Update from Immigration New Zealand – September 2026

Post-study work visas coming to enhanced Immigration Online

From 16 November 2026, applications for the new Short-Term Graduate Work Visa (SGWV) and the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) can be made through enhanced Immigration Online.  

Using enhanced Immigration Online makes it easier for students to track their applications, provides a more streamlined application experience, and reflects the latest visa requirements.  

International students must apply for a SGWV within 3 months of their student visa expiring. This means if a student’s visa expired before 16 August 2026, they will not be eligible for an SGWV when applications open on 16 November 2026. 

Applications for PSWV must be submitted within 3, 6 or 12 months of a student’s visa expiring, depending on what they studied and what visa they held.

From 16 November 2026, we will no longer accept PSWV applications made using the paper form. Applications submitted through a paper application form on or before 15 November 2026 will continue to be processed. 

Post-Study Work Visa eligibility extended from 16 November 2026

New Short-Term Graduate Work Visa launching on 16 November 2026

Summer peak for student visa applications: Encourage students to apply early

Immigration New Zealand is encouraging prospective international students to apply for their student visa at least three months before their course starts, particularly as application volumes increase ahead of the 2027 academic year. Students who apply late risk not receiving a visa decision before their intended travel or study start date.

Education providers and agents can help students avoid delays by encouraging them to:

• apply for the correct visa as early as possible
• submit a complete application with all required supporting documents
• follow the document requirements carefully and provide only information relevant to their application
• keep Immigration New Zealand informed if their circumstances change after applying.

This is particularly important for students from markets where application volumes are highest, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Please consider sharing Immigration New Zealand's student visa guidance with prospective and enrolled students to support timely and complete applications.

Apply early and be ready: Tips for a smooth student visa application