Work Visa for New Zealand

New Zealand provides a variety of work visas depending on your skills, job offer, and plans for staying long-term. Here are the main types of work visas available:

1. 1. 1. Essential Skills Work Visa

This visa allows skilled workers with a job offer in New Zealand to work for a specific employer in a nominated role.

• • • Eligibility:
      • A valid job offer from a New Zealand employer.
      • The role must be listed on New Zealand’s Skills Shortage List.
      • Evidence of relevant qualifications and work experience.
      • Proof that no New Zealand citizen or resident is available to fill the role.

1. 1. 2. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

This is a points-based visa for skilled workers looking to live and work in New Zealand permanently.

• • • Eligibility:
      • Your occupation must be on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL).
      • A points threshold based on factors like age, skills, work experience, and qualifications.
      • Pass a health and character check.
      • Meet English language proficiency requirements.

1. 1. 3. Work to Residence Visa

This visa allows individuals who have a job offer from an accredited employer to work in New Zealand and later apply for residency.

• • • Eligibility:
      • A job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
      • Your job must meet the skill level requirements of the Long-Term Skill Shortage List.
      • After 24 months of working, you can apply for residency under the Resident from Work category.

1. 1. 4. Post Study Work Visa

For recent graduates from a recognized New Zealand institution, this visa allows you to work in New Zealand in any job.

• • • Eligibility:
      • Completion of a New Zealand qualification that meets the criteria.
      • No job offer required at the time of application.
      • Valid for up to 3 years depending on the qualification obtained.

1. 1. 5. Specific Purpose or Event Visa

This visa is for people coming to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event, such as short-term assignments, sports, or entertainment activities.

• • • Eligibility:
      • Proof of the purpose or event, such as contracts, agreements, or invitations.
      • Evidence of qualifications and skills relevant to the specific purpose or event.

Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements:

• • • Job Offer: A valid job offer from a New Zealand employer is required for most work visas (except Post Study Work Visa).
    • Skills and Experience: Your skills and qualifications must match the requirements for the job and visa category.
    • English Language Proficiency: Some visas require proof of English language skills (e.g., IELTS).
    • Health and Character: You must undergo a medical exam and provide a police clearance certificate.
    • Proof of Financial Stability: For certain visa types, proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and any family members may be required.

Application Process

Step 1: Consultation and Profile Assessment

• • • Contact Real Gateway of Migration: We assess your profile and guide you on the most suitable work visa based on your skills and job offer.

Step 2: Secure Job Offer and Sponsorship

• • • Job Offer: For employer-sponsored visas, we assist you in connecting with New Zealand employers and ensure they meet sponsorship requirements.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• • • Valid passport.
    • Job offer letter or sponsorship documents.
    • Evidence of qualifications and work experience.
    • Proof of English proficiency (if required).
    • Health and character documents (medical exam and police clearance).
    • Proof of financial stability (if applicable).

Step 4: Submit Your Work Visa Application

• • • Visa Application Submission: We assist you in completing and submitting your visa application online through Immigration New Zealand’s portal.
    • Biometrics: Attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs if required.
    • Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee based on your visa type.

Step 5: Visa Processing

• • • Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on the visa type, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
    • Updates: We keep you informed of your application’s progress and handle any follow-up requests from New Zealand immigration authorities.

Step 6: Receive Visa Decision

• • • Visa Approval: Upon approval, you will receive a visa grant letter.
    • Travel to New Zealand: Use your visa to enter New Zealand and begin your career journey.