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Want to immigrate to New Zealand? Here’s what you need to know before you apply.
The New Zealand immigration system is complicated. You’re bound to have questions. This page is designed to help you to gain a basic understanding of what your options are if you’re looking to live or work in New Zealand. We’ve summarised the different visa types available as well as what problems applicants often run into when lodging their application.
The immigration system is run by a government department known as Immigration New Zealand, or INZ.
INZ is looking to attract permanent migrants who have:
Temporary visas may be granted to:
For some Residence Visa application types, INZ uses a points system to evaluation whether a person qualifies.
For those seeking residence based on their skills and qualifications, a job offer is essential as is an ability to pass an English language test.
New Zealand offers a range of visa options, depending on whether you want to work here, study, invest, or simply enjoy a visit. The first step of any visa application is to assess the categories available to you and their basic criteria. Here is a quick overview of visa types:
Migrants don’t always need a visa to apply for, or be offered, a job.
Employers can accept applications and make a job offer to someone who doesn’t yet have a visa with work entitlements. You just need to make your job offer conditional on them getting a visa before they start work. Your written job offer is one of the documents needed for their visa application.
Unsure which visa type you should apply for? You may qualify for more than one category. Contact us for expert advice on the best pathway forward.
I want to live in New Zealand. What visa types can I apply for? While there are many visa types, each with their own requirements, here are the main pathways you should consider.
If you have a qualification comparable to what New Zealand employers expect, you can work here temporarily or permanently.
Immigration policies can be complex and difficult to follow, with some rules changing often or being unclear. In our experience, applicants often submit incomplete documentation or fail to make a clear and compelling case that will satisfy the applicable rules.
Keep in mind: The average immigration officer processes a large number of applications at once and will not advise you on the suitability of your application before processing your fee. It is your responsibility to prove to the immigration officer that you meet the criteria for the visa you are applying for.
Common problems that cause applications to be declined include:
No refunds are given for applications that are declined – this is true of all categories – so it makes sense to figure out if you’re eligible before you apply and make sure you’re applying for the correct visa type.
If you’re concerned about any of the above issues, consider seeking professional guidance.
People’s dreams of life in a new country are at the heart of everything we do. We use our immigration law expertise to help our clients realise their goals, and we can help you too.
We will:
We can clarify what you need to complete your visa application and help you get it right the first time, saving you time, money, and frustration. Principal lawyer Aaron Martin has decades of experience in helping applicants with complex situations, even reuniting families in the wake of COVID-19 border closures.
Got questions? We can provide expert advice. Need help with your application? We’ll make sure it’s correct and complete, making it easier for INZ to assess your suitability and increasing your chances of approval.
Aaron and the team at NZIL can help make your dream of living in New Zealand a reality. Contact NZIL to discuss how we can help you.
