Study in New Zealand | Visa & Work 2026

WHY NEW ZEALAND

Why students choose New Zealand

1

New Short-Term Graduate Work Visa

From 16 Nov 2026, Level 5–7 graduates who don't qualify for the main post-study visa get 6 months of open work rights.

2

Post Study Work Visa now includes Grad Diplomas

From late 2026, Graduate Diploma holders (Level 7) with a prior bachelor's also qualify — a real widening of eligibility.

3

25-hour work week during study

Increased from 20 hours, giving students more room to manage living costs.

4

Safe, compact, high standard of living

Consistently ranks among the safest countries for international students.

POPULAR FIELDS

What Indian students study in New Zealand

Hospitality & Tourism Management Agriculture & Agribusiness IT & Computer Science Construction Management Healthcare & Nursing Engineering Technology Business Early Childhood Education

WHERE TO STUDY

Popular universities & institutions

A starting shortlist — your OEVS counsellor will match these against your budget, scores and career goals.

UN

University of Auckland

AU

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

UN

University of Otago

VI

Victoria University of Wellington

MA

Massey University

LI

Lincoln University

AR

Ara Institute of Canterbury

Institutions listed for reference and course-matching purposes. University admission and any scholarship/partnership terms are set by the institutions themselves.

VISA & POST-STUDY WORK

Visa pathway for New Zealand

Student Visa Student Visa

New Zealand's student visa covers enrolment at an NZQA-recognised institution, with defined part-time work rights.

Full-time courses of at least one academic year (120 credits, 2 semesters) qualify for work rights
Up to 25 hours/week during term, full-time during scheduled breaks
Master's by research and PhD students get unlimited work rights
Immigration NZ has moved to an upgraded 'Immigration Online' digital system

Post-Study Work Post Study Work Visa

New Zealand's main post-study route — and it's expanding in late 2026 to cover more qualification levels.

Up to 3 years for Level 7+ (bachelor's/postgrad) qualifications
From late 2026: Graduate Diploma (Level 7) holders also qualify, if they already hold a bachelor's degree
New: Short-Term Graduate Work Visa (from 16 Nov 2026) — 6 months open work rights for Level 5–7 grads who don't otherwise qualify
Must apply within 3 months of your student visa expiring (6 months for Doctoral graduates)

2026 Policy Update — Confirm Before You Apply

Immigration New Zealand is expanding post-study options from late 2026 (official start date 16 November 2026): a brand-new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa (6 months, for Level 5–7 graduates not otherwise eligible) and wider Post Study Work Visa access for Graduate Diploma holders who already hold a bachelor's degree. Both require NZD 5,000 in support funds and cannot be combined — plan your qualification level with this in mind from the start.

BUDGET PLANNING

Cost snapshot

NZD 22,000–35,000/yr

Tuition (varies by course)

NZD 20,000/yr

Living costs (INZ requirement)

2026 benchmark

About NZD 750

Student visa fee (confirm with INZ)

Indicative figures for planning only — actual tuition and living costs vary by city, institution and lifestyle. Use our free Cost of Study Calculator for a personalised estimate.

TIMING

Intake calendar

February Intake

Primary intake

Widest course choice across universities and institutes.

July Intake

Secondary intake

Good backup for students who miss February deadlines.

Nov Intake

Select programs

Offered by some polytechnics and shorter diploma courses.

FREE TOOLS

Start with a free check

Eligibility Checker

Cost Calculator

University Shortlist

Profile Strength Scorer

FAQ

New Zealand — Frequently Asked Questions

When are the intakes in New Zealand?

February is the primary intake with the widest course choice, and July is the secondary intake. Application deadlines vary by institution, so apply several months ahead.

How many hours can I work while studying in New Zealand?

Students on full-time courses of at least one academic year can work up to 25 hours per week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Master's by research and PhD students get unlimited work rights.

What is the new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?

From 16 November 2026, Level 5–7 graduates who don't qualify for the main post-study visa can get 6 months of open work rights. It requires NZD 5,000 in support funds and cannot be combined with the Post Study Work Visa.

How long is the Post Study Work Visa?

It runs up to 3 years for Level 7 and above qualifications. From late 2026, Graduate Diploma (Level 7) holders who already hold a bachelor's degree also qualify. Apply within 3 months of your student visa expiring, or 6 months for Doctoral graduates.

How much does it cost to study in New Zealand?

Tuition typically ranges from NZD 22,000 to 35,000 per year. Immigration New Zealand requires about NZD 20,000 per year for living costs. The student visa fee is roughly NZD 750, and a Post Study Work Visa fee applies later. Fees change, so confirm current amounts with Immigration New Zealand.

Is New Zealand safe for international students?

New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries for international students, with a compact, high-standard-of-living environment. Support services vary by institution, so ask your counsellor about pastoral care at your shortlisted universities.

Get started

Ready to start your New Zealand journey?

Book a free session with our counsellors — no obligation, honest advice on your best-fit universities and visa pathway.

1
We review your profileAcademics, English score, budget and goals.
2
A counsellor reaches outTo discuss universities and visa options for New Zealand.
3
You get a clear planShortlist, intake timeline and next steps.

+91 8655849625 Chat on WhatsApp oevsmumbai@oevs.com.au

Study in New Zealand — free consultation

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