Visas for working in New Zealand
There are many different visas that let you work in New Zealand. All are temporary visas, but some can lead to residence.
Visas that allow you to work
There are a range of visas you can apply for to work in New Zealand. Some work visas require you to have a job offer at the application stage, and to only work in certain jobs. With other visas, you do not need a job offer and can work for almost any employer. What you can do on your visa will be specified in your visa conditions.
| Visa Type / Category | Who it’s for / Key Features |
|---|---|
| Working Holiday Visa | For people aged 18–30 (or up to 35 for some countries) who want to holiday and work temporarily in New Zealand. |
| Working Holiday Extension Work Visa | For those already in NZ on a Working Holiday Visa who have completed at least 3 months of horticulture or viticulture work; allows an extra 3 months stay. |
| Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) | For applicants with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer. Visa length varies between 7 months to 5 years based on role, pay, and skill level. |
| Work to Residence Visas | Includes options like Care Workforce, Transport, or Skilled Migrant pathways that allow work in NZ with a route to permanent residence. |
| Country-Specific Work Visas | Special programs for citizens of certain countries (e.g., China, Indonesia) for specific job sectors such as chefs, tour guides, or technical experts. |
| Partner Work Visas | For partners or spouses of NZ citizens, residents, or holders of work/student visas to live and work in New Zealand. |
| Religious Worker / Student & Trainee Visas | For religious roles or students who need on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or internships. |
| Seasonal Work Visas | For temporary workers in horticulture or viticulture industries; usually requires employment through a Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE). |
| Post-Study Work Visa | For international students who have completed eligible qualifications in NZ, allowing them to stay and work for up to 3 years. |
| Business Investor Work Visa | For individuals planning to invest at least NZD 1 million in an existing NZ business and manage it. Opening expected in 2025. |
| Other Temporary Work Options | Includes part-time work rights for students, or short-term permission changes to work during holidays or breaks. |
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