How can I work and live in New Zealand?
Settle permanently in New Zealand
There are several options for obtaining the legal right to settle permanently in New Zealand, such as:
Skilled Migrant category
The Skilled Migrant category is for people who have the skills, qualifications and experience New Zealand needs to grow and address skills shortages, and who want to live and work permanently in New Zealand.
Work to Residence
The Work to Residence category allows successful applicants to get a temporary work visa as a step towards gaining residency. Applicants may be qualified in occupations that are in demand in New Zealand, or may have exceptional talent in sports or the arts.
Employee of a Relocating Company
The Employee of a Relocating Company category is available to key employees of businesses relocating their operations to New Zealand. You will have to show that your business has relocated and meets New Zealand’s trading requirements and you must also work for the relocated business for two years.
Work temporarily in New Zealand
There are several options for obtaining the legal right to visit and work temporarily in New Zealand, such as:
Temporary work visas
Immigration New Zealand grants temporary work visas to people who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, people people with skills in demand in New Zealand, people coming to New Zealand for a particular purpose or event, and people who want to gain work experience or work after studying in New Zealand.
Working Holiday
If you're aged between 18 and 30 years you may be eligible to experience life in New Zealand on a Working Holiday visa. If you can show that you have worked in the horticulture or viticulture industries for at least three months, you may be eligible to obtain an extra three month stay in New Zealand.
Visa eligibility and approval depends on the applicant's individual circumstances. To find out if you're eligible for a New Zealand Skilled Migrant visa, take Working In's free online eligibility assessment.
What next?
- Talk to New Zealand employers at an Opportunities Overseas Expo near you
- Get expert help with your NZ visa
- Search for jobs in New Zealand
- Find out more about the Skilled Migrant category