New Zealand has unveiled a new six-month work visa aimed at international graduates as part of wider changes to its post-study work system designed to better align immigration settings with labour market needs.
In a statement on New Zealand Immigration’s website on Monday, effective November 16, 2026, eligible international students completing certain qualifications in New Zealand will be able to apply for a Short-term Graduate Work Visa, which grants six months of open work rights after their studies.
The government says the visa is intended to provide a short bridge into employment.
The agency described it as a way to “give graduates time to find employment and transition into longer-term options such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa.”
“To qualify, applicants must complete an eligible qualification at NZQF Level 5 to 7 after at least 24 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand. They must also show they have at
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