Learn about the 2024 changes to New Zealand’s Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), including eligibility updates for PGDip holders, Master’s degree students, and the new qualification list.
Discover the 2024 changes to New Zealand’s Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), including eligibility updates for Master’s degree holders and qualification requirements for PSWV applicants.
New Zealand Announces Changes to Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) for International Students
In a move designed to provide greater flexibility for international students, the New Zealand government has announced significant changes to the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), starting in 2024. These updates aim to ensure that students who complete a Master’s degree following a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) are not penalized and can still access PSWV benefits.
New Eligibility Rules for PSWV after PGDip
Under the previous system, students who completed a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) for 30 weeks and then transitioned to a Master’s degree but did not study the Master’s degree for 30 weeks were ineligible for a Post Study Work Visa. Now, these students can apply for the PSWV based on their PGDip enrolment, making it easier for them to gain work experience in New Zealand following their studies.
This change will allow students to have greater flexibility in their course of study while maintaining eligibility for a PSWV. This update aims to improve opportunities for international students and support New Zealand’s economic growth.
12-Month Grace Period for PSWV Applicants
Students who complete an eligible qualification for PSWV but then pursue a higher-level qualification (that is ineligible for PSWV) will now have a 12-month window from the end date of their student visa for their initial qualification to apply for a PSWV. This extension offers students more time to stay in New Zealand and gain work experience before transitioning to a new visa status.
Requirements for a 3-Year PSWV
To qualify for a 3-year Post Study Work Visa, international students will need to meet specific requirements, including the completion of at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand within the Master’s degree program itself. This ensures that students who have completed significant study in New Zealand can benefit from the longer work visa duration, enhancing their career prospects.
Updated List of Qualifications Eligible for PSWV
In addition to the eligibility changes, there are updates to the qualifications list for the Post Study Work Visa to align with the Green List. These adjustments are designed to reflect the evolving needs of New Zealand’s workforce.
- Teaching Qualifications: PSWV applicants who qualify to teach at secondary school no longer need a Bachelor’s degree specializing in Science, Mathematics, Technology, or Pacific Languages.
- Teaching Council Registration: Applicants with graduate diplomas who meet the Teaching Council’s registration requirements will now be eligible for a PSWV to work as Primary or Intermediate school teachers.
- New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6): The Mechanical Engineering strand of this diploma has been added to the eligible qualifications list, allowing Mechanical Engineering Technicians to apply for a PSWV.
These changes ensure that the PSWV system is better aligned with New Zealand’s educational and workforce requirements.
A More Flexible PSWV for International Students
The changes to the Post Study Work Visa in 2024 bring much-needed flexibility for international students completing Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s degrees in New Zealand. These updates provide students with a clearer and more accessible path to work opportunities in the country, supporting both their professional growth and New Zealand’s economic development.
