Post-Study Work Visa Duration for Masters in Australia?

Yes, it is possible to transition from a Post-Study Work Visa to a Work Visa in New Zealand after your post-study work visa expires. The path to a work visa in New Zealand largely depends on your situation, including the type of job you secure and the visa category you apply for.

Key Steps and Options:

1. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa

• This is a pathway to permanent residency in New Zealand, and it’s a common route for international students who want to stay and work in New Zealand after their Post-Study Work Visa ends.

• Eligibility: To qualify for the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, you must have a job offer from an employer in New Zealand for a skilled occupation that is included on New Zealand’s Essential Skills in Demand list, or be working in a job that meets the skill requirements.

• Points System: You’ll be assessed through a points-based system, considering factors like:

o Age

o Work experience

o Job offer

o Qualifications

o English language proficiency

• Steps: You can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), and if your points meet the required threshold, you may be invited to apply for residency.

2. Essential Skills Work Visa

• This is a temporary visa for people who have a job offer in an occupation that is in demand in New Zealand.

• Eligibility: Your job must be listed on the Skills Shortage List, or the employer must show that they could not find a New Zealand citizen or resident for the role.

• Duration: The visa is typically issued for one to five years, depending on the skill level of the job and other factors like the location and market demand.

• Job Offer Requirement: You need to have a valid job offer from a New Zealand employer who is willing to sponsor you.

3. Post-Study Work Visa Extension

• If your job is classified as skilled and aligns with the Essential Skills Work Visa, it may be possible to extend your Post-Study Work Visa or switch to the Essential Skills Work Visa.

• If your employer has a long-term need for your skills and your job is on the Skills Shortage List, this can increase your chances of securing a work visa.

4. Accredited Employer Work Visa

• If you are offered a job with an Accredited Employer (a company approved by Immigration New Zealand), you may be eligible for an Accredited Employer Work Visa. This visa is designed to make it easier for skilled workers to come to New Zealand.

• Employer Accreditation: The employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand, which simplifies the process for you to apply for a work visa.

5. Residence from Work Visa

• If you have been working in New Zealand on a temporary work visa (like the Essential Skills Work Visa) and you meet the requirements, you may be able to apply for a Residence from Work visa.

• This pathway is for people who are working in New Zealand and wish to transition to permanent residency.

6. Partner of a New Zealand Resident Work Visa

• If you are in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may be eligible for a Partner Work Visa, which can allow you to work while you live in New Zealand.

• Eligibility: You need to prove your relationship with your partner and meet the criteria set by Immigration New Zealand.

Key Points to Consider:

• Job Offer: One of the most important factors for transitioning to a work visa is securing a skilled job offer that meets the visa requirements.

• Employer Sponsorship: Many work visas, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa, require your employer to be a sponsor.

• Visa Timing: Be sure to apply for a work visa before your Post-Study Work Visa expires to avoid overstaying in New Zealand.

• Skill Level: The work visa options depend on the skill level of the job you secure. Higher-skilled roles are more likely to qualify for work visas and residency pathways.

Conclusion:

Yes, you can transition from a Post-Study Work Visa to a work visa in New Zealand, but it depends on factors such as securing a skilled job offer, the visa category you apply for, and meeting the relevant criteria. The Skilled Migrant Category, Essential Skills Work Visa, and Accredited Employer Work Visa are among the common options for international graduates to continue their stay and work in New Zealand after the post-study work visa expires.