Good news has come for Indian students who want to study in New Zealand. The country has announced a plan to expand post-study job opportunities for international students.
Under the new plan, students will be able to get a work visa even after completing a six-month certificate course. Earlier, post-study work visas were mainly available only to students who completed bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
This change has been introduced to help meet the country’s workforce needs. In the past, certificate and diploma holders received work visas only in limited cases, and it was not very common.
The government says the new rules will make it easier for foreign students to find jobs in the country. Officials also believe this step will help stop skilled international students from leaving after completing their studies.
What is the Short-Term Graduate Visa?
According to the proposal from the New Zealand Government, a new short-term graduate visa will be introduced by the end of 2026.
This visa will allow international students to get open work authorization for up to six months. During this time, students can stay in the country and search for a job after finishing their studies.
If they find a job within those six months, they will be able to apply for a company-sponsored visa to continue working in New Zealand.
To qualify for this visa, students must complete a course that falls under Level 5 to Level 7 of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework. These levels include:
Certificates
Diplomas
Bachelor’s degrees
Graduate certificates
Graduate diplomas
Courses Covered Under Levels 5 to 7
Reports say that a Level 5 to 7 course must be studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks.
However, the course cannot be an English language program, foundation course, or bridging qualification. Most certificate courses generally last 24 weeks, or about six months.
Financial Requirement for the Visa
To apply for the work visa, students must show that they have at least $5,000 in funds.
The application for this visa can be submitted within three months after the student visa expires. Once approved, the visa also allows students to work under an employment contract while staying in the country.
