New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa & Green List Fast-Track Residency

Post-Study Work Visa Durations

Graduates from accredited New Zealand universities are eligible for open work rights based on their qualification level under Immigration New Zealand (INZ) guidelines:

• Master's & Doctoral Degrees (Levels 9 & 10): Up to 3 years of open work rights, regardless of whether the study was completed in Auckland or regional centers.
• Bachelor's Degrees (Level 7): Granted work rights matching the duration of study (typically up to 3 years).
• Postgraduate Diplomas (Level 8): Up to 1 year of post-study work rights, or longer if aligned with Green List shortages.

The Green List: Straight to Residence

New Zealand maintains a targeted Green List dividing in-demand roles into two fast tracks:

• Tier 1 (Straight to Residence): Civil engineers, software architects, surgeons, and veterinary doctors can apply for permanent residency directly without waiting for multi-year tenure.
• Tier 2 (Work to Residence): Eligible after completing 24 months of full-time employment with an Accredited Employer at or above the median wage threshold.