Student Visa vs Post-Study Work: which New Zealand visa is right for you?
The Student Visa lets you study in New Zealand; the Post-Study Work Visa lets you stay and work afterwards and build experience toward residence.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Fee Paying Student Visa (Student Visa) | Post-Study Work Visa (Post-Study Work) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | For international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider. | For international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification. |
| Government cost | ~NZ$750 including levy | ~NZ$815 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks | ~4-6 weeks |
| Length of stay | Duration of the course, usually up to 4 years | Up to 3 years depending on qualification and where studied |
| Where to apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand | Online, from inside New Zealand |
| Work rights | Up to 20 hours per week in term, full-time in holidays | Work for any employer in any role (open work rights) |
| Pathway to PR | No direct path; graduates may move to a Post-Study Work Visa and then skilled residence. | Open work rights help meet skilled work requirements for residence pathways. |
Which is right for you?
Fee Paying Student Visa (Student Visa)
For international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider.
Full Student Visa guide →Post-Study Work Visa (Post-Study Work)
For international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification.
Full Post-Study Work guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Student Visa or Post-Study Work?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Fee Paying Student Visa (Student Visa) is the lowest at ~NZ$750 including levy. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Student Visa or Post-Study Work?
Indicatively Fee Paying Student Visa (Student Visa) is the quickest at ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Student Visa and Post-Study Work?
Fee Paying Student Visa (Student Visa) is for for international students enrolled in a full-time course at an approved New Zealand education provider. Post-Study Work Visa (Post-Study Work) is for for international graduates who want to work in New Zealand after completing an eligible qualification.