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Open work visa to be granted to offshore students impacted by COVID-19

To support international students impacted by COVID-19, the Government has granted a 12-month open work visa by special direction.

17 February 2023
1 minute read

It is granted to people who held a Post Study Work Visa (PWSV) but were not able to use it due to New Zealand’s COVID-19 border restrictions that came into force in March 2020.

This 12-month open work visa will allow eligible people to be able to enter New Zealand between 30 March and 29 September 2023, and will give them the ability to pursue work opportunities for 12 months from entry.

More information on eligibility criteria, family members, and travel are in the section: 
Open work visa for former PSWV holders