New Zealand Work Permit

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

• Job Offer: Secure a valid job offer from Dream Path Overseas or another employer in New Zealand.
• Visa Category: Determine the appropriate visa category (e.g., Essential Skills Work Visa, Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, etc.).

Step 2: Employer Requirements

• Accreditation: Ensure that your employer is accredited if you are applying for a Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa.
• Labor Market Test: For some visa categories, the employer may need to show they have tried to hire a New Zealander before offering the job to a foreign worker.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Job Offer: Official job offer letter from your employer.
• Employment Agreement: Signed employment agreement detailing your role, salary, and working conditions.
• Qualifications and Experience: Copies of your educational certificates and proof of relevant work experience.
• Passport: Valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Health and Character: Medical certificate and police clearance certificate from your home country and any other country you have lived in for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

• Online Application: Complete and submit the work visa application form online through the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
• Application Fee: Pay the required visa application fee.
• Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary documents, including your job offer, employment agreement, qualifications, and medical and police certificates.

Step 5: Application Processing

• Processing Time: The processing time varies depending on the visa category and the completeness of your application. It can range from a few weeks to several months.
• Additional Information: Be prepared to provide additional information or attend an interview if requested by INZ.

Step 6: Decision

• Approval: If your application is approved, you will receive a work visa label or electronic visa confirmation.
• Travel to New Zealand: Arrange your travel plans to New Zealand. Ensure that you carry all relevant documents with you.

Step 7: Post-Arrival Requirements

• IRD Number: Apply for an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number. This is necessary for tax purposes.
• Bank Account: Open a bank account in New Zealand.
• Compliance: Adhere to the conditions of your visa, such as working for the specified employer and within the specified role.

Step 8: Ongoing Compliance and Renewal

• Monitor Visa Expiry: Keep track of your visa expiry date and ensure timely renewal if you plan to continue working in New Zealand.
• Pathway to Residency: Explore pathways to residency if you plan to stay in New Zealand long-term, such as applying for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.