All international students who have graduated from New Zealand with a valid qualification can apply for the post study work visa (PSW). It is a one year visathat lets international students work for any employer in New Zealand. If you manage to find a job that is relevant to your stream of course then you can have your work visa extended for two years.

Who can apply

You must apply for the PSW visa within three months of the end date of the student visa. PhD students are allowed to apply up to six months after the end date of the student visa. To apply for the PSW visa, you must have successfully completed a degree qualification that would gain points under the ‘New Zealand Immigration Skilled Migrant Category’. 

How to apply

You can choose to apply through INZ online application portal, Immigration Online, or through the print form INZ1015.

You will need:

• Work Visa application form INZ1015
• Evidence that you have completed your qualification
• Bank statement showing a balance of minimum NZ$4,200
• Three months' bank statement
• Passport
• Two recent passport size

Meet Ritika, a graduate from India

Former AUT international student Ritika Bhargava has opened a chain of physiotherapy clinics, won a Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and represented New Zealand in power lifting.

Watch the video above to hear Ritika's story.

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