New Zealand Work Visas
New Zealand offers various work visa options for individuals looking to work temporarily or permanently in the country. Each visa category has specific requirements and benefits. At Sunrise Immigration Services, we can help you navigate these options to find the best pathway for your circumstances.
Key Work Visa Categories
Accredited Employer Work Visa
This is the main work visa for skilled workers. To be eligible, you need:
- A job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
- The skills and qualifications required for the role
- To meet health and character requirements
This visa allows you to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on your job offer.
Work to Residence Visas
These visas provide a pathway to permanent residence in New Zealand after working for a period of time:
- Straight to Residence Visa - For roles on Tier 1 of the Green List
- Work to Residence Visa - For Tier 2 Green List roles after working for 24 months
- Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa - For those who have worked in care workforce roles for 24 months
- Transport Work to Residence Visa - For those who have worked in transport roles for 24 months
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
This points-based system allows skilled workers to become permanent residents. You need to:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Qualify for at least 6 points for your skills and work in New Zealand
- Receive an invitation to apply
- Meet health, character, and English language requirements
Working Holiday Visas
Available to young citizens (typically aged 18-30 or 18-35) from over 40 countries with which New Zealand has agreements. These visas allow you to work and study while holidaying in New Zealand, usually for 12 months (or 23 months for UK citizens).
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa
This visa allows people to work temporarily in New Zealand's horticulture and viticulture industries during peak seasons. You must have a job offer from a Recognised Seasonal Employer.
Partner Work Visas
Several options exist for partners of New Zealand citizens, residents, or visa holders:
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Work Visa (for partners of students in specific courses)
Post-Study Work Visa
For international students who have completed a qualification in New Zealand. This visa allows you to work for any employer for up to 3 years, depending on your qualification level and where you studied.
Specific Purpose Work Visa
For people coming to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event, such as:
- Artists, entertainers, or musicians and their support staff
- Sports players and coaches
- Installers or servicers of specialized equipment
- Other specific roles where specialized expertise is required
The Green List
The Green List is a list of occupations where there are globally acknowledged shortages. It's divided into two tiers:
- Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) - Allows eligible applicants to apply for residence from offshore or after arriving in New Zealand
- Tier 2 (Work to Residence) - Allows eligible applicants to apply for residence after working in New Zealand for 24 months
Occupations on the Green List include roles in healthcare, engineering, ICT, construction, and other sectors experiencing skill shortages.
How Sunrise Immigration Services Can Help
Navigating New Zealand's work visa system can be complex. Our experienced team can assist you with:
- Assessing your eligibility for different work visa categories
- Identifying the most suitable visa pathway based on your skills, qualifications, and circumstances
- Preparing and reviewing your visa application
- Liaising with employers regarding accreditation and job requirements
- Providing guidance on skill assessments and qualification recognition
- Advising on pathways from temporary work visas to permanent residence
- Keeping you updated on changes to immigration policies and requirements
Information sourced from: Immigration New Zealand - Working in NZ
Back to Services