Work in New Zealand
Build Your Career in a Safe, Scenic, and Skilled Economy
New Zealand is a dream destination for skilled professionals seeking a peaceful lifestyle, thriving job market, and stunning natural beauty.
With a growing need for international talent across multiple industries, the country offers various work visa options to help foreign workers live and work legally in New Zealand.
Why Migrate and Apply for a New Zealand Work Visa?
✔️ High Demand for Skilled Workers – New Zealand has shortages in healthcare, IT, trades, education, and engineering.
✔️ Work-Life Balance – A relaxed lifestyle, flexible work hours, and family-friendly policies.
✔️ Clean, Safe, and Scenic Living – Consistently ranked as one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world.
✔️ Permanent Residency Pathway – Most work visas offer a clear path to New Zealand PR and citizenship.
✔️ Family Inclusion – Spouses and children can join you and enjoy full access to education and healthcare.
✔️ English-Speaking Environment – No language barriers for English-speaking professionals.
Who Can Apply for a New Zealand Work Visa?
✔️ Skilled Professionals with Job Offers – Those with a valid job offer from a New Zealand employer in an in-demand occupation.
✔️ Graduates of New Zealand Institutions – International students who studied in New Zealand can apply for a Post Study Work Visa.
✔️ Essential Skill Workers – Workers in sectors with labor shortages, even without high formal education.
✔️ Construction, Health, and IT Workers – Actively recruited under Green List roles or Accredited Employer Work Visas.
✔️ Seasonal & Agricultural Workers – Short-term visa options for workers in farming, fruit picking, and tourism sectors.
Benefits and Advantages of Working in New Zealand
✔️ Competitive Salaries with Social Benefits – Earn well and enjoy paid leave, pension contributions, and public healthcare.
✔️ Path to Residency & Citizenship – Multiple work visa types lead to Permanent Residency within 2–3 years.
✔️ Free Schooling for Children – Dependent children may access public schools at no extra cost.
✔️ Work Rights for Spouses – Partners of skilled workers can apply for open work visas.
✔️ Cultural Diversity and Inclusion – A multicultural society welcoming skilled migrants from around the world.
✔️ Work in Global Companies & Startups – New Zealand's job market includes multinational firms and fast-growing sectors.
Eligibility & Requirements for New Zealand Work Visa
✔️ Job Offer from a New Zealand Employer – Mandatory for most skilled work visa categories.
✔️ Occupation on the Green List or Shortage List – Your job role should be listed as in demand.
✔️ Skill and Qualification Match – Your qualifications and work experience should match the position.
✔️ English Language Proficiency – IELTS or equivalent proof of English language ability.
✔️ Health and Character Requirements – Medical checkup and police clearance are mandatory.
✔️ Minimum Salary Thresholds – Depending on the job category and visa stream.
Basic Documents Checklist for New Zealand Work Visa
✔️ Valid Passport
✔️ Employment Offer Letter from a New Zealand Employer
✔️ Proof of Qualifications and Work Experience
✔️ CV/Resume in New Zealand Format
✔️ English Language Test Results (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
✔️ Police Clearance Certificate
✔️ Medical and Chest X-Ray Certificate
✔️ Proof of Relationship (for dependent family members)
✔️ Proof of Funds (if required for visa stream)
Visa Fee & Processing Time
✔️ Faster processing available for Green List occupations.
✔️ Delays may occur if additional verification is needed or documents are missing.
✔️ Fees are non-refundable and vary by visa subclass and applicant location.
| Visa Category | Fee (EUR) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) | $750 | 20–60 days |
| Post Study Work Visa | $495 | 40–60 days |
| Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa | $4290 | 6–12 months |
| Seasonal Work Visa (RSE Scheme) | $325 | 2–4 weeks |
Occupations in Demand in New Zealand
✔️ Healthcare & Nursing – Doctors, registered nurses, aged care workers, radiologists
✔️ Construction & Engineering – Civil engineers, project managers, plumbers, electricians
✔️ Information Technology (IT) – Software developers, cybersecurity experts, system analysts
✔️ Agriculture & Farming – Horticulture workers, farm technicians, livestock specialists
✔️ Education Sector – Secondary teachers (science, maths, technology), early childhood educators
✔️ Hospitality & Tourism – Chefs, hotel managers, tour guides
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a New Zealand Work Visa
✔️ Step 1: Secure a Job Offer – Get an offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
✔️ Step 2: Check Eligibility – Ensure your role appears on the Green List or Essential Skills List.
