New Zealand has more than 80 types of visas. With so many options, it can be difficult to choose the right type of New Zealand work visa for each team member, but here are a few guidelines to help you navigate the process.
Types of work visas in New Zealand
Employees have multiple options when it comes to obtaining a New Zealand work visa. That said, a few of the most common visa types include:
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
- Straight to Residence Visa
- Post Study Work Visa
- Student and Trainee Work Visa
- Working Holiday Visa
Some of these visa types fall under the eVisa category. Instead of sending in their passport, applicants will instead get an electronic visa that they can find in the immigration electronic system. This solution replaces a physical sticker or passport stamp.
Requirements to obtain New Zealand work visas
Since New Zealand has so many different types of work visas, applicants must make sure they follow the right requirements and procedures for their specific visa. In general, applicants will need to provide:
- Passport or travel document
- 2 passport-sized color photographs
- Medical and chest x-ray, health questionnaire, and medical exam
- Character questionnaire and police certificates from the individual’s country of origin as well as any place they’ve lived for at least 5 years since they turned 17.
Some New Zealand working visas are subject to a points scale, which applicants are awarded based on certain qualifications. The country’s immigration website has a simulation that allows people to test whether they meet the required points to apply.
Application process
Applicants can complete most of the New Zealand work visa application process through the country’s immigration website. The process is typically straightforward and shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes. However, individuals can apply in person by submitting the form and necessary documents to the corresponding receiving center.
Local authorities will send a notification in case of an eVisa. The process of gaining an eVisa usually requires the applicant to open an account on the immigration website to finish the application process. We recommend printing out the eVisa letter and having it on hand while living and working in New Zealand.
Other important considerations
Some work permits in New Zealand operate under a quota system. Tight deadlines and limited spots can make it difficult to get what you need. If there is a set quota, applications will open on a specific day — often 59 days from the application date. Once the quota is reached, the applicant can’t apply again until the following year.
If applicants are planning to relocate to New Zealand with their families, they will require visas as well. Effective May 2023, spouses and partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa or Essential Skills Visa holders no longer need a job offer or job check for their application. However, their visa will be granted on the condition that they must also work for an accredited employer and must earn the median wage.
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At this moment, G-P does not sponsor or offer support in the processing of work visas or permits in this particular location.