Overview
Common Categories:
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Specific Purpose or Event Visa
- Post-Study Work Visa
Specialist & Supportive Categories:
- Partnership Work Visas (NZ & non-NZ partner)
- Work to Residence Pathway
- Religious Worker Visa
- Student & Trainee Work Visa
- Working Holiday Visa
- Seasonal & Specialist Industry Work Visas
We tailor visa pathways to your unique career, relationship, and family circumstances—always aligned with long-term residency planning.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
A trusted pathway for skilled professionals looking to live and work in New Zealand.
The Accredited Employer Work Visa is New Zealand’s primary work visa for international talent. To be eligible, applicants must hold a confirmed job offer from a New Zealand government-accredited employer.
The process involves multiple steps:
- Employers must first obtain accreditation.
- A “Job Check” must confirm no suitable New Zealanders are available for the role.
- Only once these are approved can the visa application proceed.
This multi-stage process can be complex, which is why more than 70% of applicants choose to work with a Licensed Immigration Adviser to ensure a smooth, successful outcome.
General Eligibility Includes:
- A verified job offer that meets pay and job criteria.
- Proof of qualifications and relevant experience.
- English language proficiency (in some cases).
- Meeting health and character requirements.
- Maximum stay of 3–5 years (depending on the role).
- In some cases, this visa can be a stepping stone to residency.
Partnership Visa
New Zealand Partner
Love, Legitimized.
For discerning couples with ties to New Zealand, the Partnership Visa offers a refined path to reunite and build a life together. Whether you're in the early stages of cohabitation or already living in a committed, long-term relationship, this category provides bespoke options suited to your situation.
Visa Options:
- Under 12 months living together: You may be eligible for a temporary visitor or work visa.
- 12+ months together: A 24-month work visa may be available.
A relationship must be genuine, stable, and substantiated through appropriate evidence. Health and character considerations apply.
Accompanying Spouse or Partner of a Work Visa Holder
Extend Opportunity. Empower Together.
If your partner is employed in New Zealand under a valid work visa, you may also qualify to live and work alongside them.
Tailored to Your Journey:
- In most cases, no job restrictions—enabling full professional flexibility.
- Some visas require employment with accredited employers and may include salary thresholds.
- Relationship proof is required, along with standard character and health criteria.
Should your partner’s employment not meet certain conditions, we can explore your independent eligibility based on your skills or career background.
Specific Purpose or Event Visa
Tailored Entry for Global Talent, Executives & Industry Specialists
This visa category is designed for individuals undertaking defined assignments in New Zealand—typically while remaining employed and remunerated offshore. It enables seamless, short- to mid-term entry for elite professionals contributing to key sectors or high-value projects.
Who It's Designed For:
- Senior executives and C-suite leaders relocating for international expansions or transitional leadership roles
- Specialist technicians installing advanced technology or equipment critical to local operations
- World-class performers, artists, production crews, and event professionals
- Elite athletes, coaches, adjudicators, and competition officials
- Seasonal or project-based experts in industries such as fine wine, winter sports, marine tourism, and more.
Each application must clearly demonstrate the value and purpose of your presence in New Zealand.
Work to Residence Visa
From Employment to Residency—A Strategic Pathway
For professionals already contributing to New Zealand’s economy, select work visas offer a defined pathway to residency. Eligible visa holders—such as those on Accredited Employer Work Visas, Religious Worker Visas, or Talent Visas in Arts, Culture, or Sport—may apply for residence after meeting specific employment and eligibility criteria.
In some cases, residency may be applied for immediately, while others require 2–3 years of continuous employment in New Zealand.
Note: Applicants must meet health and character requirements. Where exceptional circumstances apply, waivers may be considered.
Talent Visa
Arts, Culture & Sport -
For Globally Recognized Individuals in Creative & Cultural Fields
This pathway is designed for individuals with an international reputation in the arts, culture, or sport. To qualify, applicants must be supported by a nationally recognized New Zealand body and a personal sponsor.
Key Criteria:
- International acclaim and demonstrable achievements
- Endorsement from a recognized New Zealand institution
- Two years on a Talent Work Visa before applying for residence
- Meet health and character requirements
This is a prestigious and selective route—ideal for creatives and athletes ready to bring their talent to New Zealand.
Post-Study Work Visa
Bridge Study to Professional Opportunity
International graduates of eligible New Zealand programmes may apply for a post-study work visa, offering the opportunity to gain practical experience in the local workforce.
Highlights:
- Valid for 12–36 months, depending on your qualification and course duration
- Open visa: work for any employer, in any role
- Must meet health, character, and financial support criteria
Working Holiday Visa
Adventure Meets Earning Potential
For young travellers aged 18–30 (or 35 for some countries), New Zealand offers working holiday visas—blending exploration with temporary employment.
Key Details:
-Up to 12 months of stay (extendable to 36 months for some nationalities)
-No permanent employment permitted
-Limited quotas and first-come, first-served policies apply
-Must be in good health and character
Perfect for independent explorers and aspiring global citizens.
Religious Worker Visa
Supporting Spiritual & Community Contributions
Approved religious organizations may sponsor experienced faith leaders or spiritual workers to live and serve in New Zealand.
Sponsorship required by a recognized religious institution.
-Health and character requirements apply.
-May lead to residence after a defined period.
Student & Trainee Visa
Practical Experience as Part of Academic Growth
This visa supports international students needing practical, course-related work experience in New Zealand. Common among medical, dental, and specialist trainees, it allows immersion in New Zealand’s professional landscape.
-Must be tied to formal academic requirements.
-Often granted in industries with structured practical components.
Specialist & Seasonal Work Visa Categories
Meeting Industry-Specific Labor Needs
New Zealand offers temporary visas for roles in priority sectors, including:
Primary industries: horticulture, viticulture, and agriculture
Hospitality: seasonal tourism roles
Fishing crews and niche technical trades
These visas often involve quotas, employer obligations (e.g. accommodation and repatriation), and specific qualifications.