For many families, post-study work rights tip the country decision as much as tuition. Here's the 2026 snapshot.
Australia — Temporary Graduate (subclass 485)
Bachelor graduates: about 2 years. Master's: usually 2–3 years depending on the qualification. Regional study can add extra time. Work limit during study: 48 hrs/fortnight.
Canada — PGWP
Up to 3 years for programs of 2+ years at eligible DLIs. Open work permit — any employer. Strong PR bridges via Express Entry CEC and PNPs.
United Kingdom — Graduate Route
Flat 2 years for bachelor's/master's completers, 3 for PhD. No job offer required, no salary threshold during the route — switch to skilled work later.
New Zealand — Post-Study Work Visa
Level 7 bachelor's+: up to 3 years depending on qualification. Employers can hire graduates in most roles without labour-market tests.
USA — OPT & STEM OPT
12 months of Optional Practical Training for F-1 graduates, extended by 24 more months for STEM-designated degrees. Employer-sponsored H-1B is the usual next step.
How to choose
Optimising purely on stay-back duration ignores employability: Canada rewards permanent-settlement intent; Australia favours regional campuses; the US pays highest but is lottery-driven. Book a counselling session — we model total outcomes per country against your profile.
Last reviewed: 15 April 2026. Rules and requirements change — confirm current details on official government websites.