Can I get PR if I study in New Zealand?

Yes, students who Study in New Zealand can apply for permanent residency, but with certain conditions. Studying in New Zealand has gained some momentum among the Indian students who are interested in pursuing their higher studies in a foreign location. New Zealand is one of the destinations where all the international students, including those from India, find a suitable place to study and thrive in their respective fields of study. The kind of quality of living New Zealand provides is an opportunity to live in this country as a permanent resident after the studies. But how can any international student do so? Let’s discuss.

Prior to Applying for a Permanent Residency in New Zealand for Indian Students

The process to study in New Zealand is the first step in getting a permanent resident visa for the Indian students. Apply for admission to a course from the “green list,” and get a student visa to stay in New Zealand as the initial step in getting permanent residency. When an international student has completed their studies, they can apply for a post-study work visa. 

This visa allows the individual to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years, working in a relevant field depending on their graduation degree. However, the total duration of the stay permit depends on the qualification. Also, the international students who study in New Zealand and hold a bachelor’s degree can also apply for this temporary visa but only under certain conditions and show that they can contribute to the New Zealand economy.

Different Routes to Get a Permanent Residency in New Zealand

There are different ways one can apply for a permanent visa to stay permanently in New Zealand. The following three ways are the most common pathways to get a permanent resident visa in New Zealand for an international student:

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

After a student gets done with their Study in New Zealand for Indian students and holds a post-study work visa, they can apply for a skilled worker visa. It will require them to accumulate a points system based on their age, work experience, qualifications, and proof of the job from a skill-based industry.

Employer-accredited Visa

An employer can also nominate an individual (from student to employer) through the route of Employer Accreditation and Talent Resident Visa pathway. Employers can nominate if they are accredited by Immigration New Zealand (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment).

Straight to Residence Visa

This is an uncommon pathway, but international students who finish study in New Zealand in a course from the “green list” can apply for a Straight to Residence visa. Green list gives a number of occupations which are in high demand all over New Zealand. The student (who is now a professional) must be working in a demanding field, such as nursing, engineering, or information technology.

Requirements to Get a Permanent Residency in New Zealand for Indian Students

• Character and health certificates

• A valid passport

• Passport-size photographs

• Master’s degree (level 7)

• Good English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or european equivalent)

• Age should be below 56

• Studied full-time (at least 30 weeks)

• Proof of job offer

• Proof of present residence permit

• Proof of relevant work experience

• Number of points (for skilled migrant visa applicants)

• Proof of sponsorship (through relation category of visa)

• Proof of commitment to live in New Zealand (if applicable)

Conclusion

Students who are choosing to study in New Zealand can apply for permanent residence in New Zealand after they have completed their studies. There are different ways one can apply for permanent residence in New Zealand, but there are certain conditions that they must meet and follow the practical steps as per requirements from the New Zealand government. International students, including those who are from India, can also apply for a Family Visa category where a family member (a relative, sibling, parent or spouse) will sponsor you to get permanent residence in New Zealand.

If you wish to apply for admission at a desired university in New Zealand and want to learn more about getting permanent residency, get in touch with Education Vibe right now. They guide students through the process of applying till students are in their desired country. Contact them and register your application.