Work visas open for Indian students in New Zealand: When will post-study rules change? Find out who is eligible..

New Zealand has introduced significant changes to post-study work visa rules for Indian students. The New Zealand immigration authorities announced a new short-term graduate work visa, set to come into effect on November 16, 2026. Under this scheme, eligible international graduates will be granted the right to work openly for a period of six months.

This new visa will be particularly beneficial for students who do not qualify for long-term post-study work visas immediately after completing their studies. Its primary objective is to provide these students with a six-month window to search for and secure employment.

During this period, they will be able to transition to long-term options, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Another significant change will also take effect on November 16: students who complete an eligible Graduate Diploma at Level 7 of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentialing Framework will become eligible for a post-study work visa. These students must already hold a bachelor's degree.

**Requirement to Complete an Eligible Qualification**
To qualify for the six-month open work visa, a student must complete an eligible qualification at Level 5, 6, or 7 of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentialing Framework. The study must be full-time and involve a minimum of 24 weeks of study within New Zealand. English language courses, as well as foundational and participatory qualifications, are excluded from this scheme. Applicants must possess at least NZD 5,000 to cover their living expenses while in New Zealand.

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