Working in New Zealand during and after your degree
Working during your degree
25 hours a week during term (raised from 20 in November 2025), full time in scheduled holidays. Wages: NZ$23.50 an hour adult minimum wage (2025).
Working after you graduate
Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 3 years for bachelor's degrees and above; shorter for some diplomas. Apply within 3 months of your visa expiry (6 months for PhD). Work for any employer.
Graduates of a bachelor's degree or higher get a Post-Study Work Visa of up to three years, open to any employer. Master's and PhD graduates in skilled roles score well under the Skilled Migrant Category, and partners of postgraduate students can usually get open work visas.
Sectors hiring graduates
| Sector | Demand |
|---|---|
| Construction and engineering | High |
| IT and software | High |
| Healthcare and nursing | High |
| Agriculture and agritech | Medium to high |
| Education | Medium |
| Tourism and hospitality | Medium |
Subjects that lead to these jobs
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How long can I stay in New Zealand after studying?
Up to three years on the Post-Study Work Visa if you complete a bachelor's degree or higher. Some lower-level qualifications qualify for shorter periods only if they are on the Green List.
How much money must I show for a New Zealand student visa?
NZ$20,000 a year for living expenses (NZ$1,667 a month for shorter periods) plus evidence that tuition is paid or funds to pay it.
Are New Zealand degrees recognised internationally?
Yes. All eight universities sit in the QS top 500 and qualifications are recognised across the Commonwealth, the US and Europe.