Have you been dreaming of living and working in an attractive nation like New Zealand?
Well, New Zealand offers a wealth of opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors looking to build their careers or businesses in this scenic country. Eventually, navigating the complicated immigration system could be hectic, mainly for those unaware of the procedure. From understanding the different types of work visas in New Zealand available to the requirements and documents needed for the application, we have got you covered.
That’s why in this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about obtaining a work visa in New Zealand.
Types of Work Visa in New Zealand
Here are a few of the most common types of work visas in New Zealand:
Essential Skills Work Visa
This visa is for people with the necessary skills and experience to work in New Zealand, and it is valid for up to five years.
Work to Residence Visa
This visa is for a person who has an employment letter from an accredited employer in New Zealand and is looking to move to the country permanently.
Entrepreneur Work Visa
Such type of visa is for individuals who wish to begin their company in New Zealand, and it is valid for up to three years.
Partnership-based Work Visa
This visa is for people who are in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident and want to work in the country.
Silver Fern Job Search Visa
Such visas are for young individuals aged 20-35 who are looking for employment and travel in New Zealand for up to nine months.
Post-Study Work Visa
Such a type of visa is for global students who have finished their education in New Zealand and want to operate in the countryside for a while after graduation.
How do I get a Work Visa in New Zealand?
To get a work visa in New Zealand, you will be required to follow a few steps:
Step 1:- Check Your Eligibility
Immigration New Zealand provides a list of eligibility criteria for different types of work visas on its website.
Step 2:- Choose the Right Visa Category
Choose the visa category that best suits your situation and work experience.
Step 3:- Gather the Required Documents
To apply for a work visa, you will need to provide several documents, including your passport, a job offer from a New Zealand employer, etc.
Step 4:- Submit Your Application
You can obtain an employment visa online from the Immigration New Zealand website.
Step 5:- Pay the form Fee
You have to pay the visa form fee during the period of filling up your form. Eventually, the fee might differ as per the visa class and the processing time.
Step 6:- Wait for Your Visa
After you have offered your visa form and submitted the visa fee, you might be kept on hold for your work visa to be approved.
Step 7:- Enter New Zealand
As your work visa is sanctioned, you are allowed to enter New Zealand and begin operating in your respective company.
Keep a duplicate copy of your work visa with you while touring New Zealand.
Documents Required for Work Visa in New Zealand
The precise documents required for a work visa in New Zealand differ according to the kind of visa you are looking for.
However, here are some documents that you may need to provide:
- Valid Passport
- You will need to provide an appointment letter from a New Zealand employer.
- Evidence of Skills and Qualifications
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Medical Certificate
- English Language Proficiency
- You might have to offer assurance of your financial support
Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand Work Visa
Down below are a few known New Zealand work visa requirements that you may need to meet:
- Job Offer: you should possess an appointment letter from a New Zealand employer before you can apply for a work visa.
- Skills and Qualifications: You will need to demonstrate that you possess the mastery and credentials to perform the work you have been offered.
- Health and Character: You may be required to go through a medical check-up and provide a police clearance certification to verify that you are in an adequate state & possess good character.
- English Language Command: You will need to take an English language examination, like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
- Financial Support: You have to present that you possess sufficient funds to support yourself while you are in New Zealand.
- Application Fee: You have to pay a visa form fee when you submit your work visa form.
Processing Time for a New Zealand Work Permit
The overall processing time for a New Zealand work permit depends on various factors such as the type of visa you are applying for, the complexity of your case, and the workload of the immigration authorities. Normally, the processing time could be in between from some weeks to multiple months.
If you apply for a visa online, the processing time is usually faster than if you apply on paper. You can inspect the existing verifying duration for New Zealand work permits on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Therefore, it’s recommended to ensure that you possess all the essential papers and data to prevent any uncertainties in processing your New Zealand work permit form.
How much amount of funds is required for the New Zealand work permit?
The amount of money required for a New Zealand work permit depends on various factors, such as the type of visa, length of stay, cost of living, and whether you have dependents accompanying you. You will be required to give a form fee, which can range from NZD 495 to $2,850, depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
Eventually, you will also have to pay for an immigration levy, which is currently NZD 580 per person. Additionally, you might have to go through a medical check-up and provide a police clearance certification, which can add to the costs.
It’s also crucial to amass sufficient cash to ensure your living expenses in New Zealand, such as lodging, food, transport, and other everyday expenditures.
Conclusion
Obtaining a work visa in New Zealand could be a life-altering experience for those who are willing to leap. It offers a unique blend of a vibrant economy, world-class education, and a high quality of life that is hard to beat.
Whether you are a skilled worker, entrepreneur, or investor, New Zealand has a visa category that can help you achieve your goals. However, the procedure for obtaining a work visa can be tricky and time-consuming. Therefore, it’s essential to be well-informed and prepared before applying for a work visa in New Zealand.
So, start your New Zealand work visa process today with our experts at OnDemand International. With the help of our experts, you will be able to apply for a New Zealand work permit visa, and will guide you throughout the New Zealand work permit interview process.
