new-zealand-work-visa

New Zealand Work Visa: Types, Requirements & Application

New Zealand has several opportunities for international workers because of the relatively small population and high employment level. By obtaining a New Zealand work permit, individuals acquire the chance to live and work in the country.


It provides a high-quality life, good salary packages, and work-life balance. There are huge shortages in key sectors like healthcare, technology, and agriculture. To fulfill the labor shortage in the market, New Zealand has enhanced the work permits that help foreign workers choose the best fit for them to work abroad. 


What is a New Zealand work visa?


A New Zealand work visa allows the applicants to work and live in New Zealand. The New Zealand government offers types of work visas based on your skills. 


Types of New Zealand work visas


Several types of New Zealand work visas can help foreign workers to work and reside in New Zealand. The names of the work permits are as follows:


Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

This visa enables skilled workers to secure permanent residency in New Zealand. It is tailored for individuals who have the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience that are sought after in the New Zealand job market.


Accredited Employer Work Visa

If you have received a job offer from an accredited employer, you are qualified to apply for an Accredited Employer Work visa. To be eligible, the employer must have offered you at least 30 hours of work per week. The length of your visa will be contingent upon your salary. If your pay is at or above the New Zealand median wage of NZD 29.66 per hour, your visa will be valid for a maximum of 3 years.


New Zealand Diplomatic Visa

If you are a domestic worker for diplomatic, consular, or official personnel stationed in New Zealand, apply for this visa. Your application must be endorsed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.


Entertainers Work Visa

The Entertainer's Work Visa permits you to engage in work within the video, film, or production sectors in New Zealand.


Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa

If you have been employed in New Zealand for over two years with a long-term work visa. You must be present in New Zealand at the time of your application, and upon receiving residence, you will have the freedom to work and study in any field of your choice.


Post Study Work Visa

This visa allows you to work in New Zealand for a period of three years if you have recently completed your studies in New Zealand. This visa offers a chance to acquire valuable work experience in your area of study, which can improve your resume and enhance your job prospects.


Recognized Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

With the New Zealand Recognized Seasonal Employer Limited visa, individuals are permitted to engage in work related to viticulture and horticulture, which includes activities such as planting, maintaining, harvesting, and packing crops. To be eligible for this visa, it is necessary to possess a job offer from a Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) and to have medical insurance.


Specific Purpose Work Visa

The Specific Purpose Work visa grants permission to visit New Zealand for a designated reason or objective. This visa provides the flexibility to remain in the country for the time required to accomplish your specific purpose.


Supplementary Seasonal Employment SSE Work Visa

The SSE Work Visa can be applied for by those who are currently in New Zealand on a student or visitor visa and wish to undertake seasonal work within the horticulture or viticulture sectors.


Talent Accredited Employer Resident Visa

Individuals who have been an accredited employer in New Zealand for a duration exceeding two years qualify for the Talent Accredited Employer visa.


New Zealand Working Holiday Visa

The Working Holiday New Zealand visa allows young individuals from around the globe to travel to New Zealand and work while experiencing the beauty of the country. New Zealand has established agreements with 45 countries to facilitate participation in the Working Holiday Program.


Working Holidaymaker Extension

If your Working Holiday visa is nearing expiration, and you wish to continue working in New Zealand; you may apply for the Working Holidaymaker Extension visa. This visa permits an additional three-month stay in the country, provided that you have been employed in the horticulture or viticulture industries.


How to apply for a New Zealand work permit?


To apply for a New Zealand work permit, individuals need to follow these steps:


  1. A valid job offer letter from the New Zealand employer.
  2. Choose the right visa as per your needs and circumstances.
  3. Gather all the documents.
  4. Submit the visa application form with the required indentures.
  5. Pay the non-refundable fee.
  6. Wait for the authorities to process your application.


Documents required for a New Zealand work visa


  • A valid passport
  • Passport-sized
  • Valid job offer
  • Academic qualifications
  • Police clearance certificate
  • English language certificate
  • Accommodation proof
  • Proof of flight tickets 
  • A medical certificate
  • Proof of finances


Cost to apply for a New Zealand work visa


Visa Type

Visa Cost

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

NZD $4,890

Accredited Employer Work Visa

NZD $750

New Zealand Diplomatic Visa

NZ $635 —  $775

Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa

NZD $4,240

Post-Study Work Visa

NZD $625 — $860

Recognized Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

NZD $280 — $435

Supplementary Seasonal Employment Work Visa

NZ $630 — $750

Specific Purpose Work Visa

NZD $620 — $745

New Zealand Working Holiday Visa

NZD $455

Entertainers Work Visa

NZ $735 — $815


New Zealand work permit processing time


Visa Type

Processing Time

Accredited Employer Work Visa

20 – 44 days

New Zealand Diplomatic Visa

49 days

Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa

5 months

Post-Study Work Visa

34 days

Recognized Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

9 days

Supplementary Seasonal Employment SSE Work Visa

50 days or 3 – 5 days, depending upon the priority

Specific Purpose Work Visa

4 – 6 weeks

New Zealand Working Holiday Visa

36 days

Entertainers Work Visa

16 days


Summary

New Zealand is recognized for its stunning landscapes.  The government of New Zealand offers various work visas, each designed for specific purposes and differing durations of stay. 


This guide acts as a practical resource, delivering crucial information regarding the application process, eligibility requirements, and necessary documentation.


Whether you are attracted to New Zealand's vibrant urban areas or its awe-inspiring natural beauty, Izago Immigration is here to furnish you with the essential details required to work in New Zealand. 

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