✔️ Step 3: Collect Required Documents – Prepare passport, experience letters, qualifications, and police/medical clearance.
✔️ Step 4: Submit Application Online – Apply via the New Zealand Immigration website.
✔️ Step 5: Attend Health Check & Biometrics – If required, complete your medical exam and biometrics.
✔️ Step 6: Wait for Decision – Most work visas are processed within 3–8 weeks.
✔️ Step 7: Travel to New Zealand – Upon visa approval, arrange your relocation and start your job.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Groceries | $400 – $800 |
| Utilities & Internet | $150 – $250 |
| Public Transport | $120 – $250 |
| Healthcare Insurance | $80 – $200 |
| Miscellaneous | $200 – $400 |
Cost of Living in New Zealand for Work Visa Holders
✔️ Living costs are higher in Auckland and Wellington, moderate in Christchurch or Hamilton.
✔️ Most public transport and healthcare services are subsidized for work visa holders.
PR Transition Options for New Zealand Work Visa Holders
✔️ Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa – Apply for PR after gaining sufficient points through skilled work.
✔️ Straight to Residence Visa – For occupations on Tier 1 of the Green List, allows PR immediately upon arrival.
✔️ Work to Residence Visa – Available for Tier 2 Green List occupations; PR after 24 months of employment.
✔️ Long-Term Skill Shortage Pathway – Some roles qualify for PR after 2 years of full-time work.
✔️ Family PR Transition – Dependents may be included in the PR application once the primary applicant is eligible.
Employer Sponsorship Programs in New Zealand
✔️ Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – Employers must be accredited by NZ Immigration to sponsor foreign workers.
✔️ Sector Agreements – Some industries (e.g., aged care, hospitality, agriculture) have special pathways with lower wage thresholds.
✔️ Green List Sponsorship – Roles on the Green List are prioritized for sponsorship and often include PR pathways.
✔️ Regional Sponsorships – Employers in regional areas may offer jobs with relocation and housing assistance.
✔️ Fast Track Residence Support – Certain employers can directly sponsor PR applications after hiring.
Regional Programs for Work Opportunities in New Zealand
✔️ Regional employers often offer relocation packages and housing assistance.
✔️ Less competition and faster visa approvals in many regional areas.
✔️ Regional PR pathways available under certain skilled categories.
| Region | Key Industries & Job Focus |
|---|---|
| Auckland | IT, finance, education, healthcare, construction |
| Wellington | Government, public sector, tech, creative industries |
| Canterbury (Christchurch) | Engineering, construction, logistics, healthcare |
| Waikato (Hamilton) | Agriculture, dairy, manufacturing |
| Otago (Dunedin) | Education, research, hospitality |
| Bay of Plenty | Horticulture, food processing, aged care |
| Occupation | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| Registered Nurse | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| Construction Project Manager | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Electrician / Plumber | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| Chef | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Early Childhood Educator | $48,000 – $70,000 |
Salary Insights for Foreign Workers in New Zealand
✔️ Salaries vary by location, experience, and employer type.
✔️ Workers in Green List occupations often receive above-average pay and perks.
✔️ Salaries are negotiable and subject to fair employment standards.
Fast Track Application Tips for a New Zealand Work Visa
✔️ Apply Under Green List Occupations – These are prioritized for quick processing and PR pathways.
✔️ Use an Accredited Employer – Speeds up visa approval and improves reliability of job offers.
✔️ Complete Documentation Early – Incomplete paperwork causes major delays.
✔️ Check Your Salary Thresholds – Make sure your offer meets visa-specific wage requirements.
✔️ Submit Online via Immigration NZ – Faster than paper-based applications.
✔️ Work with a Licensed Immigration Advisor – Reduces risk of errors and refusals.
Testimonials & Success Stories
Our Client Have Trusted
Us for our work
We’re proud to have helped thousands achieve their dream of settling abroad. Our success stories, high approval rate, and transparent processes have built a solid community of happy clients
“I had a positive experience with the immigration services. Milan and Sahil Sharma (Case Manager) guided me through every step, clearly explaining documentation and providing timely updates. I'm grateful for their support and would recommend them to anyone needing immigration assistance.”
