Working in New Zealand

Under the Immigration Act 1987, every person who wishes to immigrate to New Zealand needs to apply for residence. Residence entitles you to live, study and work indefinitely in New Zealand. If you wish to leave New Zealand temporarily, you must have a valid returning resident's visa in your passport to ensure your re-entry to New Zealand as a resident. You will be issued your first returning resident's visa when residence is approved.

Work Visa
A work visa is an endorsement in your passport. It allows you to enter or re-enter New Zealand. It also shows you have permission to travel to New Zealand and that you may be granted a work permit when you arrive. The visa may be for one or more journeys.

Work Permit
A work permit is an endorsement in your passport, which allows you to work in New Zealand. It will state the expiry date and conditions of your permit. The conditions may include the type of employment, the employer's name and the location in New Zealand at which you are permitted to work.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this page is NOT designed to help you understand New Zealand Government Immigration Policy. Please visit the New Zealand Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs site at www.immigration.govt.nz for a detailed account of their immigration policy.