Work Visas for New Zealand: which work visa is right for you?

New Zealand's work visas open the door to living and working here — but with several different pathways, each with its own requirements, working out which one is right for you isn't always straightforward. I've been through the immigration journey myself, so I understand both how the system works and how it feels to be on the other side of it. This page introduces the main work visa options; when you're ready, we'll look at your situation together.

There are several ways to work in New Zealand, and the right one depends on your situation — whether you already have a job offer, have just finished studying here, or have a partner who is a New Zealander or holds a visa themselves. Here are the main pathways.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The AEWV is New Zealand's main work visa, for people with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer. It works in three stages — the employer must be accredited, the specific job must pass a check, and then you apply for the visa itself. It can lead to longer-term options, including residence, depending on your role and pay.

Post-Study Work Visa

If you've completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand, the Post-Study Work Visa lets you stay on and work — often an important bridge between studying here and building the experience that can open further pathways. What you can get depends on what and where you studied.

Partner of a New Zealander

If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may be able to work here based on your relationship. These visas turn on showing a genuine and stable partnership, and — because they're built on your partner's settled status — they can offer a more secure footing and may connect toward residence over time.

Partner of a Work or Student Visa Holder

If your partner is in New Zealand on a work or student visa, you may be able to join them and work here too. This kind of visa is tied to your partner's — it generally lasts as long as theirs does, and depends on the type of visa they hold and the work they're doing.

Specific Purpose Work Visa

Some people come to New Zealand for a defined role or project that doesn't fit the standard categories — for example a specialist on a fixed assignment. These are assessed individually against the specific purpose you're coming for.

Not sure which of these fits you — or whether working here could lead to staying permanently? That's exactly what a consultation is for. You can also read about pathways to living in New Zealand permanently.

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