Work Visa New Zealand
Whether you have a job offer, a working holiday in mind, or a specific skill New Zealand needs — we help you find the right work visa and build the strongest possible application.
12+
Years of NZ Immigration Experience
95%
Visa Approval Rate
1000+
Work Visas Processed
Licensed
Immigration Advisers (LAI)
Which Work Visa Is Right for You?
New Zealand offers a range of work visas depending on your situation — whether you have a job offer, a specific skill, a working holiday in mind, or you are already here on a different visa. We help you identify the right pathway and apply with confidence.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The main work visa for people with a job offer from an INZ-accredited New Zealand employer. The employer must be accredited before you can apply. This visa replaced the Essential Skills Work Visa in 2022.
Working Holiday Visa
For young people from eligible countries who want to travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months (or longer for some nationalities). A great way to experience New Zealand while funding your trip.
Post Study Work Visa
For international students who have completed a qualification in New Zealand. Allows you to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years after graduating, depending on your study level and location.
Specific Purpose Work Visa
For people coming to New Zealand to do a specific job or project that is time-limited — such as a film production, a sporting event, or a specialist contractor role.
Partner of a Worker Visa
If your partner holds a New Zealand work visa, you may be eligible for an open work visa that allows you to work for any employer. Eligibility depends on your partner’s visa type and duration.
Entrepreneur Work Visa
For people who want to establish or purchase a business in New Zealand. Requires a detailed business plan and evidence that the business will benefit New Zealand. Can lead to residence.
What INZ Looks For
Work visa requirements vary by visa type, but these are the core factors INZ assesses across most work visa applications.
Valid Job Offer or Purpose
For most work visas, a confirmed job offer from a New Zealand employer is required. The employer must meet INZ’s accreditation or labour market requirements.
Relevant Skills or Qualifications
You must have the skills, experience, or qualifications required for the role. INZ may require evidence of your credentials and work history.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for the duration of the visa you are applying for, plus at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
Good Health
Most work visa applicants are required to meet INZ’s health standards. A medical certificate from an INZ-approved physician may be required.
Good Character
You must meet New Zealand’s character requirements. Any criminal history must be disclosed and may need to be addressed with a police certificate and supporting explanation.
Adequate Funds
You must be able to support yourself (and any accompanying family) while in New Zealand, particularly at the start of your employment before your first pay.
How We Help You Apply
Work visa applications involve multiple parties — you, your employer, and INZ. We coordinate the entire process to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Free Assessment
We review your situation — job offer, qualifications, background, and goals — and identify the right work visa for you. We also flag any issues that could affect your application before you proceed.
Employer & Applicant Preparation
We advise your employer on accreditation and job check requirements (where applicable), and prepare a full document checklist for your personal application — reviewing everything before lodgement.
Application Lodgement
We submit your work visa application through INZ’s online portal and manage all correspondence — including responses to any requests for further information during processing.
Visa Granted & Arrival Support
Once your visa is approved, we walk you through the conditions, what to do when you arrive, and what to plan for when it comes time to renew or transition to residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change jobs while on a work visa?
It depends on your visa type. The Accredited Employer Work Visa is tied to a specific employer and role — changing jobs generally requires a new visa application. Some other work visas are open, meaning you can work for any employer. We advise on your specific conditions before you make any changes.
Can my family come with me on a work visa?
Yes, in most cases. Your partner may be eligible for an open work visa, and your dependent children may be able to study at a New Zealand state school, depending on your visa type and duration. We manage family applications alongside yours.
Does a work visa lead to permanent residence?
Some work visas are designed with a pathway to residence in mind — particularly the Accredited Employer Work Visa and the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa. Others, like the Working Holiday Visa, do not lead directly to residence. We advise on your long-term options from the start.
My employer is not accredited. Can I still get a work visa?
For the AEWV, your employer must be accredited before you can apply. We can advise your employer on the accreditation process and assist them in applying. For other visa types, accreditation may not be required — we identify the right pathway for your situation.
How long does a work visa application take?
Processing times vary by visa type and nationality. The AEWV typically takes 4 to 8 weeks once all steps (accreditation, job check, and visa application) are complete. Working Holiday Visas are usually processed much faster. We give you a realistic timeline when we assess your application.
Can I apply for a work visa while I am already in New Zealand?
Yes — many work visas can be applied for from within New Zealand (onshore), provided you hold a current valid visa at the time of application. Applying after your visa has expired puts you in an unlawful situation, so timing is critical. Contact us as early as possible.
Ready to Work in New Zealand?
Get expert advice from licensed immigration advisers who know New Zealand’s work visa system inside out. We will find the right visa for your situation and manage the application from start to finish.
