Visa Pathways
Work in New Zealand.
New Zealand's work visa system has changed significantly. Most temporary work visas are now employer-led, meaning the right pathway for you depends heavily on your prospective employer's accreditation status and the nature of your role.
Available Pathways
Which work visa category applies to you?
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Most commonThe main NZ temporary work visa. Your employer must be accredited by INZ and the role must pass a Job Check before you can apply.
- Job offer from a NZ accredited employer
- Role passed the Job Check
- Relevant qualifications and experience
- Health and character requirements
Green List Occupations — Tier 1
Direct residenceCertain high-demand occupations allow a direct residence application without needing to pass through a temporary work visa first.
- Role recognised on Green List Tier 1
- Employment in NZ or offer of employment
- Required qualifications and/or professional registration
- Health and character requirements
Skilled Migrant Category
Points-based residenceA points-based residence visa for skilled workers with employment in New Zealand. Points are awarded for skills, qualifications, and age.
- Skilled employment in New Zealand
- Points-based scoring on skills, qualifications, age
- Expression of Interest selected
- Health and character
Specific Purpose Work Visa
SpecialistsFor workers brought in for a specific project or purpose — such as film productions, sporting events, or specialist technical roles.
- Specific approved purpose
- Employer or event organiser support
- Generally short-term and specialist roles
- Health and character
Start with the right pathway and a clear strategy
Work visa applications are complex. One mistake can be costly.
Immigration New Zealand processes thousands of applications. Small errors in documentation, an incorrect visa category, or a missed requirement can result in a declined application, a stand-down period, or restrictions on future applications. Head Start Visas identifies the right pathway first, then prepares a complete, correct application on your behalf.
Work Visa FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions — Work Visas
Straight answers to the most common questions about this visa pathway. If your question is not here, ask us directly.
INZ Articles
Relevant Immigration New Zealand Guidance
The following articles on the Immigration New Zealand website provide detailed official guidance on this visa type. We recommend reading these alongside professional advice.
Accredited Employer Work Visa — Immigration New Zealand
The official INZ fact sheet covering the Accredited Employer Work Visa — eligibility, conditions, application steps, and what accreditation means for the hiring process.
Green List Occupations — Immigration New Zealand
The official Green List of occupations in shortage in New Zealand, including Tier 1 (direct residence) and Tier 2 (work-to-residence) pathways and qualification requirements.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa — Immigration New Zealand
Detailed information about New Zealand's points-based residence visa — how points are calculated, the Expression of Interest process, and eligibility criteria.
Post Study Work Visa — Immigration New Zealand
Official INZ guidance on the Post Study Work Visa — who qualifies, how long the visa lasts, and what graduates are permitted to do in New Zealand.
Work Visa Conditions — Immigration New Zealand
INZ guidance on work visa conditions, employer changes, and what to do if your circumstances change while you are in New Zealand on a work visa.
The following are official Immigration New Zealand resources providing detailed information about work visa categories. For advice on which pathway is right for your specific circumstances, speak with a licensed immigration adviser.
Useful Resources
Other Information of Interest
Useful external resources to help you plan, research, and prepare for your New Zealand journey.
Job Market
Trade Me Jobs — New Zealand Job Board
New Zealand's largest job listing site. Research role availability, salary expectations, and employer demand across all industries and regions.
SEEK New Zealand — Job Search
Comprehensive New Zealand and Australia job listings. Useful for understanding industry demand, required qualifications, and competitive salary benchmarks.
Qualifications
NZQA — New Zealand Qualifications Authority
Official guidance on how overseas qualifications are assessed for New Zealand equivalency — relevant for skilled migrants and Green List occupations.
Professional Registration Bodies in New Zealand
Information about New Zealand's regulated occupations and the professional registration bodies that must approve your credentials before a work visa is granted.
Living in NZ
New Zealand Living Costs — New Zealand Now
A practical guide to the cost of living in New Zealand — housing, transport, food, and utilities across different cities and regions.
IRD — Tax for New Migrants
Inland Revenue Department guidance for people new to New Zealand — IRD numbers, tax residency status, KiwiSaver, and what to expect from the NZ tax system.
Take the Next Step
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you are planning your future in New Zealand, bringing your family, hiring a migrant employee, or responding to an immigration concern, start with a professional consultation.