Work Visa Pathway

New Zealand offers a range of work visa options for skilled professionals, recent graduates, entrepreneurs, and partners of New Zealanders. Here's a streamlined overview of the most common pathways.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

  • For those with a full-time job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer.

    • Minimum 30 hours/week

    • Short-term study permitted (up to 3 months/year)

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

  • A pathway to residence for skilled workers.

    • Must gain 6+ points (based on income, qualifications, experience, etc.)

    • Job offer from an accredited employer required
      Age limit: 55 years
      Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

Woman in beige suit holding notebook and pen, looking out large window in office

Green List Pathways

  • Fast-tracked residence for in-demand occupations.

    • Tier 1 – Straight to Residence

      • Apply immediately with a job offer in a Tier 1 occupation

    • Tier 2 – Work to Residence

      • Apply after 24 months of work in a Tier 2 role

Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa

  • For roles listed on NZ’s long-term skill shortage list.

    • Valid for up to 30 months

    • Eligible for residence after 2 years of work

Post-Study Work Visa

  • For recent graduates from New Zealand institutions.

    • Work for any employer

    • Valid for up to 3 years, depending on qualification and location

Working Holiday Visa

  • For young travellers wanting to work while exploring NZ.

    • Ages 18–30 or 35 (depending on nationality)

    • Stay up to 12–36 months

Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa

  • Allows you to work in NZ if your partner is a NZ citizen or resident.

    • Evidence of a genuine and stable relationship required

Entrepreneur Work Visa

  • For business owners establishing or purchasing a business in NZ.

    • Stay up to 3 years

    • Pathway to residence if business is successful

Talent (Arts, Culture, Sports) Work Visa

  • For people with exceptional talent in their field.

    • Work for up to 30 months

    • Eligible for residence after 2 years of active contribution in NZ

Digital Nomad (Visitor Visa Update – Jan 2025)

  • Remote workers can now stay and work in NZ

    • Up to 90 days, extendable to 9 months

    • Tax implications may apply for longer stays

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