Working in New Zealand

Thinking of working in New Zealand? There are many types of working visas available so get in touch with us today and we can help guide you in the right direction.

To work in New Zealand you must hold a work visa. There are many types of work visas available in New Zealand and determining which ones best suit you can be confusing and complicated.

The most common work visa is an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). You can apply for this visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer and you meet the skills and qualifications required for the job. The employer must also have offered you a role that is at least 30 hours a week. An accredited employer is a New Zealand employer who has received an accreditation from Immigration NZ, allowing them to recruit migrants to fill roles that cannot otherwise be filled by New Zealand workers.

If you are eligible for an AEWV you may be able to stay and work in New Zealand for up to 5 years, but only if you are paid at least the current median wage. You can also study for up to 3 months within a 12 month period or do any study that is required as part of your job.

It is important to remember that your visa is linked with your employer, so if your situation changes you will need to apple for a new visa or submit an application to vary the conditions of your visa.

Specific Purpose Work Visa

Are you working for a multi-national corporation or are seconded to New Zealand for a fixed term? Perhaps you are sports player, referee, judge or a sports coach ? Are you an entertainer coming to New Zealand for a performance? Or a installer or specialised machinery or equipment ? The Specific Purpose Work Visa could be applicable to you.

To qualify, the work you are undertaking must be time-bound and you are suitably qualified to undertake the work. If eligible, depending on the category you can stay and work in New Zealand for the duration of your engagement up to 3 years.

Alternatively, the Working Holiday visa scheme could be an option for you.

So are you interested in working in New Zealand?

How we can help:

• We can review your circumstances to assess whether you would be eligible for a work visa , and determine whether the general eligibility criteria is met
• Advise on any criteria including reviewing and advising employers on employment documentation and statutory employment obligations
• Helping you prepare for the application process and being the contact person for communications from INZ
• Responding to and presenting submissions to INZ on your behalf regarding concerns raised during the application process