New Zealand is exploring more concrete pathways for Filipino students to eventually gain long-term residency, particularly those enrolled in high-demand fields, GMA News Online reported.
Education New Zealand (ENZ) Acting General Manager International Ben Burrows emphasized that the country’s current strategy involves a targeted digital campaign to promote education opportunities among Filipinos. This includes programs that align with New Zealand’s critical skill shortages.
Students who pursue studies in areas on New Zealand’s greenlist—namely civil engineering, agriculture, and education—may have stronger prospects for residency, though Burrows was quick to clarify that there are no guaranteed outcomes.
“There’s never a guarantee or promise,” Burrows stated, pointing out that post-study work rights and visa opportunities depend heavily on the student’s program and how long they stay. “Certainly, if they’re studying agriculture—that’s currently a skill shortage in New Zealand—and if they’re wanting to stay beyond their post-study work rights, then they have a greater chance of obtaining different visas that potentially could lead towards permanent residency.”
The campaign is part of a broader government initiative to align the country’s immigration goals with its international education offerings. Burrows said the approach not only benefits New Zealand’s workforce but also ensures Filipino students get value for their educational investment.
Education New Zealand will be launching a series of education roadshows in Manila, Bacolod, and Cebu from May 31 to June 7, 2025. These events aim to connect aspiring scholars with representatives from New Zealand universities and institutions, including immigration advisers who can walk them through the process.
“We believe we have a strong understanding of motivations from students from here in the Philippines. We know their key interests are graduate outcomes,” Burrows said, noting how Filipino students often prioritize employability and long-term career growth.
“We call our New Zealand qualifications the passport to global success,” he added. “Whether they return home or seek careers elsewhere, what matters is that they move on to meaningful opportunities. That’s what makes their time in New Zealand truly worthwhile.”
