Prime Highlights
- New Zealand will award six Skilled Migrant Category points to eligible international students who complete a local master’s degree.
- Updated visa and work rules are expected to create a clearer path from study to skilled employment.
Key Facts
- New Zealand aims to grow its international education sector to NZD 7.2 billion by 2034.
- One public university reported a 44% increase in master’s enrolments following the policy announcement.
Background
New Zealand is introducing changes that could make it easier for international students to move from higher education into skilled jobs and, in some cases, permanent residency.
From August 2026, international students who complete a master’s degree in New Zealand will receive six points under the Skilled Migrant Category. To qualify, they must already hold a bachelor’s degree and complete at least 30 weeks of full-time study in the country.
The move is part of the government’s wider plan to grow the international education sector, which it expects to be worth NZD 7.2 billion by 2034.
The policy has already started attracting interest. One public university reported a 44% rise in mid-year master’s enrolments after the announcement, despite applications usually slowing during that period.
New Zealand has also updated its post-study work rules. Some students completing Level 7 Graduate Diplomas will have wider access to post-study work visas. Certain sub-degree graduates will be eligible for a six-month Short-Term Graduate Work Visa, helping them move into employer-sponsored work visas. Eligible tertiary students will also be allowed to work up to 25 hours a week while studying.
The changes create a clearer route from education to employment for international students. But universities are supposed to give accurate information about visa regulations, employment options, and residency options so that students know what their options are upon graduating.
The changes are going to help make New Zealand an attractive destination for study, and enable the country to attract skilled workers required by local employers.
