If you’re considering working in New Zealand, you’ll need to obtain a work visa before you can start your job. New Zealand has a range of different work visas available, each with its own specific requirements and conditions. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the work visa for New Zealand options and what you need to know to apply for one.
Essential Skills Work Visa
The Essential Skills Work Visa is the most common work visa for people who are not New Zealand citizens or residents. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer and meet the minimum requirements for your occupation.
You’ll need to provide evidence of your qualifications and work experience and that your employer has advertised the job to New Zealanders and has been unable to find a suitable candidate.
The length of your visa will depend on the length of your job offer. If your job offer is for less than six months, you’ll get a visa for the duration of the job. If your job offer is for more than six months, you’ll get a visa for a maximum of five years.
Work to Residence Visa
The Work to Residence Visa is for people with a job offer in New Zealand in an occupation on the Long Term Skills Shortage List. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand for up to 30 months, after which you may be eligible to apply for residency.
To be eligible for a Work to Residence Visa, you must have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, meet the minimum requirements for your occupation, and meet the health and character requirements. You’ll also need to provide evidence of your qualifications and work experience.
Partnership Work Visa
The Partnership Work Visa is for people who are in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand while you’re living with your partner.
To be eligible for a Partnership Work Visa, you must be able to prove that your relationship is genuine and stable and that you’re living with your partner in New Zealand. Also, you’ll need to meet the standards for character and health.
Entrepreneur Work Visa
The Entrepreneur work visa for New Zealand is for people wanting to start a New Zealand business. To be eligible, you’ll need to provide a detailed business plan and meet the minimum investment and turnover requirements.
If you’re granted an Entrepreneur Work Visa, you’ll be able to work in New Zealand while you’re setting up your business. After two years, if you’ve been successful in your business venture, you may be eligible to apply for residency.
Investor Visa
The Investor Visa is for people who want to invest in New Zealand. If you’re granted an Investor Visa, you’ll be able to work in New Zealand while investing. After four years, if you’ve met your visa requirements, you may be eligible to apply for residency.
In summary, if you plan to work in New Zealand, you’ll need to obtain a work visa before starting your job. ICL offers visa application assistance to thousands of eligible New Zealand migrants each year, covering every aspect of the process. Once you’ve submitted your application, you can expect a decision within two to four months.