VISAS

Student Visas

A student visa is generally required for international students planning to undertake eligible full-time study in New Zealand.

Applicants will normally need an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider and must meet the applicable requirements relating to tuition fees, living expenses, health, character and genuine study intentions.

NZEA helps students identify suitable programmes, apply to recognised institutions and prepare for their education journey. Advice about visa eligibility, documentation and the immigration application process is provided by the Licensed Immigration Adviser.

Work Visas

New Zealand has different work visa options depending on an applicant’s qualifications, employment, study history and personal circumstances.

• Accredited Employer Work Visa: For eligible applicants who have a suitable full-time job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer and meet the applicable skill, qualification, experience and employment requirements.
• Post Study Work Visa: Certain international graduates may be eligible to work in New Zealand after completing an approved New Zealand qualification. Eligibility and visa conditions depend on the qualification completed and current immigration requirements.
• Partner of a Worker Work Visa: An eligible partner of some New Zealand work-visa holders may qualify for a work visa, depending on the supporting partner’s visa, employment and other requirements.
• Other Work Visa Options: Additional work visas may be available for specific occupations, purposes, sectors or circumstances.

Holding a work visa does not automatically provide a pathway to New Zealand residence.

Partner and Family Visas

Partner and family visas may allow eligible family members to join a New Zealand citizen, resident or qualifying temporary-visa holder.

• Partnership-Based Visas: Temporary or resident visa options may be available for eligible partners. Applicants usually need to demonstrate that their relationship is genuine, stable and meets Immigration New Zealand’s requirements.
• Dependent Child Visas: Eligible dependent children may be able to visit, study or live in New Zealand with their parents.
• Parent Visa Options: Certain visitor or resident options may be available for eligible parents of New Zealand citizens or residents. Sponsorship, income, health, insurance and other requirements may apply.

The appropriate family visa will depend on the supporting person’s immigration status and the family’s individual circumstances.

New Zealand Residence Pathways

New Zealand has several potential residence pathways for eligible skilled workers and their families.

• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: This pathway considers factors such as skilled New Zealand employment, qualifications, occupational registration, income and skilled work experience.
• Straight to Residence Visa: Certain applicants working in eligible Green List occupations may qualify for residence if they meet the specified requirements.
• Work to Residence Visa: Some applicants may become eligible after completing the required period of qualifying employment in New Zealand.
• Partnership and Family Residence: Residence options may also be available through an eligible New Zealand citizen or resident partner, parent or dependent-child relationship.

Residence requirements are detailed and evidence-based. Completing a New Zealand qualification or obtaining employment does not guarantee eligibility for residence.

Visitor Visas

A visitor visa may allow eligible applicants to travel to New Zealand for tourism, to visit family or friends, or for another permitted temporary purpose.

Applicants may need to demonstrate genuine visitor intentions, sufficient funds or acceptable sponsorship, appropriate onward-travel arrangements and compliance with health and character requirements.

A visitor visa does not generally allow a person to work for a New Zealand employer.

Investment Visas

The Active Investor Plus Visa is intended for eligible investors who can meet New Zealand’s investment, residence and other immigration requirements.

These applications can involve substantial financial commitments and detailed supporting evidence.

Personalised Visa Guidance

Every immigration case is different. The most appropriate visa depends on your background, plans, supporting evidence and Immigration New Zealand’s requirements at the time of application.

NZEA does not guarantee a visa, employment or residence outcome. Immigration decisions are made solely by Immigration New Zealand.