New Zealand Immigrant Visas

1. General Information about New Zealand Immigration

1.1. What are the main visa categories for immigration to New Zealand?

New Zealand offers several visa categories for immigrants, including:

Skilled Migrant Visa
Work Visa
Student Visa
Family Reunion Visa
Investor Visa
Entrepreneur Visa
Resident Visa
Temporary Visa

1.2. How do I decide which visa to apply for?

The choice depends on factors like your skills, qualifications, the purpose of migration (work, study, investment, etc.), and the length of your stay.

1.3. What is the New Zealand Immigration process?

The process typically includes:

Determining visa eligibility
Gathering required documents
Submitting the application
Processing and evaluation by Immigration New Zealand (INZ)
Visa approval or rejection

1.4. Is New Zealand a good country for immigrants?

New Zealand offers a high standard of living, a friendly culture, good work-life balance, and beautiful natural surroundings, making it attractive for immigrants.

2. Types of New Zealand Immigrant Visas

2.1. What is the Skilled Migrant Visa (SMV)?

This visa is for individuals with skills, qualifications, and experience that are in demand in New Zealand’s labor market.

2.2. What is the eligibility for the Skilled Migrant Visa?

Age: 20–55 years old
Skills: Must be in a job on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List
Points-based system: Must meet the minimum points threshold (160 points)
English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent)

2.3. What is the process for applying for the Skilled Migrant Visa?

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Receive an invitation to apply if your EOI is selected
Provide required documents, including proof of skills, experience, and qualifications
Medical and police clearances

2.4. What is the work-to-residence pathway?

This allows skilled workers to apply for residence after holding a work visa for at least 24 months.

3. Work Visas

3.1. What is the Essential Skills Work Visa?

The Essential Skills Work Visa is for workers who have been offered full-time employment in New Zealand, but their occupation is not listed on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List.

3.2. How do I apply for a Work Visa?

Job offer from a New Zealand employer
Submit the work visa application, including job offer details
Provide evidence of qualifications and work experience
Health and character assessments

3.3. What is the cost of applying for a Work Visa?

The cost varies, but it typically ranges between NZD $500–NZD $1,000 depending on the type of work visa.

3.4. How long does it take to process a Work Visa?

Processing time can range from 1 to 3 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

3.5. What happens if my Work Visa is declined?

You can appeal the decision or reapply with additional evidence.

4. Student Visa

4.1. What are the requirements for a Student Visa?

Proof of admission to a New Zealand educational institution
Sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
Health insurance
Proof of intent to return to your home country after completing studies

4.2. How long can I stay in New Zealand with a Student Visa?

It depends on the duration of your course, but usually for the length of your study program plus some additional time.

4.3. Can I work while on a Student Visa?

Students may work up to 20 hours per week during terms and full-time during holidays if they meet certain conditions.

5. Investor & Entrepreneur Visas

5.1. What is the Investor Visa?

This visa is for individuals who want to invest a significant amount in New Zealand’s economy, typically starting at NZD $3 million.

5.2. What are the requirements for the Entrepreneur Visa?

You need to show business experience and provide a viable business plan, with at least NZD $100,000 in investment to start a business in New Zealand.

5.3. What is the cost of applying for an Investor or Entrepreneur Visa?

The application fee for Investor Visas starts from NZD $2,000, while Entrepreneur Visa fees are around NZD $1,500.

6. Resident Visas

6.1. What is the Resident Visa?

This visa allows individuals to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.

6.2. What is the process for applying for a Resident Visa?

The process generally involves:

Submitting an EOI (Expression of Interest)
Receiving an invitation to apply
Submitting detailed documents for verification
Medical and police checks

6.3. How long does it take to get a Resident Visa?

Processing can take from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the complexity of your case.

6.4. What is the advantage of having a Resident Visa?

With this visa, you can:

Live and work in New Zealand permanently
Access public health and education services
Apply for New Zealand citizenship after 5 years

7. Family Visas

7.1. How can I sponsor my family to New Zealand?

You can sponsor your partner, children, or other close relatives if you have permanent residency or citizenship.

7.2. What is the Parent Category Visa?

This is for parents of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to join their children in New Zealand.

