Table of Contents
Types of Work Visas in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a range of work visa categories to accommodate different qualifications, professions, and intentions. Below are the main types:
1. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
This is a points-based visa for skilled individuals under 55 who want to reside and work in New Zealand permanently. Points are awarded based on factors like age, qualifications, work experience, and whether there is a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
- Points Required: A minimum of 160 points to qualify.
- Advantages: Permanent residency with access to healthcare and education.
- Key Occupations: Healthcare, engineering, IT, teaching, and trades.
2. Essential Skills Work Visa
This visa is ideal for individuals with a job offer in New Zealand that matches a position on the country’s skills shortage list. This visa is typically employer-specific and valid for a limited time, though it can sometimes be renewed.
- Requirements: A job offer in a role where there is a shortage of local workers.
- Duration: Up to 5 years, depending on the skill level.
- Pathway to Residence: May be eligible for residence under the Work to Residence pathway.
3. Work to Residence Visa
This visa provides a temporary pathway to residency after working in an accredited job for two years. The individual can apply for a residence visa after two years of employment under this visa.
- Eligibility: Individuals with skills that match jobs on the Long-Term Skills Shortage List.
- Benefits: Provides a clear path to permanent residency after two years of work.
- Employer Requirements: Employer must be accredited by New Zealand Immigration.
4. Post-Study Work Visa
This visa allows recent graduates from New Zealand institutions to gain valuable work experience in the field of their study. It can act as a stepping stone for permanent residency, provided the work experience aligns with a skills shortage area.
- Validity: Up to 3 years, depending on qualification level.
- Eligibility: Graduate from a New Zealand tertiary institution with a recognized qualification.
- Pathway to Residence: Gain work experience and apply for permanent residency if eligible.
5. Specific Purpose Work Visa
This visa is designed for individuals coming to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event, such as sports tournaments, short-term projects, or business engagements.
- Duration: Varies based on the specific purpose.
- Eligibility: Individuals with a unique skill or role specific to the purpose or event.
- Renewal: Generally non-renewable as it is tied to the specific event or project.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility criteria vary by visa type, but there are common requirements across all New Zealand work visas:
- Age: Most visas have an age limit, with the Skilled Migrant Category capped at 55 years.
- Health: A health check is mandatory to confirm the applicant is free from medical conditions requiring prolonged treatment.
- Character: Police certificates are required to verify the applicant has no criminal background.
- Skills and Experience: Qualifications and work experience relevant to the job offered.
- English Proficiency: Most visas require a minimum level of English proficiency (IELTS or other approved tests).
- Job Offer: Some visas, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa, require a confirmed job offer.
Application Process
The application process differs by visa type but generally involves the following steps:
- Research and select the appropriate visa type.
- Gather the necessary documents, including identification, health, and qualification records.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for points-based visas like the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
- If selected, complete the visa application through the Immigration New Zealand website.
- Pay the application fees and submit biometrics if required.
- Await the processing and decision from Immigration New Zealand.
Required Documents
- Passport: Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay.
- Job Offer Letter: Confirmed job offer from a New Zealand employer (if applicable).
- Qualifications: Certified copies of educational certificates and transcripts.
- Health Certificate: A medical certificate and chest x-ray (if required).
- Police Clearance: A police certificate from each country where the applicant has lived for more than 12 months.
- English Language Test: Results from an approved English test (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL), if required.
Processing Time and Cost
Processing times and fees can vary. Below is a general guide:
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: NZD 3,310, takes approximately 6-12 months.
- Essential Skills Work Visa: NZD 495, processing within 1-3 months.
- Post-Study Work Visa: NZD 495, takes around 1-2 months.
Settling in New Zealand
Once granted a work visa, prepare for settling into New Zealand:
- Accommodation: Explore rental options in cities or suburbs, keeping cost and proximity to work in mind.
- Banking: Open a bank account to manage finances; ANZ, BNZ, and Westpac are popular options.
- Healthcare: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s healthcare system, which includes public and private options.
- Transport: New Zealand has efficient public transport networks in major cities, and owning a car is common in rural areas.
- Education: Public education is free for children up to age 19, and New Zealand has a reputable higher education system.
Official Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family to New Zealand on a work visa?
Yes, many work visas allow family members to accompany you. They may need to apply for dependent visas.
What is the English language requirement?
Most work visas require English proficiency, typically IELTS 6.5 or higher, but check individual visa requirements.
Are there any age limits?
The Skilled Migrant Visa has a maximum age limit of 55 years, but other visas may not have age restrictions.