The type of visa you will need depends on the type of job offer you have and the length of time you wish to stay. There are so many types of visas to work in New Zealand that it can get quite overwhelming. Why not hire a relocation agency with years of experience to help? Our relocation experts can guide you every step of the way and are ready to give you practical advice and tips. Interested? Get in touch with us and let us show you how!

Certain visas have limited quotas that tend to be filled within a few days. Some are more expensive than others, while most will require you to pay an immigration fee. We will give you an overview of the different kinds of visas and give you a more detailed description of the most common ones.

The different kinds of visas may have different requirements and procedures, but in general, to apply for a work visa in New Zealand, you will need:

•  Proof of identity (passport or certificate of identity and two acceptable visa photographs);
• Proof of good health (completed health questionnaire, a chest x-ray, and a medical examination post-arrival);
• Proof of good character (completed character questionnaire, police certificates from your country of origin and any country where you’ve lived at least five years since turning 17);
• Proof of being bona fide.

All documents need to be either the original document or a certified copy.

To make sure that you are on top of your requirements, you will need to visit the official website and go over the guide for your particular type of visa. Have all your documents ready for submission before beginning your application process.

What is a Points Scale?

A points scale is a scoring system conducted by the New Zealand immigration authorities. If your type of visa is subject to a points scale, you will need to meet the minimum threshold of 100 points to be able to lodge an Expression of Interest. You can find an online simulation on the immigration website that allows you to check if you meet the requirements to apply.

Difficulties Obtaining a New Zealand Visa

Generally speaking, obtaining a work visa in New Zealand is difficult. The small quotas and tight deadlines make it extra challenging. You will typically have 59 days from the application date to apply. However, this timeframe is dependent on your nationality and the country from which you are currently residing. Vacancies during this time get snapped up quickly, so be sure that you have all your documents in order and follow the guidelines to the letter.

An applicant may try again the following year once the quota is reached for each country. Some countries have quotas as low as 50 people a year, while countries such as Canada, Japan, and the UK have unlimited.

Work Visa Application Process and Form

Online visa applications done through New Zealand’s Immigration website are easier and faster. Most of the process is done this way and it takes less than 15 minutes to complete the online form. You can also opt to submit all the required documents along with your application to the corresponding receiving center.

An eVisa is an electronic visa held in the immigration electronic system that replaces the sticker or stamp on your passport. You will be sent a notification should you be receiving one or if you need to send in your passport, depending on your type of visa.

The eVisa applies to the following visa types:
– Student Visa
– Work Visa
– Visitor Visa
– Group Visitor Visa
– Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
– Dependent Child Resident Visa
To be granted an eVisa, an applicant must create an online account on the immigration website and proceed with the rest of the application process there. It is a good idea to print the eVisa letter and to keep it with you while in the country.

Types of Temporary Work Visas

Keep in mind that all types of work visas in New Zealand are temporary, even those visas that can lead to a permanent residency. Be reminded that temporary visas are not geared towards getting permanent residence.

There are three main temporary work visas in New Zealand:

– Working Holiday Visa – has a duration of one or two years
– Essential Skills Work Visa – Depending on your skill level and the duration of your employment contract, lasts between 1 to 5 years
– Silver Fern Job Search Visa – has a duration of 9 months

Essential Skills Work Visa
If your job is listed on the Essential Skills in Demand list, then the Essential Skills Work visa is for you. You may work in the country for up to five years, but the duration may depend on your skill level. In order for a foreigner to fill a job position with this visa, the employer must prove that they could not hire a New Zealander.

How to Apply
– You must have a job offer for a full-time position, and a copy of your employment agreement
– Your employer must prove that a New Zealander could not be hired for the position
– You will need an “Employer Supplementary Form” describing your job offer (completed by employer)
– You will need a document proving the necessary qualifications (original or certified copy)
– Occupational registration(if applicable)
This type of visa only intends to fill temporary skill gaps. However, gaining enough points qualifies you for residence under the Skilled Migrant category.

Silver Fern Job Search Visa
A Silver Fern Job Search Visa requires applicants to have a genuine intent to search for a job in New Zealand. One must also be highly skilled and aged between 20 and 35. A quota of 300 people per year is set for this type of visa. The opening date for applications is rarely disclosed, and vacancies tend to be filled very quickly. It is a good idea to be extra diligent when it comes to checking the website for the application date. Once approved, you will be granted a period of 9 months in the country to search for a job. Applications are done entirely online.

How to Apply

– Must be genuinely looking for long-term skilled employment in the country
– Must have recognized qualifications, and should provide:
– an original or certified true copy of your qualification;
– evidence that your qualification was assessed as part of your application for occupational registration (if applicable);
– an International Qualifications Assessment (if applicable).
– Must have relevant work experience of at least two years in a related field.
– Must have sufficient funds (at least 4,200 NZD or 2,730 USD) to support oneself in New Zealand.
– Must have enough money to buy a ticket home.
– Must be able to speak English at an acceptable level.

