Visas

New Zealand Visa Pathways

13 New Zealand visa categories with current eligibility, documents required, fees, processing timelines, and FAQs. Each page is reviewed against current INZ policy by an IAA-licensed adviser.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is New Zealand's primary skilled work visa, tied to an accredited employer. Substantial 2025 reforms apply.

Green List Residence Pathways (Tier 1 and Tier 2)

Green List residence for skilled workers in shortage roles. Tier 1 grants residence on approval; Tier 2 needs 24 months of qualifying NZ employment first.

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (SMC6)

Skilled Migrant Category (SMC6) is New Zealand's points-based residence pathway, scored across registration, qualifications, income, and work experience.

Permanent Resident Visa

Permanent Resident Visa: residence with no expiry or travel limits, available after 2 years on a Resident Visa meeting one of five commitment methods.

NZ Post-Study Work Visa: Eligibility, Duration & Extension

NZ Post-Study Work Visa guide: who qualifies, how long the PSW lasts, why there is no extension or renewal, and how it bridges study to residence.

Partnership Work Visa NZ: Partner of a New Zealander

Partnership Work Visa NZ and the wider Partner of a New Zealander pathway (Visitor, Work, Resident): who qualifies, costs, and the evidence INZ requires.

Partner of a Worker Work Visa NZ

Partner of a Worker Work Visa NZ: for partners of NZ work visa holders. The supporting visa must be on the eligible list; most AEWVs qualify, wage tests apply.

Parent Resident Visa

Parent Resident Visa for parents of NZ citizens and residents. Selected via quarterly ballot, 2,500 places a year; sponsors must meet income thresholds.

Visitor Visa NZ: Partner, Dependent Child & Family

Visitor Visa NZ for short stays: tourism, partner, dependent child, and parent family visits. Up to 6 or 9 months. Bona fide visitor and intentions tests apply.

Working Holiday Visa

Working Holiday Visa for young adults from agreement countries. Standard 12 months; extended schemes for Canada (23) and the UK (36). Once per lifetime.

Active Investor Plus Visa (AIP)

Active Investor Plus (AIP) is New Zealand's capital-based residence pathway, with Growth (NZD $5m) and Balanced (NZD $10m) investment categories.

Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV)

Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) covers time-bounded NZ work outside AEWV: transfers, secondments, performers, and specialists. Not a residence path.

Section 61: Request for Special Direction

Section 61 is a discretionary request to the Minister for a visa when you are unlawfully in New Zealand. Not an appeal. Speak to a licensed adviser first.