Work Visa Options in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a variety of work visas to meet different employment needs, whether you’re looking to explore temporary work, pursue long-term employment, or work toward residency. Here’s an overview of the primary work visa categories in New Zealand:

  1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
  • Purpose: For workers with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
  • Requirements: Job offer from an accredited employer, proof of necessary skills and qualifications, and meeting health and character criteria.
  • Duration: Typically valid for up to 3 years. May lead to residence through the Work to Residence pathway, depending on the role and salary.
  1. Post-Study Work Visa
  • Purpose: Designed for international students who have recently completed their studies in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Recent completion of an eligible qualification from a recognized New Zealand educational institution.
  • Duration: Valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the level of qualification. Allows graduates to work for any employer in New Zealand and gain valuable work experience.
  1. Working Holiday Visa
  • Purpose: For young people from eligible countries who want to travel and work temporarily in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Open to individuals aged 18-30 (or 18-35 for certain nationalities), with specific visa arrangements varying by country.
  • Duration: Usually valid for 12 months, with some countries allowing up to 23 months. Applicants must have sufficient funds for their stay and are permitted to work temporarily.
  1. Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa
  • Purpose: For skilled workers whose occupation appears on New Zealand’s Long Term Skill Shortage List.
  • Requirements: Job offer in a field on the shortage list, relevant qualifications, work experience, and meeting health and character standards.
  • Pathway to Residency: If working in New Zealand for two years, holders may be eligible to apply for residency under the Work to Residence pathway.
  1. Entrepreneur Work Visa
  • Purpose: For people who want to establish or buy a business in New Zealand.
  • Requirements: Business plan, sufficient investment funds, and evidence of business experience.
  • Duration: Initially issued for 12 months with a potential extension of 24 months to complete business setup.
  • Pathway to Residency: Eligible for residence through the Entrepreneur Residence Category if the business proves to be successful.

Key Considerations for Applying

  • Skill Shortages: Some visas require a job offer in a field where there is a shortage of skilled professionals.
  • Points System: Many residency and skilled work visas operate on a points-based system that considers qualifications, experience, and job offer criteria.
  • Visa Costs and Processing Times: These can vary depending on the visa type and the applicant’s circumstances. Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months.

If you’re interested in exploring any of these work visa options for New Zealand, don’t wait—Contact us today! Our team is here to guide you through the visa process, answer your questions, and help you take the first step toward a successful future in New Zealand.

Let’s make your New Zealand journey a reality!