpage.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Post Study Work Visa: A visa that allows international students to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years after they complete their studies, helping them gain practical work experience related to their field of study.
Eligibility Criteria: The specific requirements that must be met to qualify for a particular visa. For the Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand, this includes applying within a specific timeline after your student visa expires, being in good health, demonstrating good character, and more.
Identity Verification: The process of proving your identity as part of a visa application. For the Post Study Work Visa, this includes providing a valid passport or certificate of identity and appropriate photos.
Proof of Completed Qualification: Documentation that confirms you have successfully completed an eligible course of study in New Zealand, such as a copy of your qualification or a letter from your education provider.
Sufficient Funds: Financial evidence is required to prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand. For the Post Study Work Visa, this means showing at least NZD $5,000 through bank statements, credit card statements, bank drafts, or travelers’ cheques.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand allows graduates to stay up to three years post-study. Requirements include timely application, health check, good character proof, funds, and completion of a recognized course. The process involves online or paper application, document submission, and visa conditions like employment flexibility. Stay updated at Immigration New Zealand’s official site.
— By VisaVerge.com
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