Imiatlas

Oceania

New Zealand immigration and visa guide

New Zealands immigration framework features the Green List Straight to Residence pathway, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), and Skilled Migrant Category.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

Processing time
4 – 16 weeks
Passport validity
6+ months
Points-based system
Yes
Digital nomad friendly
No

Visa options in New Zealand

Key requirements

  • Job offer from an INZ-Accredited Employer paying at or above the median wage
  • For Green List roles: required occupational registration or specific qualification matching tier requirements
  • IELTS General 6.5+ or equivalent English proficiency certification
  • Full medical certificate and police certificates for every country lived in for >12 months

How to apply for a New Zealand visa: step by step

  1. 1

    Job Offer & Employer Accreditation

    Secure job offer from an INZ-accredited employer matching Green List or SMC criteria.

    2 - 6 weeks

  2. 2

    Online INZ Application & E-Medical

    Lodge application online with verified NZQA credential evaluation and police clearances.

    4 - 8 weeks

  3. 3

    Resident Visa Grant & Permanent Resident Visa

    Receive Resident Visa, leading to Permanent Resident Visa (with indefinite travel rights) after 2 years.

    Post-arrival

Official government links

Frequently asked questions

What is unique about New Zealand Permanent Resident Visas?

Once you hold a New Zealand Resident Visa for 2 years and meet commitment criteria, you can obtain a Permanent Resident Visa which grants permanent return travel rights with no ongoing physical presence requirements to maintain it.

Find a licensed adviser

For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.

General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Immigration New Zealand (INZ) on the official website before applying.