How to get PR (Permanent Residency) in New Zealand after Study?

A New Zealand PR visa is issued by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). This legal document allows you and your family to settle in the country. Many Indian students choose NZ for higher education each year. Due to good job opportunities and modern facilities, many want to stay.

The common question is how to get PR in New Zealand after finishing your studies. It is important that you understand difference between a Resident Visa and a Permanent Resident Visa. Getting PR after studying means you can work indefinitely in New Zealand. You can also receive social welfare benefits and vote.

Most Indian students over 18 apply for a New Zealand student visa. After two years of study, candidates wish to know how to get PR in New Zealand. The time frame for visa validation can be complex. This guide will help you learn about NZ PR and its benefits. We cover the application steps.

New Zealand PR Process

After the successful completion of a degree from any of the universities of New Zealand next step is to apply for the correct type of visa. This depends on job opportunity in hand. New Zealand PR process is not complicated at all. Figure out your needs and eligibility. Majorly, there are two types of Permanent residency in New Zealand. Below, we have mentioned the details:

• Post-Study Work VISA (Open): This visa has flexible options for students who have completed their course but are still looking for a job. This visa guarantees your stay in the country for 3 years to give you an opportunity to find a job related to your field of study or research. In the meantime, you are allowed to work in any field to support your livelihood in New Zealand.
• Post-Study Work VISA (Employer Assisted): This visa, on the other hand, is not flexible with the type of job you opt for after study. Providing a window of two years, this visa gives you a chance to find a specific job role with a specific employer. Please keep in mind that you should apply for this visa within three months of the expiration date of your student visa.

How to Apply for New Zealand PR From India

Before applying for New Zealand PR from India, make sure you are eligibile for it. Both NZ student visas and permanent residency (PR) are applied for through the official Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website Check out every requirement and be prepared for it. Now follow steps mentioned below to complete application process:

• Login to RealMe account or create a RealMe account for yourself
• Fill up correct details in application form
• Upload all required documents at portal
• Pay NZ PR visa application fees online

NZ visa authority will email you to share update.

New Zealand Permanent Residence Visa

Almost every student wants to get Permanent Resident Visa after studying in NZ. Unlike Resident Visa, a NZ PR visa grants you the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. No conditions on your re-entry. In 2026, the pathway to residency has become even more streamlined with specific routes for skilled workers, tradespeople, and Green List occupations, allowing you to settle permanently once you have demonstrated a commitment to the country.

If you are a student who want to study and then get PR in 2026, here are popular PR courses in New Zealand.

Key Features & Eligibility of NZ PR Visa (2026 Updates)

New Zealand PR Visa: Basic Requirements (2026)

Here are basic eligibility to qualify for a PR Visa:

• Age should be under 55 years
• Show score cared of English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL
• Medical and police clearance certificate
• A job or job offer is mandatory to apply for PR visa
• Prove genuine intent to stay in New Zealand long term

New Zealand PR Points System

You can apply for New Zealand visas by directly applying to the New Zealand Government. This is comparatively cheaper than getting in touch with agents or the visa bureau. In order to judge your eligibility, the government has formed a PR points system in which points are allotted under the following heads:

• Employability: 60 points for current skilled employees for over a year, 50 for people looking for a job/working for less than a year
• Work Experience: Ranges from 10 points for 2 years up to 30 points for 10 years, plus bonus points for benefits and growth appraisals in your work experience
• Qualifications: 50 points for a Bachelor’s Degree or any other major Diploma qualification, and 55 for a Master’s or Doctorate Degree
• Family Ties: 10 points for close family members in New Zealand
• Age: Maximum of 30 points for 20-29 years up to a minimum of 5 points for 50-55 years of age

Securing 160 points gets you selected for ITA (Invitation To Apply) for a visa. The minimum submission criteria would be 100-135. However, it is not certain that this shall guarantee an ITA.

How to Get PR in New Zealand?

PR VISA, the application for which costs 190 NZD, can be obtained in New Zealand based on the following categories:

• Skilled Migrant Category: Submit EOI and await selection. If approved, submit your documents. Application process will take only 10 days.
• Family Category: PR is available for spouses, parents, or dependents sponsored by NZ citizens or residents for living together.
• Business/Investor Category: Apply under Investor or Entrepreneur. Approval totally depends on NZ Immigration's discretion.

Before applying for permanent residency in New Zealand, you need to have this information handy to understand your requirements and apply for the appropriate VISA. Good luck with your application!