Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has confirmed that, from Monday 16 November 2026, more international graduates will be able to apply for a Post Study Work Visa (PSWV). Graduates who complete a Level 7 graduate diploma in New Zealand will be able to qualify, as long as they already hold a bachelor's degree. Who will be eligible To apply for a Post Study Work Visa based on a graduate diploma, you will need to: have completed a graduate diploma at NZQCF Level 7 have studied full-t

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is introducing a new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa from Monday 16 November 2026. It gives eligible international graduates 6 months of open work rights, so they can gain New Zealand work experience after finishing a qualification that does not lead to a Post Study Work Visa. Who can apply You will need to: hold a qualification at NZQCF Level 5 to 7 that you studied full-time for at least 24 weeks in New Zealand make sure the qualification is not

The latest changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa took effect on 24 August 2026. They add two new residence pathways and change how qualifications and wage thresholds are assessed. Trades and Technician pathway For people working in specified skill level 1 to 3 trades and technician occupations who: hold a relevant Level 4 or above qualification, and have at least 4 years of directly relevant experience gained after the qualification, including 1.5 years

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced on 8 August 2026 that the Parent Resident Visa selection process is changing. From 5 October 2026, a hybrid model will replace the current ballot-only system. How selection will work About 90% of expressions of interest (EOIs) will be selected in date order About 10% will be selected through a ballot The annual cap of 2,500 Parent Resident Visas each financial year stays the same If you already have an EOI in the pool Your EOI will move

Since 1 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has required police certificates to be provided upfront with student and other temporary visa applications, where a police certificate is needed. What has changed If a police certificate is required, upload it when you submit your application INZ will not usually contact applicants to request a missing police certificate Applicants from Fiji, Hong Kong and Israel can upload proof that they have applied, because those police cer

On 20 April 2026, INZ will introduce changes to employment conditions for people with open work visas. These changes are designed to provide clarity about what work is allowed under open work visas, helping migrants to better understand their rights and responsibilities. Clear and consistent visa conditions reduce uncertainty and support safer, fairer, and more compliant work practices for both migrants and employers. An open work visa lets you work for almost any employer, i

New Graduate Work Visa Options Coming to New Zealand (Late 2026) Immigration New Zealand has announced upcoming changes to graduate work visa options aimed at better connecting international graduates with New Zealand’s labour market and skill shortages. These changes introduce a Short Term Graduate Work Visa and broaden eligibility for the Post Study Work Visa, helping create clearer pathways from study to employment. Short Term Graduate Work Visa (Expected Late 2026) Inter

Update: Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Changes – Coming into Effect Late August 2026 Immigration New Zealand has released additional information about upcoming changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC). These updates are designed to help employers retain skilled workers and support New Zealand’s long-term economic growth. Here is a brief overview of the key changes: Trades & Technician Pathway Confirmed Applies to ANZSCO Skill Level 1–3 trades and technician roles Requ

Open work rights for partners of migrant workers | Immigration New Zealand Open work rights will be available to more partners of migrant...

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Changes to the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) | Immigration New Zealand Immigration NZ are making changes so that students who complete a...

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is moving the Permanent Resident Visa, Second or Subsequent Resident Visa and Variation of Travel...

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Important Points to Note: - Selections of expressions of interest (EOIs) for the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa will resume on 9...

Important Parent Resident Visa Category Points- -The Parent Resident Visa restarts on 12 October 2022. - INZ resumes selecting Existing...

NOTE: If you studied a non-degree level 7 or below qualification, and you applied for your Student Visa on or after 12 May 2022, this...

Details of Sector Agreements for specific AEWV occupations announced21 August 2022 The Government has announced details of the sector...

New Zealand's border reopens 1 August 2022 The New Zealand border has now reopened, with student and visitor visa applications now open....

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Reopening the New Zealand border The international border is reopening in stages for eligible travellers to enter New Zealand. Who can...