New Zealand Work Visa- Work & Grow in NZ with Confidence

What Is the New Zealand Work Visa?

The New Zealand work visa allows professionals who are skilled or semi-skilled to work, live, and explore career options in New Zealand. The most common avenue is through an accredited employer work visa (AEWV), which allows workers with a genuine job offer from an accredited employer to apply for a work visa. Other visa options include the New Zealand working holiday visa, partner or family work visas, or the specific purpose work visa (SPWV) for temporary or project-based work. A New Zealand visa offers several advantages: A right to work and earn income in New Zealand, the ability to include family members in some cases, and a possible pathway to residency.

Key 2025 Changes & Reforms You Must Know

In 2025, New Zealand's work visa policy underwent important revisions, improving flexibility for employers and prospective employees:

• Removed Median Pay Requirement (March 2025): Median pay conditions are no longer a requirement for the AEWV and SPWV visa categories. A nominal pay rate of NZD $23.50 or the market rate is required as of April 1, 2025.
• Reduced Experience Requirement: The requirement is now set at a lesser 2 years instead of 3 years of relevant experience.
• Expanded Visa Term: Visas under the ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 will be granted for up to 3 years.
• Introduced Interim Work Rights (initiated in April 2025): If a potential applicant falls within any approved roles, such as a student or work visa, they will be allowed to work while the application is being reviewed.
• Family Sponsorship Modify: New hourly rates for partner visas and an additional income threshold of NZD $55,844.
• NOL or National Occupation List: New Zealand will transition from ANZSCO to NOL starting in November 2025, which will impact skill levels and occupation classifications.

Eligibility Criteria (Post-Reform Snapshot)

To qualify for a New Zealand work visa, applicants must: here's that New Zealand work permit visa requirements includes:

• A job offer from an accredited employer.
• Need to meet the new NOL or ANZSCO skill level requirements.
• Demonstrate you have a minimum of two years' experience in the position.
• Obtain a job offer with a salary that is at least at labour market rates and the New Zealand minimum wage.
• Pass character and health checks in accordance with New Zealand immigration standards.
• Meet financial requirements if you are applying as an applicant on behalf of dependent family members.

Types of Work Visas & Pathways

Depending on your goal and type of work, there are several visa options and pathways available:

• The main visa for most skilled and semi-skilled work is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
• A specific purpose work visa (SPWV) applies to short-term, project-based or highly skilled work.
• Once approved for the AEWV, individuals can work in New Zealand under an interim visa whilst the AEWV is being processed.
• A Work to Residence Visa progression is available for professionals to work towards permanent residency.
• For dependents accompanying skilled workers, there are family or partnership visas.

Application Process: Step by Step

Here's the steps that you need to closely follow.

• Check accreditation: Verify that your employer has accreditation through the AEWV programme.
• Job Check: To authenticate the validity of the job, the employer must pass the Job Check.
• Careful documentation: Gather documents to explain your qualifications, what your job offer entails, and your experience.
• Apply Online: Complete an online application for the AEWV or whichever visa you are interested in applying for.
• Upon Granting of the Visa: Stay compliant by abiding by the terms of your visa, reporting any change of employment status, and by timely renewing your visa.

Visa Duration, Conditions & After Arrival

The duration of your New Zealand work visa will be determined by your job type and skill level: For lower-skilled positions (ANZSCO Level 4 & 5), the duration is a maximum of three years’ work for the specified position and employer. Your partners/dependents will need to satisfy the new employment/income criteria. If you meet the eligibility requirements you can consider Work to Residence pathways once you arrive.

Why These Changes Matter?

The 2025 reforms represent a new era of New Zealand Immigration where it is more appealing and accessible to applicants. There are easier entry criteria for mid-level workers with 2 years of experience, and wages have been reformed to open tariffs for more positions. Longer periods of visa endorsement allow for career security and for families to be able to relocate too. Plus, employees have continued rights to temporary work and continuing income. The switch to NOL has changed visas to align with actual market demand.

Why Choose Welkin Migration - Our USPs?

Wondering what makes us a top choice when it comes to visa application? Here are the reasons:

• 2025 - Current Proficiency: We track every change to New Zealand work permit visa criteria to make you meet the latest AEWV and SPWV criteria.
• AI-Enabled Eligibility Tool: Our software connects the right visa type with your skills, position, and salary.
• Acceleration in Compliant Documentation: Professional reviews and files are considerably more likely to be approved and avoid delays.
• End-to-End Support: We take care of everything from family eligibility to temporary visa rights.
• Transparent and Open Communications: Clear timelines, complete pricing transparency, and dedicated case managers keep you up to date on your application.

Work. Rest. With Welkin Migration, you can grow in New Zealand with assurance.