Top Tips for Finding Work After Studying in New Zealand | Study With New Zealand
After you finish your studies, you may be able to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years.
New Zealand offers post-study work rights for up to three years, depending on your study choices.
Post-study work visa
You can apply for a post-study work visa as soon as you gain your qualification.
- If you are studying a non-degree course at Level 7 or below, you will only be eligible for post-study work rights if your study is specifically noted under relates to one of the skills shortages in the Green List, and if you work in that occupation.
- If you are studying a bachelor’s degree or higher, your post-study work visa will have open work conditions, meaning your visa won’t tie to you a specific job, employer or location.
Post-study work visas will be granted for one, two or three years, depending on what qualification you gain and how long you studied in New Zealand. Post-study work rights for Masters and PhD students are for 3 years as long as the student has studied full time in New Zealand for a minimum of 30 weeks.
To find out more about working in New Zealand after graduating, see Immigration New Zealand’s information on staying to work after you’ve completed your studies.
Immigration New Zealand
Looking for work
Your tertiary institution may offer you assistance to find work, such as helping you with your job search or giving you tips on writing a CV.
You could also try talking to your teachers, lecturers, friends and neighbours – they may know of jobs that have not yet been advertised.
New Zealand Now
Writing a CV
A CV is a written overview of your qualifications and experience – in some countries it is called a resume. You will need to write a CV before you start applying for jobs. Careers New Zealand has some useful tips for writing a New Zealand-style CV and a letter of application.
Preparing for a job interview
A job interview can seem like a big challenge, especially if you’ve never done one before, or English is not your first language. Before you go to the interview, look at the organisation’s website to get a good idea of what they do. You will probably be asked why you have applied for the job, so practice your answer beforehand.
Careers New Zealand
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