7.3. What documents are required for family sponsorship?

Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
Financial proof to show the sponsor can support the applicant

8. Visa Application Process, Documents, and Costs

8.1. What documents do I need to submit for a visa application?

Documents vary by visa type but typically include:

Passport and photos
Proof of qualifications and work experience
Health and character certificates
English language proficiency test scores

8.2. How much does it cost to apply for a visa?

Visa fees can range from NZD $500 to NZD $3,000 depending on the visa type.

8.3. How long does the entire visa process take?

Processing times vary from a few weeks for simple visas to 6–12 months for residency visas.

9. Common Challenges and Tips

9.1. What are common reasons for visa rejections?

Incomplete or incorrect documents
Failure to meet health or character requirements
Insufficient funds for the duration of stay

9.2. What are tips for a successful application?

Ensure your documents are accurate and complete
Meet the points threshold if applying for a Skilled Migrant Visa
Prepare for interviews with a clear understanding of your qualifications and intentions in New Zealand

10. Life in New Zealand as an Immigrant

10.1. What is the job market like for immigrants in New Zealand?

New Zealand has a high demand for skilled workers in fields like healthcare, IT, engineering, and trades.

10.2. How much does it cost to live in New Zealand?

Living costs vary by region but can range from NZD $1,500 to NZD $3,000 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location.

10.3. What healthcare options are available for immigrants?

Residents and citizens can access public healthcare through the New Zealand health system, which offers subsidized services.

10.4. Can I bring my pets to New Zealand?

Yes, but you must meet strict quarantine requirements and provide all necessary vaccinations and documentation.

11. Tips for a Successful Immigration Application

11.1. What are the key tips for a successful application?

Ensure all documents are in order and submitted on time
Seek advice from a licensed immigration advisor if needed
Be transparent and honest in all applications and interviews
Meet all health, character, and financial requirements

11.2. How can I stay updated with immigration policies?

Visit the official Immigration New Zealand website regularly and subscribe to their newsletters for policy updates.

1. Skilled Migrant Visa (SMV)

Class: Residence Visa

Purpose: For skilled workers who wish to live and work in New Zealand permanently.

Eligibility Criteria:

Age: Must be between 20 and 55 years old at the time of application.
Skills & Qualifications: Your skills must be in demand in New Zealand’s labor market. You must have an occupation listed on the Essential Skills in Demand List (ESID) or Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL).
Points System: You must score at least 160 points based on factors such as:
- Age (younger applicants get more points)
- Skilled work experience
- Qualifications (higher qualifications earn more points)
- Job offer in New Zealand (having a job offer from a New Zealand employer increases points)
- English language proficiency
English Proficiency: You must meet the minimum English language requirement (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
Health & Character: Must meet health and character requirements.

Application Process:

Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), providing details about your qualifications, work experience, and other relevant information.
Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your EOI is selected, you will receive an ITA to apply for a Resident Visa.
Application Submission: Submit the complete application, including medical exams, police certificates, and required documentation.
Decision: INZ will assess your application, and if approved, you will be granted residency.

Processing Time:

Typically between 6 to 12 months.

Cost:

Application fee: Approximately NZD $2,400.

Advantages:

Permanent residency allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
Access to public healthcare and education.
Pathway to New Zealand citizenship after 5 years.

2. Essential Skills Work Visa

Class: Temporary Visa (with a pathway to Residence)

Purpose: For skilled workers who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer but are not eligible for a Skilled Migrant Visa.

Eligibility Criteria:

Job Offer: You must have a full-time job offer from a New Zealand employer for a position that matches your skills.
Skills & Qualifications: The job must be in an occupation that matches your skills, and your qualifications should align with the position.
English Proficiency: Must meet minimum language requirements (typically IELTS score of 5.0-6.5).
Salary Threshold: The employer must offer a salary that meets New Zealand's market rate for the role.
Health & Character: Must meet health and character requirements.

Application Process:

Employer’s Role: The employer may need to provide evidence that no New Zealand citizen or resident is available for the role.
Apply for the Work Visa: Submit the application, including proof of the job offer and qualifications.
Decision: INZ will evaluate your application and grant or deny the visa.

Processing Time:

1–3 months depending on the application complexity.

Cost:

Application fee: NZD $495 to NZD $1,000 depending on visa duration and category.

Advantages:

Allows temporary work in New Zealand with a job offer.
Potential pathway to residency via the Work to Residence visa.

3. Partner Visa

Class: Residence Visa

Purpose: For individuals who are married to or in a de facto relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident.

