New Zealand Work Visa

Overview: the New Zealand Work Visa

A visa permitting employment, usually requiring a job offer and sponsorship from an approved employer. Skilled-worker routes often use points systems or labour-market tests.

A small, selective immigration system built around employer-accredited work visas, a straightforward student visa route, and a low-cost electronic travel authority for most short visits.

Who this visa is for

Sponsored employment, skilled migration and intra-company transfers. Commonly 1–5 years, frequently renewable and a path toward residency.

Key things to know about applying in New Zealand

• Most visa-waiver travellers just need an NZeTA (from NZD $17) rather than a full visitor visa.
• The Accredited Employer Work Visa requires a job offer from an INZ-accredited employer with an approved Job Check.
• Most visitor and student visa holders also pay the NZD $100 International Visitor Levy (IVL).
• The Fee Paying Student Visa needs an offer from an approved education provider plus proof of funds or a sponsor.

The application process, step by step

• Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria and choose the correct visa category.
• Gather your documents and check them against the official requirements.
• Complete and submit the official application and pay the required fees.
• Attend biometrics and, where required, the visa interview.
• Track your application and prepare for travel once approved.

Common reasons applications are refused

• Sponsorship or job-offer documents that are incomplete or inconsistent.
• Qualifications or experience that do not match the role.
• Salary below the threshold required by the visa route.

How VisaMet helps

VisaMet checks whether you qualify for the New Zealand Work Visa, screens your documents against the official checklist, and — where an interview applies — lets you rehearse with a realistic mock officer. A personalised timeline keeps every deadline on track.