Work & Skilled Visas

New Zealand offers several work visa categories designed for different circumstances and career goals. The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the primary pathway for most skilled workers, requiring a job offer from an accredited employer who has obtained job check approval from Immigration New Zealand.

The Skilled Migrant Category provides a pathway to residence for highly skilled workers who meet points-based criteria. Other options include working holiday visas for young people from partner countries, specific purpose work visas for unique circumstances, and partnership-based work rights for those in relationships with New Zealand citizens or residents.

Each visa type has different eligibility requirements, processing times, and entitlements. Some allow you to include family members, while others are individual applications. Understanding which visa best suits your situation is crucial, as applying for the wrong category can result in decline and wasted time and money.

The Accredited Employer Work Visa requires your prospective employer to first become accredited with Immigration New Zealand, then obtain job check approval for the specific position they want to fill. Only after these steps can you submit your visa application.

Your application must demonstrate that you meet the job requirements, have the necessary skills and qualifications, and satisfy health and character requirements. The role must meet minimum wage and working conditions standards, and in many cases, the employer must show they've attempted to recruit New Zealand workers first.

Processing typically takes 15-25 working days for straightforward applications, but complex cases or requests for additional information can extend this significantly. Your visa will typically be granted for the length of your employment agreement, up to a maximum period depending on your circumstances and the role.

The Skilled Migrant Category offers a pathway to New Zealand residence for workers with skills in demand. This points-based system considers factors including age, qualifications, work experience, job offers, and New Zealand qualifications or experience.

Recent changes have made having a skilled job or job offer in New Zealand essential for most applicants. The role must be on the Green List or meet skill level requirements, and you must demonstrate that your qualifications and experience are relevant to the New Zealand job market.

Applications are processed in order of points scored, with higher-scoring applicants processed first. The process can take 6-12 months or longer, and requirements can change during processing. Having a clear understanding of the points system and how to maximise your score is crucial for success.

For most work visa applications, your employer must be accredited with Immigration New Zealand. Employer accreditation involves demonstrating that the business is genuine, has a good track record of compliance with employment and immigration law, and meets specific standards for employing migrant workers.

The accreditation process can take several weeks, and employers must maintain their accreditation by meeting ongoing obligations. This includes paying at least the median wage for most roles, providing evidence of attempts to recruit New Zealand workers, and maintaining proper employment records.

If your employer isn't accredited, they'll need to complete this process before you can apply for most work visas. Understanding these requirements helps you assess whether a job offer is viable and what timeline to expect for your visa application.

Work visa applications require extensive documentation to prove your identity, qualifications, work experience, and eligibility for the specific visa category. This typically includes passport copies, qualification certificates, employment references, medical certificates, and police clearances from countries where you've lived.

Your application must be complete and accurate when submitted. Missing documents or incorrect information can lead to delays, requests for additional information, or decline. Immigration New Zealand has strict requirements for document quality, translation, and verification that must be followed precisely.

The online application system guides you through the requirements, but understanding what each document needs to demonstrate and how to present your case effectively can significantly impact your success. Professional preparation can help ensure your application meets all requirements and presents your case in the best possible light.

Most work visa applications allow you to include your partner and dependent children. Your partner may be eligible for their own work visa, while children typically receive student visas that allow them to attend New Zealand schools.

Including family members increases application costs and documentation requirements, as each person must meet health and character requirements. Your partner's work entitlements depend on your visa type and duration, with some categories providing full work rights while others have restrictions.

Family members included in your application are typically granted visas with the same duration as your work visa. If your circumstances change, such as relationship breakdown or children reaching independence, this can affect their visa status and your obligations as the principal applicant.

Work visas come with specific conditions that you must comply with throughout your stay in New Zealand. These typically include restrictions on the type of work you can do, which employer you can work for, and requirements to maintain adequate health insurance.

Breaching visa conditions can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation, deportation, and future immigration difficulties. Common breaches include working for unauthorised employers, working in roles outside your visa conditions, or failing to maintain health insurance coverage.

If your circumstances change, such as wanting to change employers or extend your stay, you may need to apply for a new visa or variation of conditions. Understanding your obligations and options helps ensure you maintain legal status and avoid jeopardising future immigration applications.

Work visa applications face common challenges including qualification recognition, demonstrating relevant work experience, and meeting English language requirements. Immigration New Zealand has specific standards for how qualifications and experience are assessed, which may differ from your expectations.

Character and health requirements can also create complications, particularly if you have any criminal history, medical conditions, or have lived in multiple countries. These issues don't automatically disqualify you, but they require careful handling and may need additional documentation or assessments.

Changes in immigration policy, processing delays, and requests for additional information can also impact your application timeline and success. Having contingency plans and understanding your options if complications arise helps manage these challenges effectively.

Legal assistance is particularly valuable for complex cases, such as those involving character or health issues, unusual employment arrangements, or previous visa declines. Immigration lawyers can assess your eligibility, identify potential issues, and develop strategies to address challenges before they impact your application.

If your application is declined or you receive a request for additional information, professional advice can help you understand your options and the best way to respond. Time limits for responses are strict, and the wrong approach can permanently affect your immigration prospects.

Even for straightforward applications, legal review can help ensure your documentation is complete and your case is presented effectively. The cost of professional assistance is often minimal compared to the consequences of a declined application or the need to reapply.