Making the move

Work visa options

Eligibility for the right visa is based on factors such as whether your skills match a shortage in New Zealand, how long you want to stay, and your age, work experience and qualifications.

• Find out which work visas you’re eligible for.  
• Find out about visas for investors.

Tips before applying for a work visa

• Find out if your job skills are in demand.
• Provide all information required – incomplete paperwork will cause delays.
• To holiday in Auckland first to see what our city is like, you might need a visitor visa. However, travellers from more than 50 countries don’t need a visa to stay fewer than three months – check your passport and visa requirements.
• Not sure of the visa application process? Consider using a licensed immigration advisor.

More about work visas

Checklist

Use this handy pre-departure checklist so you can hit the ground running on arrival.

Support for when you arrive

Settling into a new country can feel overwhelming, but there are plenty of support services and networks that can help make it easier.

A.R.M.S. – Auckland Regional Migrant Services Charitable Trust
Provides information about life in Auckland, helps people find jobs and learn English, and runs settlement programmes and workshops.

Hearts and Minds
Specific services for Auckland’s North Shore to help you settle into your new community.

Chinese New Settlers Services Trust
Offers bilingual programmes for new Chinese and Korean residents.

New Zealand Newcomers Network
Find local support groups for getting connected with your new community.

Citizens Advice Bureau
Advice, information and help for all citizens, including a specific service for new migrants.

Auckland Libraries
Auckland libraries throughout the region are a great local resource too, with regular free events, books available in more than 30 languages, reading groups, classes and special assistance for people who have English as a second language.

For more support services and networks visit New Zealand Now.

Useful services

• New Zealand Now – provides general information about finding work in New Zealand, including tips on CVs and job interviews
• Workhere – connects global top talent to Auckland and New Zealand-based companies with in-demand jobs
• Careers New Zealand Regional Job Matcher – match your skills and interests to jobs in Auckland
• New Kiwis – gives free guidance on how to find work in your industry
• Working in New Zealand –  to help you search for jobs and employers
• If you’re an overseas student wanting to work in Auckland, visit the Immigration New Zealand website for more information.
• Find flatmates or list your room on Trade Me