New Zealand has introduced a new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa to help recent graduates gain valuable work experience in New Zealand.
Who is eligible?
This visa is available to graduates who hold an NZQCF Level 5, 6, or 7 qualification that was studied full-time for at least 24 weeks, and who do not qualify for the standard Post-Study Work Visa.
What does it offer?
Successful applicants receive 6 months of open work rights, meaning you can work for any employer in any role across New Zealand.
Important conditions
- The visa is non-renewable — it can only be granted once per person.
- You must not have previously held this visa.
If you think you may qualify for this visa or would like advice on your options after study, contact Walker Immigration for a consultation.
How to Maximise This Visa
This visa is a significant opportunity — particularly for those looking to pursue the Careforce Work to Residence pathway.
Students can now come to New Zealand to study an NZQF Level 5 course in Aged Healthcare (typically 40 weeks full-time), and upon completion be granted this 6-month open work visa. That window of open work rights gives graduates the time they need to secure employment and find an employer willing to sponsor them for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) — the stepping stone into the Careforce residence pathway.
Compared to traditional university degrees, NZQF Level 5 programmes in aged healthcare offer a much more accessible entry point:
- Significantly lower tuition fees than university degrees
- Lower academic entry requirements
- Shorter study duration — typically completed within a year
- Direct pathway into a high-demand, residence-eligible occupation
For the right candidate, this combination of study, post-study work rights, and employer sponsorship creates a clear and achievable route to New Zealand residence. Learn more about the Careforce Work to Residence Visa or get in touch with our team to discuss your options.