Obtaining a New Zealand post-study visa allows you to stay back in the country and work after completing your master’s degree. There are many benefits international students stand to enjoy when they choose New Zealand as their study destination and then make up their minds to stay back and live in the country. From the beautiful landscape to ranking as part of the top safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index, to the amazing culture and food and then the friendly policies that enhance the quality of the lives of the people living in the country. In addition to all these benefits, it is also easy to get a visa in this country compared to other countries. In this article, we’ll explore the processes involved in obtaining a New Zealand post-study visa. Do not forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more related articles.
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Benefits of obtaining a New Zealand Post Study Visa
Below are some of the benefits of obtaining a post-study work visa in New Zealand:
- Holders of a New Zealand Post Study work visa can live in the country for up to three years and work for any employer. Proper maximization of this opportunity paves the way to apply for permanent residency.
- Holders of a New Zealand post-study work visa can bring their families along to the country. Your partner can also apply for a work visa and your children can attend schools for free in the country.
- Additionally, obtaining a multiple-entry visa in New Zealand allows you to travel in and out of the country as required.
How to apply for a post-study visa in New Zealand
Below is a step-by-step process on how to apply for a New Zealand Zealand:
- Before you start the application process, it is important to note that you apply within three months after completing your studies in the country. If you just completed your doctorate then you can apply within six months after your completion.
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- Applicants must ensure that they have all the required documents. These documents include:
- Valid passport
- Education certificate
- English certificate
- A completed INZ 1015 work visa application
- Cover letter
- A copy of your academic transcript
- Copy of your proof of character
- Medical certificate
NOTE: You might also be asked to provide other documents to finalize the process.
- Additionally, the application fee is NZ$495.
- The application for the visa is online. However, prospective applicants will first create a RealMe account. To begin the process, visit the New Zealand Immigration website to begin.
Your rights under the post-study work visa
Holders of the post-study visa can do the following:
- Can stay for 1-3 years in the country
- Can work for any employer
- Can bring their partner and dependent along
- Can be employed in any role except the New Zealand commercial escort service
- Can study for three months or as directed by their employers
- If they have a multi-entry visa, they can travel to and from New Zealand when necessary
- Their partners can also apply for a work visa.
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Qualifications to apply for a post-study work visa in New Zealand
To be qualified to apply for a New Zealand post-study visa, you must meet the requirements below:
- Applicants must have studied in the country. Your qualification must be at least a level four on the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) framework.
- Applicants who studied on levels four to six must ensure that the degree spanned at least 60 weeks in the country. Alternatively, applicants may have achieved two qualifications of at least 30 weeks of study, with their second qualification being higher than the first.
- However, it is important to note that students who come to study English in the country will not be eligible for a work visa.
What is the duration of a post-study work visa?
The duration of a post-study is dependent on the location of your study. However, the criteria are listed below:
- Level 7 bachelor’s degree can apply for up to three years.
- Level 7 graduate diploma can apply for one year, or two years to gain registration with a local body, such as teachers requiring two years to get their full practicing certificate.
- Levels 4, 5, and 6 can apply for a one-year visa.
- If you study outside of Auckland, you can apply for longer periods.
- Level 7 bachelor’s degree can apply for up to three years.
- Level 7 graduate diploma can apply for two years if you complete the degree before 31 December 2021, otherwise, it’s one year.
- Levels 4, 5, and 6 qualifications can apply for up to two years if the course is completed before 31 December 2021, otherwise one year.
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Can I bring your family along?
Yes, of course. You can bring your family along with you on a post-study work visa. Additionally, your partner can also apply for a work or visitor visa. If you have children they are also entitled to apply for a visitor or a student visa.
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