Careers advice
Short-Term Graduate Work Visa NZ guide for international graduates
Get the facts on NZ's 6-month Short-Term Graduate Work Visa, including who's eligible and how to find a job.
Last updated: 16 October 2026
What is the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa NZ?
Who is eligible for the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?
What are the rules and restrictions on this visa?
How does it compare to the Post-Study Work Visa?
| Feature | Short-Term Graduate Work Visa | Post-Study Work Visa (Expanded) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary qualification | Primary qualification | NZQCF Level 5, 6, or 7 diploma/certificate | NZQCF Level 5, 6, or 7 diploma/certificate | NZQCF Level 7 Graduate Diploma (with Bachelor's) or Degree | NZQCF Level 7 Graduate Diploma (with Bachelor's) or Degree |
| Visa duration | Visa duration | Up to 6 months | Up to 6 months | 1 to 3 years (depending on study level) | 1 to 3 years (depending on study level) |
| Work conditions | Work conditions | Open work rights (no business ownership) | Open work rights (no business ownership) | Open work rights | Open work rights |
| Partner visa support | Partner visa support | No | No | Yes (subject to standard PSWV rules) | Yes (subject to standard PSWV rules) |
| Lifetime limit | Lifetime limit | Granted once only | Granted once only | Granted once only | Granted once only |
| Maintenance funds | Maintenance funds | NZD $5,000 | NZD $5,000 | At least NZD $5,000 | At least NZD $5,000 |
How to land a job on a 6-month graduate work visa
Ready to kickstart your career in New Zealand?
Author
Other articles you might like
.jpg?fit=max&format=webp&quality=85)
