New Short-Term Graduate Work Visa Launching 16 November 2026

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is introducing a new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa to provide an additional work pathway for eligible international graduates who have studied in New Zealand.

The new visa will be available for applications from 16 November 2026 through Enhanced Immigration Online (ADEPT).

What is the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa?

The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa will provide eligible graduates with up to 6 months of open work rights in New Zealand.

This will give graduates time to look for suitable employment and explore longer-term work options, including potentially transitioning to an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

Applicants must submit their application within 3 months of the end date of their student visa for the qualification they are using for the application.

Who may be eligible?

To qualify, applicants must generally:

• Hold an NZQCF Level 5 to 7 qualification.
• Have studied full-time for at least 24 weeks in New Zealand.
• Hold a qualification that does not make them eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa.
• Not have completed an English language, foundation or bridging qualification.
• Have at least NZD $5,000 available to support themselves.
• Meet applicable health requirements.
• Not have previously been granted a Short-Term Graduate Work Visa or Post-Study Work Visa.
• Meet the other applicable INZ requirements.

Important application timeframe

Applications open on 16 November 2026.

Eligible applicants must apply no more than 3 months after the end date of their student visa for the qualification they are using to apply.

It is important for students to check their student visa expiry date and eligibility requirements before planning to use this pathway.

Work conditions

The visa allows holders to work in New Zealand for up to 6 months while they look for employment and consider longer-term work options.

Work must be undertaken for an employer under an employment agreement or contract for services. Operating a business as an owner is not permitted.

Only one Short-Term Graduate Work Visa

An individual can only be granted one Short-Term Graduate Work Visa.

The visa cannot be extended, and a second Short-Term Graduate Work Visa cannot be granted.

Partners and dependent children

Short-Term Graduate Work Visa holders cannot support their partner for a work visa or their children for a Dependent Child Student Visa based on their relationship to the visa holder.

However, partners and dependent children may have other visa options depending on their individual circumstances.

How to apply

From 16 November 2026, applications will be submitted online through Enhanced Immigration Online (ADEPT).

Need help with your post-study visa options?

At Auckland South Immigration Consultants (ASIC), we can help you understand your available New Zealand immigration options and prepare your application.

📍 Unit 101, 17 Putney Way, Manukau, Auckland
📞 021 168 7230 | 0800 168 472
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Official Immigration New Zealand information

For the latest requirements, eligibility criteria and application instructions, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website:

👉 Short-Term Graduate Work Visa – Immigration New Zealand

👉 INZ Announcement – New Short-Term Graduate Work Visa launching 16 November 2026

This article is based on information published by Immigration New Zealand on 10 September 2026. Immigration requirements and visa conditions can change. Applicants should check the latest information from Immigration New Zealand before applying.