“Countrywide Visas delivered exactly what they promised! They helped me secure my Canadian work visa smoothly, with no complications. Their clear, step-by-step guidance and complete transparency made the entire process stress-free and easy to navigate. Truly a reliable and professional team.”
“I'm happy to share that my Australia PR visa was approved in just five months. Thanks to Pooja Ma'am for her outstanding support and guidance. I truly appreciate Countrywide Visas' professionalism and would gladly recommend their services to others.”
“Countrywide Visas delivers on its promise of reliable timelines, efficiently processing applications according to a set schedule. This consistency offers clients clarity, confidence, and peace of mind throughout the immigration process, making them a trusted partner in achieving visa-related goals.”
“What sets Countrywide Visas apart is their ability to find innovative solutions. They approach challenges creatively, ensuring each application is handled smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a seamless experience for clients aiming to achieve their immigration goals with confidence and ease.”
“Countrywide Visas restored my confidence when I needed it most. After experiencing fraud with another agency, I was cautious—but this team proved to be 100% genuine. They handled my documentation flawlessly and offered constant support. Truly a commendable and trustworthy service.”
“Countrywide Visas made the entire process feel effortless. They handled my documentation with professionalism and offered timely support. Having faced fraud before, I was skeptical—but this team changed everything. Today, I’m happily placed in a job that matches my skills and aspirations.”
Contact with Us
Talk to India’s Trusted Immigration Experts – We’re Just a Call Away
Need professional advice on your visa profile? Our experts are available to answer all your queries with zero consultation fees.
Success Stories
From Hope to Reality: Our Canada PR Journey
My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visas—such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.My wife and I just received our Canadian PR visas—such a surreal moment! Huge thanks to Countrywide Visas for their professional and transparent support throughout. The document checklist helped a lot. Highly recommend them to anyone planning to migrate abroad.
Mr. Aditya
10 January 2018
Hurrey!! PR Visa Confirmation
I’m incredibly grateful to Countrywide Visas for their professional guidance throughout my Canadian PR journey. Their timely execution and dedicated support made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Big thanks to the case managers—I couldn’t have done it without you! Highly recommend Countrywide Visas to anyone pursuing immigration.
Ms. Tanu Sharma
20 December 2018
Dream Come True – I’m Moving to Canada!
Just received my passport—truly grateful to Countrywide Visas! Special thanks to my case manager, who guided me every step of the way, even when things got tricky with document submissions. Their expertise and support made all the difference. Highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable immigration services.
Abhishek
25 July 2018
Grateful for Exceptional Service and Support
Dear Countrywide Visas,I’m extremely grateful for your assistance in obtaining my Canadian PR visa. Every agent involved was highly cooperative, guiding me through each step, from document preparation to WES evaluation and medical submission. Thanks to your efforts, I received my invitation and visa in record time. Highly appreciate all your support.Regards,V.V.K.
Mr. Viswan Kalarikkal
10 October 2017
Thank You for Your Support and Guidance
Dear Mamta,I’m thrilled to share that I’ve successfully obtained my PR, and I owe it all to your guidance. Your expertise and Countrywide Visas’ professionalism made the entire process smooth and transparent. I truly appreciate your support and will gladly recommend your services to others.Kind Regards,Harsh Chandola
Mr. Harsh Chandola
10 January 2018
A Smooth Journey with Countrywide Visas
I began my journey with Countrywide Visas in November 2016, starting with the eligibility points calculation, which I successfully passed. The documentation process for Express Entry was tough due to my work schedule, but the Countrywide Visas team was patient and supportive. Special thanks to my case manager for the timely updates, which made the whole process easier. By October 2017, my visa was stamped, and I’m grateful for the continuous support and dedication from the team. Highly satisfied with the service!
Mr. Yashodhan
10 October 2018
Exceptional Support for My Canadian PR Journey
A huge thank you to Countrywide Visas for their invaluable support throughout my Canadian PR process. From the initial consultation to the final approval, my case manager was incredibly patient, thorough, and always ready to help. She made the entire process smooth with her expert guidance and timely reminders. I’m deeply grateful for the professional and seamless experience, and I will continue to recommend Countrywide Visas to others.
Mr. Nishant Kumar
17 January 2018
We're proud to work with our preferred partners