Other Work Visa Types

Going online to do research is always a good idea. Knowing which visa to apply for can be quite confusing, so it’s best to know what’s available. New Zealand’s immigration website has a complete list of all its various work visas. Check your options and determine which type of visa is for you based on your age and country of origin.

Who Qualifies as a Skilled or Highly Skilled Worker in New Zealand?

Your qualifications, skills, and experience will fall on one of the five categories defined by the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).

You are considered a skilled worker if:
– Your occupation is listed in ANZSCO as level 1, 2 or 3, meaning it matches the description for that occupation, and that you are paid more than 25 NZD (16 USD) an hour or more (or the annual equivalent).
– Your occupation is listed in ANZSCO as level 4 or 5, meaning it matches the description for that occupation, and that you are paid more than 50 NZD (24 USD) an hour or more (or the annual equivalent).
– Your occupation has no corresponding description, but you are paid 50 NZD (24 USD) an hour or more (or the annual equivalent).

Visa Cost in New Zealand

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Self-Employment Visas

You are only allowed self-employment once you have been granted one of New Zealand’s self-employment visas.

Types of Visas that Allow for Self-Employment:
– Working holiday visa
– Entrepreneur Work Visa
– Investor’s Visa
– Post-Study Work Visa (for fresh graduates who recently completed a qualification in New Zealand)

Entrepreneur Work Visa

You will need an Entrepreneur Work Visa if you’re planning to set up your own business in New Zealand. It allows you to stay and work in the country for up to three years, the first year being allotted to set up your business. Take note that it is rather expensive: an applicant must pay 3,365 NZD (2,096 USD) for an application.

You will be needing all the usual visa requirements as well as meet the following conditions:
– Invest at least 100,000 NZD (62,279 USD) on a business
– Meet the minimum of 120 points on the Entrepreneur Points Scale
– Provide a detailed business plan
– Set up your business within 12 months
– Take part in an evaluation of the entrepreneur Work Visa Category

There are two types of visas that allow you to invest in the country, as well as grant you residence:
– Investor 1 resident visa: If you invest 10 million NZD (6,227,900 USD) in the country within three years, you and your family can live in New Zealand indefinitely.
– Investor 2 resident visa: If you are under 65 years of age and invest 3 million NZD (1,868,370 USD) within four years, you and your family can live in New Zealand indefinitely. However, only a total of 400 people may apply for this type of visa. and Live Abroad?

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Temporary and Permanent Residency Permits

Generally speaking, all visas in New Zealand are temporary until you are given a temporary residence permit, after which you are allowed to apply for a permanent residence.

However, not all temporary visas can lead to residence­—there are certain visa types that can be extended and eventually lead to residence.

Usually, to become a permanent resident you must not be over 55 years of age and must have worked in New Zealand for two years on a temporary visa.

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
– You may apply if you have the relevant skills and experience.
– You must be 55 or younger, a skilled worker, and can claim 160 points on INZ’s point scale for Skilled Migrant Expression of Interest.

Employees of Relocating Business Resident Visa
– You may apply for this visa if your employer’s business moves to New Zealand.

Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa
– You must have relevant skills and talents needed in New Zealand.
– You should be under 55 years of age and have a job offer for a full-time position for two years that pays 55,000 NZD (34,253 USD) a year. Your employer must be accredited by the Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Entrepreneur Work Visa
– For entrepreneurs who want to buy or set up a business in New Zealand
– You have invested at least 100,000 NZD (62,279 USD) in your business
– Can claim 120 points on INZ’s point scale for entrepreneurs
– Must meet the business plan requirements and can read, write, and speak English.

Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa
– This visa is for those who have skills needed in New Zealand
– This visa is applicable to those aged 55 and below with expertise listed in the skill shortage list.
– Family visas are not included in this visa.

While the process for each previously mentioned visa differs, the uniform requirement is an expression of interest which has your score point based on your age, work experience, qualification and a job offer if you have it. If you progress to the next step, then you will be invited to lodge a full application.

New Zealand Permanent Residency Benefits

If you are a permanent resident of New Zealand, then you will be able to live, work and study in the country. Your family, such as your partner and dependents, can also be included in your visa.

If you are interested in applying as a permanent resident of New Zealand, then you would have had to live in the country under a residence visa.

Additional requirements:
– Identification such as an ID card and two photographs
– Of good character and moral standing
– No violations on the conditions of your current visa

You must also show a Commitment to New Zealand.

The criteria for commitment can be shown in one of the following ways:
– You have spent significant time in New Zealand. As proof, you will have to present your travel records
– You have tax residence status. As proof, you would need a completed Confirmation of Tax Resident Status
– You have money invested in New Zealand. For this you must present bank documents or property titles
– You must have established a business in New Zealand that has contributed to its betterment
– You have proof that you have treated New Zealand as your home through employment, home ownership and others

The fees for a permanent residence visa depend on your country of residence and if you are applying within New Zealand or from your home country.

The general requirements are a filled up application form for a Permanent Resident Visa, and the supporting documents. For more details you can check New Zealand’s official immigration website.

A permanent residence visa costs 210 NZD (140 USD), while the immigration fee varies by region.