Eligibility Criteria:

Relationship Status: You must be in a genuine, stable relationship (married or in a de facto relationship) with a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Proof of Relationship: Provide evidence of your relationship, such as joint financial commitments, shared living arrangements, or children together.
English Proficiency: Not always required but may be requested if you are from a non-English-speaking country.
Health & Character: Must meet health and character requirements.

Application Process:

Submit Evidence: Provide documentation proving your relationship and commitment.
Medical & Character Checks: Required for both partners.
Submit Application: After proving your relationship’s authenticity, submit the application for residency.

Processing Time:

Typically between 12 to 18 months.

Cost:

Application fee: NZD $1,500 to NZD $2,500, depending on complexity.

Advantages:

The visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
Immediate access to New Zealand healthcare and other benefits.
Pathway to citizenship.

4. Work to Residence Visa

Class: Temporary Visa (Pathway to Residence)

Purpose: This visa allows people on temporary work visas (like the Essential Skills Work Visa) to apply for permanent residence.

Eligibility Criteria:

Work Visa Holder: Must hold an Essential Skills Work Visa or Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa.
Job in a Skill Shortage Occupation: The job you hold must be on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) or be from an accredited employer.
Work Duration: You typically need to work in the same occupation for 24 months.
Salary Requirements: The job must meet New Zealand's minimum wage or above for skilled occupations.

Application Process:

Work Visa: Start by obtaining a relevant work visa.
Work in the Role: Hold the job for at least 2 years.
Submit Application: Apply for the Work to Residence Visa once eligibility is met.

Processing Time:

6 to 12 months for approval.

Cost:

Application fee: NZD $1,700–$2,500.

Advantages:

Provides a pathway to permanent residence after 2 years of employment.
Allows you to live and work in New Zealand for an extended period.

5. Investor Visa

Class: Residence Visa

Purpose: For individuals who wish to invest a significant amount of money in New Zealand to help stimulate the economy.

Eligibility Criteria:

Investment Amount: There are two categories:
- Investor 1 Category: NZD $10 million for at least 3 years.
- Investor 2 Category: NZD $3 million for at least 4 years.
Business Experience: Applicants must demonstrate business or investment experience.
English Language: No formal language requirement for Investor 1, but Investor 2 applicants must show at least a basic understanding of English.
Health & Character: Must meet health and character standards.

Application Process:

Invest in New Zealand: Make the necessary investment in New Zealand businesses or assets.
Application Submission: Submit the residency application with investment and business experience documentation.
Approval: INZ evaluates your application for compliance and investment evidence.

Processing Time:

Around 6 to 12 months for Investor 2 and 1 to 2 years for Investor 1.

Cost:

Investor 2 application fee: NZD $3,000.
Investor 1 application fee: NZD $4,000–5,000.

Advantages:

You can live, work, and invest in New Zealand.
Your family members can be included in the application.
Pathway to residency and citizenship.

6. Entrepreneur Work Visa

Class: Temporary Visa (Pathway to Residence)

Purpose: For people who wish to establish or buy a business in New Zealand.

Eligibility Criteria:

Business Plan: You need to provide a comprehensive business plan that outlines your business idea, financial projections, and the skills you bring.
Investment: Minimum investment of NZD $100,000.
Experience: Must have prior business experience.
Health & Character: Required for all applicants.

Application Process:

Business Setup: Set up the business or investment as planned.
Visa Application: Submit your business plan along with supporting documents.
Approval & Operation: Work in your business and apply for residence after 2 years.

Processing Time:

6–12 months for initial visa.

Cost:

Application fee: NZD $1,700 to NZD $2,500.

Advantages:

Provides a pathway to permanent residency after successfully operating the business for 2 years.
You can bring your family members.

7. Family Category Visas

Class: Residence Visa

Purpose: For family members of New Zealand citizens or residents.

Eligibility Criteria:

Sponsor: Must be a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Family Relationship: Applicants can include spouses, dependent children, parents, or siblings (under certain circumstances).
Health & Character: Must meet health and character standards.

Application Process:

Family Sponsorship: The New Zealand citizen or resident sponsors the application.
Documentation: Provide documentation proving the relationship.
Submit Application: Apply through INZ.

Processing Time:

Typically 6 to 12 months depending on the family category.

Cost:

Application fee: NZD $1,500 to NZD $2,000.

Advantages:

Allows families to reunite and live together in New Zealand.
The sponsor can also assist the applicant in securing work and housing.