Visa Pathways
Your pathway to New Zealand starts here.
New Zealand immigration law is complex and regularly updated. The right visa pathway depends on your individual circumstances, your goals, and the information you are able to provide. We help you understand your options and prepare a clear application strategy.
Work Visas
Work in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a range of work visa pathways for skilled migrants, including Accredited Employer Work Visas, Green List pathways, and specialist entry categories. The right pathway depends on your occupation, qualifications, and your employer's accreditation status.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Green List — Straight to Residence
- Green List — Work to Residence
- Skilled Migrant Residence
- Open Work Visas
Student Visas
Study in New Zealand
Student visas allow you to study at a New Zealand educational institution. Pathway programmes, English language study, undergraduate degrees, and postgraduate research all have specific requirements and conditions.
- Student Visa — full-time study
- Pathway programme visas
- English language study
- Partner and dependent child visas
- Post-study work rights
Family Visas
Partner & Family Visas
Whether you are joining a partner, sponsor, or family member who lives in New Zealand, there are specific visa pathways for relationships, dependent children, and parent categories. Evidence requirements are specific and must be carefully prepared.
- Partner of a New Zealander Visa
- Partner of a Worker or Student
- Dependent Child Visa
- Parent Retirement Visa
- Family Reunification
Residence Visas
Live Permanently in New Zealand
Permanent residence gives you the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. Pathways include skilled migrant residence, Green List direct residence, and family-based residence. Each has specific criteria and evidence requirements.
- Skilled Migrant Residence
- Green List — Straight to Residence
- Residence from Work
- Family-Based Residence
- Investor Residence
Visitor Visas
Visit New Zealand
Visitor visas are for tourism, family visits, or short-term stays. Conditions apply and extensions may be possible in limited circumstances. If you are planning to work or study, a visitor visa is not appropriate.
- Visitor Visa (standard)
- Multiple Entry Visitor Visas
- Extensions
- Working Holiday Visas
- Transit Visas
Sports & Performer Visas
Sports & Recognised Performer Visas
Professional athletes, coaches, support staff, and recognised performers in sport can enter New Zealand to compete or take up employment through specific visa categories. Accreditation status, contract terms, and the nature of the role all determine the right pathway.
- Specific Purpose Work Visa — Sport
- Accredited Employer Work Visa for athletes
- Coaches and support staff visas
- Short-term performance and event visas
- Residence pathways for long-term professionals
Investment & Retirement
Invest or Retire in New Zealand
New Zealand has active and passive investor visa categories, as well as long-term visitor options that may suit retirees. Each category has specific financial thresholds, conditions, and compliance obligations.
- Active Investor Plus Visa
- Long-Term Investor Category
- Parent Retirement Visa
- Long-term Visitor Visa
- Retirement pathway planning
This page provides general information only and does not constitute immigration advice. Visa requirements change regularly. Always seek advice from a licensed immigration adviser before making any decision.
Take the Next Step
Not sure which pathway is right for you?
Every immigration situation is different. A consultation with a licensed adviser is the best way to understand your specific options and what you need to do next.