Specific Purpose or Event Visa
Coming to New Zealand for a specific project, production, event, or specialist role? This visa covers short-term work that does not fit the standard AEWV pathway.
Short-term
Project Based
Flexible
Duration Options
95%
Visa Approval Rate
Licensed
Immigration Advisers (LAI)
When Your Work Does Not Fit a Standard Visa
The Specific Purpose Work Visa (also called the Specific Purpose or Event visa) is for people who need to work in New Zealand for a defined, time-limited purpose that does not fit the standard Accredited Employer Work Visa pathway. It is designed for project-based, event-based, or specialist contracted work.
Film & Television Productions
International cast and crew working on film, television, or streaming productions in New Zealand can apply for a specific purpose visa for the duration of the production.
Sporting Events
Athletes, coaches, officials, and support staff travelling to New Zealand for a specific sporting event or competition can obtain a specific purpose visa for the event period.
Specialist Contractors
Highly skilled specialists brought in for a specific project — such as engineers, IT specialists, or construction experts — who are employed by an overseas company and working in New Zealand on a contract basis.
Cultural Performers
Musicians, dancers, artists, and cultural performers participating in a defined event, tour, or residency in New Zealand can apply for a visa covering the specific engagement.
Conference Speakers
International speakers, presenters, or academics attending and presenting at a New Zealand conference or event may require a specific purpose visa if they are being paid for their participation.
Other Defined Purposes
Any work that is genuinely time-limited, clearly defined, and does not require ongoing employment in New Zealand may qualify. We assess your specific situation to confirm the right visa type.
What You Will Need
Applications are assessed case by case. The key is demonstrating that the work is genuine, time-limited, and that you will leave New Zealand when the purpose is complete.
Evidence of the Specific Purpose
A contract, letter of engagement, event confirmation, or production schedule showing the nature of the work, the dates, and who you are working for in New Zealand.
Employer or Organiser Details
Details of the New Zealand-based organisation, event, production, or company you are working with — including their contact information and confirmation of your role.
Valid Passport
Must be valid for the full duration of your stay in New Zealand plus at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
Medical Certificate (if required)
Depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay, a medical certificate from an INZ-approved physician may be required.
Police Certificate (if required)
A character certificate may be required depending on your nationality and the duration of your visa.
Proof of Intention to Depart
Evidence that you intend to leave New Zealand at the end of the specific purpose — such as a return ticket or confirmation of ongoing commitments in your home country.
How We Help You Apply
Specific purpose visa applications are assessed individually. We build the application around your specific situation to give you the strongest possible chance of approval.
Purpose Assessment
We review your situation — the type of work, duration, employer or organiser details, and your country of citizenship — and confirm whether a specific purpose visa is the right pathway for you.
Document Preparation
We prepare a tailored application with all required supporting evidence — contracts, event documentation, employer letters, and any health or character requirements.
Application Lodgement
We submit your application through INZ’s online system and handle all correspondence — including responses to any INZ queries during processing.
Visa Granted & Entry Briefing
Once your visa is approved, we confirm the conditions — including work rights, permitted activities, and the latest date by which you must depart New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for other people while in New Zealand on a specific purpose visa?
No. A specific purpose visa only permits you to work for the specific employer, event, or production named in your visa. Working for anyone else requires a separate application.
What if the project runs longer than expected?
If your work in New Zealand needs to continue beyond your visa expiry, you must apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa before the current one expires. Contact us as soon as you know an extension is needed.
Can I attend other events or do other work while I am in New Zealand?
Your visa conditions define exactly what you are permitted to do. Any activities outside those conditions require a separate application. We advise on what is and is not permitted under your specific visa.
Is a specific purpose visa the same as a work visa?
It is a type of work visa — but it is issued for a specific purpose rather than for general employment. The distinction matters because it affects what you are permitted to do and who you can work for while in New Zealand.
How quickly can the visa be processed?
Processing times vary. For time-sensitive events or productions, we advise applying as early as possible. In some cases, urgent processing may be available. We advise on realistic timelines at the assessment stage.
Do I need a visa if I am only in New Zealand for a few days for an event?
It depends on your nationality and whether you are being paid. Some nationalities can visit visa-free, but receiving payment for work in New Zealand typically requires a work visa regardless of duration. We confirm what applies to your specific situation.
Got a Specific Project or Event in New Zealand?
We build specific purpose visa applications around your exact situation. Get a free assessment and find out how quickly we can get your visa sorted.
