Work & Settle in New Zealand

One of the world’s most liveable nations with a welcoming immigration system and strong demand for skilled professionals. Discover clear pathways to residency across healthcare, agriculture, engineering, technology, and more.
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- Why New Zealand

Why New Zealand Is the Smart Move

New Zealand consistently ranks among the most desirable countries in the world for quality of life, safety, and opportunity. The government actively welcomes skilled migrants each year, offering a stable economy, stunning environment, and one of the most straightforward residency pathways available globally.

$65K+

Average Annual Salary

Skilled workers in New Zealand enjoy strong wages, with salaries rising steadily across high-demand sectors.

50,000+

Residence Visas Granted Yearly

New Zealand grants tens of thousands of residence visas annually to meet its growing skilled workforce needs.

Free

Public Healthcare Access

Residents and eligible visa holders in New Zealand can access government-funded healthcare services at no cost.

Free

Schooling for Children

Children of eligible visa holders can attend state schools in New Zealand free of charge, ensuring quality education.

Visa Categories

Find the right pathway for you

New Zealand offers one of the most straightforward and accessible immigration systems in the world. Whether you have a job offer or are applying through points-based assessment, there is a pathway suited to your profile. Visthara’s immigration specialists will evaluate your background and recommend the most suitable visa option for you.

Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

A points-based residency visa for skilled workers with qualifications and work experience in demand in New Zealand. Points are awarded for age, employment, qualifications, and work experience. A strong score leads directly to permanent residence.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Work in New Zealand with a confirmed job offer from an accredited employer. This is the main work visa for most skilled migrants and serves as the primary stepping stone to permanent residence after meeting minimum requirements.

Resident Visa

New Zealand's permanent residency status grants you the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the country without restrictions. After holding residence for a set period, you may apply for a New Zealand Permanent Resident Visa.

Family Reunification Visa

Join a New Zealand citizen or resident as a partner, spouse, or dependent child. The family visa pathway allows eligible relatives to reunite and build a stable life together in New Zealand with full work rights.

Green List Visa

For occupations facing critical shortages including doctors, nurses, engineers, and teachers the Green List offers a fast-track to residency. Tier 1 roles can apply for residence immediately without a prior work visa.

Working Holiday Visa

For young professionals aged 18–30 from eligible countries, the Working Holiday Visa allows you to live and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months. It is an excellent way to experience the country before transitioning to a longer-term visa.

Recruitment Focus

In-demand industries in New Zealand

New Zealand is facing significant labour shortages across multiple industries, driven by rapid infrastructure growth and an expanding economy. This creates exceptional opportunities for skilled foreign workers to find quality, well-paying employment with a clear route to permanent residency.

Automotive, Aeronautics & Mobility

Catering & Hospitality

Construction

Energy

Financial Institutions & Consulting

Food & Beverage

Healthcare

Logistics & Transport

Manufacturing

Public Services & Administration

Retail Sales & Services

Technology

Our Process

How Visthara gets you there

Visthara is a trusted immigration partner guiding you through every stage of the New Zealand immigration process. Our team ensures you are fully prepared when you apply for your visa at the right time. Visthara’s comprehensive services handle every step so you can focus on the life ahead.
Step 1

Profile Assessment

We evaluate your qualifications, work experience, and immigration history to identify the strongest New Zealand visa and residency pathway for you.

Step 2

Job Matching

We connect you with accredited New Zealand employers who are actively recruiting skilled foreign workers in your field and level of experience.

Step 3

Visa Guidance

Our compliance team ensures you meet all visa requirements, helping you avoid the errors and omissions that cause delays or rejections.

Step 4

Documentation Support

We help you prepare, verify, and submit all required documents from employment contracts to skills assessments accurately and on time.

Step 5

Post-Landing Support

Our support continues after your visa is approved. We guide you through arrival, IRD number registration, and settling into your new life in New Zealand.

Checklist

Documents you'll need

Prepare these documents early to avoid delays in your application process.

Canada is facing significant labour shortages across multiple industries, driven by an ageing population and rapid economic growth. This creates exceptional opportunities for skilled foreign workers to find stable, well-paying employment with a direct route to permanent residency.

Valid passport

Minimum 2 years validity from the date of application

Valid passport

All degrees, diplomas, and academic records may require ECA evaluation

Work experience reference letters

On company letterhead, confirming role, duties, salary, and tenure

Language test scores (IELTS / CELPIP)

Results must be within 2 years of the application date

Medical examination report

Conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician

Police clearance certificate

Required from every country where you have lived for 6+ months

Job offer letter (if applicable)

Employer-signed offer on company letterhead, specifying role and salary

Bank statements (proof of funds)

Minimum 2 years validity from the date of application

Updated CV / Resume

Canadian-format resume highlighting all relevant skills and experience

Photographs (passport size)

Recent photos meeting IRCC specifications for size and background

Common questions about New Zealand

We address the most important questions our clients ask before beginning their New Zealand journey. For personalised advice, we recommend speaking with one of our approved Visthara advisors about working and settling in New Zealand.
  • Do I need a job offer to move to New Zealand?
    It depends on the visa. The Accredited Employer Work Visa requires a confirmed offer from an accredited employer. However, points-based pathways like the Skilled Migrant Category may not require one if your score is strong enough. Visthara will advise the best route for your profile.
  • Do I need a visa to apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
    You must have a job offer from a New Zealand accredited employer before applying. Visthara's job-matching service can help connect you with licensed employers actively hiring in your industry.
  • Which IELTS score is required for New Zealand?
    Most visa categories require an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or above, with no band below 6.0. Some occupations or employer requirements may vary. Visthara will guide you through the correct language requirement for your chosen pathway.
  • Can my family accompany me to New Zealand?
    Yes. Most New Zealand work and residence visas allow you to include your partner and dependent children in your application. They will have full rights to live, work, and study in New Zealand.
  • How long does the New Zealand residence process take to finish?
    Processing times vary by visa type and application completeness, typically ranging from 4 to 12 months. Visthara's documentation support ensures your application is accurate and complete to minimise delays.
  • How does Visthara help with job placement in New Zealand?
    Visthara partners with accredited New Zealand employers across high-demand sectors. We match your skills and experience to live vacancies, prepare your CV for the local market, and connect you directly with employers to improve your placement success.