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Veda Burman Study Abroad Content Specialist
Study Abroad Content Specialist | Updated On - Feb 8, 2025
New Zealand has over 80 types of work visas, each designed for specific employment situations. Indians must choose the visa that aligns with their work purpose, before applying. Many work visas require a valid job offer from a New Zealand employer. Some work visas can also lead to residency, allowing you to live, study, and work in New Zealand indefinitely. To qualify for such visas, you must have in-demand skills, experience, and qualifications that contribute to the country's workforce.
The eligibility criteria for a New Zealand work visa vary depending on the visa type. You may qualify if you have a job offer, are coming for a specific work-related purpose, have a partner in New Zealand, or are part of a special work scheme. If you have studied in New Zealand, you may apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing you to stay and work for up to three years. Applicants must also meet age, health, character, and financial requirements. Before applying, ensure you check the latest visa conditions on the Immigration New Zealand website.
Know More: Jobs in New Zealand
New Zealand Work Visa Eligibility
New Zealand offers different work visas based on the applicant's purpose of stay. To be eligible for a temporary work visa, you must meet specific criteria. The key eligibility requirements include:
- Job Offer from a New Zealand Employer: You must have a valid job offer from an employer who is legally registered in New Zealand. The job should either be on the Green List (high-demand occupations) or an employer must prove that no suitable New Zealand citizens or residents are available for the role.
- Work-Related Purpose or Event: If you are coming to New Zealand for a specific short-term job, such as participating in a sports event, cultural performance, or specialized project, you may qualify for a Specific Purpose Work Visa.
- Partner-Sponsored Work Rights: If your partner holds a valid New Zealand Student Visa, or Work Visa, you may be eligible to apply for a visa that allows you to work in New Zealand. Eligibility depends on your partner’s visa type and occupation.
- Country-Specific Work Schemes: Citizens from certain countries, such as India, may qualify for specific work programs under bilateral agreements. Examples include the Working Holiday Visa for young travelers or seasonal work schemes.
- Post-Study Work Rights: If you have completed an eligible qualification in New Zealand, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, which allows you to work for up to three years in a job related to your field of study.
Each visa type has additional requirements, such as meeting English language standards, financial proof, and character and health checks. Always check the latest eligibility criteria according to the Immigration New Zealand website before applying.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Work Visa
Most New Zealand work visas can be applied for online. However, some country-specific work visas require a printed application form. Follow the steps below to apply for a work visa.
- Step 1: Check Visa Requirements: Before applying, review the visa criteria on the Immigration New Zealand website. Ensure you meet the eligibility conditions and have the required documents ready.
- Step 2: Create a RealMe Account: For most work visas, register for a New Zealand Government RealMe account to submit your application online.
Exception: A RealMe account is not required for a working holiday visa.
- Step 3: Submit Your Application Online: Log in to the INZ website and complete the application form.
- Upload supporting documents, including identity proof, job offer letter, and health or character certificates.
- Pay the visa processing fee, which varies based on visa type and applicant nationality.
- Step 4: Wait for Visa Processing: Processing times depend on the visa type and applicant volume.
- Immigration New Zealand may request additional documents or an interview.
- Step 5: Get an IRD Tax Number: Once your visa is approved, apply for an IRD number from Inland Revenue (IR).
- The IRD number is required for tax purposes and must be given to your employer when you start working.
- Apply online through the Inland Revenue website.
New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa Application
Post-Study Work Visa allows international students who have studied in New Zealand to stay and work in the country after completing education. The application process varies based on whether you apply online or through a paper application.
How to get New Zealand Work Permit From India?
