Elsie UdohIf you want to work abroad and are in the IT, healthcare, or engineering sectors, New Zealand offers exciting opportunities for you with its expanded work visa options.
What’s that about? You might ask. Well, it’s simply a visa that allows you to live and work in one of the most serene and career-friendly nations that is not so talked about.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis article has everything you need to fully understand the process of applying for a New Zealand work visa, including the in-demand jobs that make you eligible. So if you’ve ever considered moving abroad for work, then here’s how to begin.
Steps to Getting a New Zealand Work Visa
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
As always, before pushing through with any application, you have to verify that you meet the qualifications to proceed. The same is true here.
New Zealand has a list called the Long-Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL). This list was recently updated to list 66 in-demand jobs in New Zealand.
Of course, you will need to confirm that your occupation falls on that list to apply. Another thing to keep in mind is that each job has its own unique requirements, so be sure to confirm that too before applying.
Regardless of the requirements of each occupation on the list, the fundamental things you’ll need are:
- Be under 55 years old.
- Have relevant qualifications or work experience in an in-demand field.
- Prove your English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certification).
- Pass health and character checks.
Before we move on to the next step, let’s get back to that list. There are 66 in-demand professions that appear on the job list. The key industries are:
Healthcare
- Registered Nurses (Aged Care, Mental Health)
- General Practitioners and Specialists
- Midwives
Construction and Engineering
- Civil Engineers
- Electricians
- Welders and Fabricators
Information Technology (IT)
- Information Technology
- Software Developers
- IT Business Analysts
- Cybersecurity Specialists
If your occupation meets the list, then congratulations; you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Find a Job in New Zealand
The next key requirement is to get a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
This can be a difficult process and might take a while, but with the right effort, you’ll get it. Here are some places to find job offers:
- Search on Job Portals: This method will always come in handy. Thankfully, you don’t have to travel all the way to New Zealand with a brown envelope in hand, walking from one company to another to find a job offer. Nah, we’re way past that.
Social media is a great place to find these job offers instead. Use platforms like LinkedIn to find opportunities and reach out to potential employers. You will find platforms like Seek and TradeMe Jobs useful in helping you find the right job offer.
- Tailor Your CV: Your CV is usually one of your best shots when seeking a job offer. Make sure that it properly highlights your relevant experience and achievements according to New Zealand’s requirements.
- Network: Step out of your comfort zone. Join forums, online communities, and other professional groups related to your field to connect with potential employers.
Don’t hesitate to reach out because many companies might be recruiting, and you never can when your next message intending to network lands in a recruiter’s DM who finds you relevant to the business.
READ ALSO: How to Apply for China’s Latest Scholarship: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
If the future seems bright for your job offer, then it’s time to start gathering the documents you’ll need.
Here’s a checklist to guide you:
- A valid passport.
- Job offer letter from a recognised New Zealand employer.
- Verified qualifications and work experience records.
- Medical certificates proving your fitness to work.
- Police clearance certificates.
Step 4: Apply for the Work Visa
Once your documents are ready, then you can begin the application process. Here’s how:
- Choose the Right Visa Type: If you’re a skilled worker, there are four work visa opportunities available to you.
These are:
- Essential Skills Work Visa: This is issued to those filling positions that New Zealand citizens or residents cannot fill. This visa can lead to longer-term visa options and allow you to bring your family along with you to New Zealand.
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa: This is a points-based visa that offers a direct path to residency for qualified workers in high-demand fields such as those that appear on the list.
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): This is available for those employed by government-accredited employers in New Zealand.
- Long-Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa: This is specifically for individuals filling roles on the LTSSL. This visa offers a route to residency through the Work to Residence pathway.
Note: The most sought-after work visa for skilled workers is usually the accredited employer work visa.
After you’ve selected the right visa type, the next step to apply for a work visa is:
- Submit Your Application Online: Create an account on New Zealand Immigration’s official website and fill out the required forms.
- Pay the Fees: You can research the visa fee to pay based on your visa type here.
- Attend your biometrics appointment for capture.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
This ranges from 2–6 weeks after your application. Keep an eye on your application status via the online portal.
Step 6: Plan Your Move to New Zealand
At this point, you should have received a “Congratulations! Your visa has been approved. That only means one thing—it’s time to prepare for your new life in New Zealand.
Here’s how you can get your preparation in full swing:
- Find affordable accommodation options that are near your workplace.
- Budget for essentials like rent, transportation, and groceries.
- Learn about New Zealand’s unique culture and workplace etiquette to blend in easily.
Pathway to Permanent Residency in New Zealand
If you qualify for a New Zealand work visa, then you can transition to permanent residency after a few years.
You can do this through the Work to Residence pathway.
This lets you, as a skilled worker, settle in New Zealand, contribute to the workforce, and secure long-term residency for you and your families.
With the work-to-residence visa, you can stay in New Zealand indefinitely. However, note that to apply for this, you must be 55 years of age or younger, and the visa costs from NZD $6450.
Final Thoughts
You can proceed to start your application for a New Zealand work visa today if you meet the requirements.
If you submit the right documents, pay the right fees, and check all the other boxes, then you just might be moving to New Zealand in the new year.
Elsie Udoh is an SEO content writer who specialises in writing engaging stories that resonates with diverse audiences. She studied mass communication at the Lagos State University.