Indian students can apply for a New Zealand work visa either online or through a paper application. The types of application and their corresponding details are as follows:
Online Application:
- Application Fee: NZD 1,670 (~INR 82,833) (includes a non-refundable immigration levy)
- Payment Methods:
- Credit/Debit Card: Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay
- Processing Time:
- 80% of applications processed within 2 weeks
- Customer Support:
- Phone Enquiries: +649-914-4100 / 0508-558-855
- Availability: Monday to Friday, 06:00 to 22:00
Paper Application:
- Application Fee:
- NZD 1,036 (~INR 51,387)
- Visa Application Centre (VAC) Service Fee:
- INR 2,000 (Non-refundable, payable at submission)
- Payment Methods:
- In-Person Submission
- By Post
- Processing Time:
- 80% of applications processed within 2 weeks
- Visa Application Centre (VAC) Details:
- Address (If applying from New Delhi):
- Concourse Floor, Baba Kadak Singh Marg
- Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place
- New Delhi - 110001, India
- Phone: +91-022-6786-6053
- Email: info.nzin@vfshelpline.com
- Website: www.vfsglobal.com
- Address (If applying from New Delhi):
- Submission Timings:
- Travel Agents: Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 13:00
- General Applicants: Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 15:00
- Phone Enquiries: Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 15:00
Note: Immigration New Zealand does not refund application fees if the visa is declined. Ensure all required documents are submitted correctly to avoid delays.
Check Out: Part-time Jobs in New Zealand
Document Requirements for New Zealand Work Visa
Before applying for a New Zealand work visa, you must gather and submit specific documents based on the visa type. All applicants must provide identity proof and meet character and health requirements. Missing documents may delay processing.
Identity and Good Character Documents:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: As per Immigration New Zealand (INZ) specifications.
- Police Clearance Certificate: Required if you have lived in any country for more than 5 years since turning 17. This proves you have no serious criminal record.
Age Requirements:
- Some work visas have age limit requirements.
- You may need to be within a specific age range or under a certain age to qualify.
Health Requirements:
- Medical Certificate: Mandatory for applicants staying in New Zealand for more than 12 months.
- Chest X-Ray: Required for applicants from countries with a high risk of tuberculosis or if staying longer than 6 months. The medical check must be done by an INZ-approved panel physician.
English Translations of Documents for New Zealand Work Visa
If your documents are not in English, you must provide certified translations. Accepted translation services include:
- The Translation Service of New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).
- An embassy or high commission.
- A professional translation agency.
Unaccepted Translators:
- The visa applicant or a family member.
- An immigration adviser assisting with the application.
Also Explore: MBA Jobs in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a variety of work visas, allowing skilled professionals, students, and temporary workers to contribute to its economy. For Indian applicants, visa fees and processing times vary based on the application mode, online or paper. Whether applying for a visa based on a job offer, post-study work rights, or partner sponsorship, you must meet age, health, and character requirements set by Immigration New Zealand. Always check for the latest immigration updates on the official New Zealand Immigration website before applying.
FAQs
Ques. How long does it take to process a New Zealand work visa?
Ans. The processing time for a New Zealand work visa depends on the visa type and applicant volume. For most temporary work visas, 90% of applications are processed within 8-12 weeks, while Accredited Employer Work Visas are usually processed in 20-30 days. Post-Study Work Visas take around 2 weeks for 80% of applications, but complex cases may take longer.
Ques. What is the cost of a New Zealand work visa for Indian applicants?
Ans. The visa fees vary depending on the visa type and application mode. The Post-Study Work Visa costs NZD 1,670 (~INR 82,833) for online applications and NZD 1,036 (~INR 51,387) for paper applications, with an additional INR 2,000 Visa Application Centre (VAC) service fee. Employer-assisted work visas like the Accredited Employer Work Visa cost NZD 750 (~INR 37,200).
Ques. Can Indian students work in New Zealand after completing their studies?
Ans. Yes, Indian students who complete an eligible qualification in New Zealand can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa. This visa allows graduates to work for up to three years in a job related to their field of study. To qualify, students must have studied a Level 7 or higher qualification and meet English language, health, and character requirements.
Ques. What are the top in-demand occupations for work visas in New Zealand?
Ans. New Zealand’s Green List includes high-demand occupations in sectors like healthcare, engineering, IT, and construction. Some top roles include registered nurses, software engineers, civil engineers, and electricians. Applicants with skills in these fields have better chances of obtaining an Accredited Employer Work Visa, which may also lead to residency opportunities.
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