

New Zealand Work Permit Guide for 2024
Discover work permit options for New Zealand, including permit types, eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, and processing times. Pathvisas assists applicants and New Zealand employers in navigating the permit process, ensuring compliance with immigration policies.
New Zealand offers work permits across various categories. Key options include the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. For certain work permits, applicants must be sponsored by accredited New Zealand employers, who are licensed to hire foreign workers.

Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
A. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV allows accredited New Zealand employers to sponsor skilled foreign workers. This visa is suitable for medium- to long-term employment and is tied to a specific employer and job.
Step-by-Step Process for the AEWV
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Receive a Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
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Only accredited New Zealand employers are authorized to sponsor workers under this visa. The role must align with the skill level required for the AEWV.
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Check Eligibility
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Meet basic criteria such as skill qualifications, relevant experience, and English proficiency.
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Collect Required Documents
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Passport
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Proof of qualifications and work experience
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English language test results (if applicable)
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Health insurance and medical certificates
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Character certificate
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Submit Application Online
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Applications are processed through New Zealand Immigration’s online platform.
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Complete Health and Character Checks
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Complete these checks if required for your specific application.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing times for the AEWV generally range from 2-4 months, depending on the occupation and applicant’s country of residence.
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Types of Work Permits &
Application Processes
B. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
This visa is for skilled workers who wish to live and work permanently in New Zealand. It uses a points-based system that assesses factors such as age, education, work experience, and job offer in New Zealand.
Step-by-Step Process for Skilled Migrant Visa
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Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
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Register your skills, qualifications, and experience through the New Zealand Immigration EOI pool. Applicants with the highest points may receive an invitation to apply for residency.
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Meet Points and Eligibility Requirements
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A minimum of 180 points is generally required to be selected from the EOI pool, with additional points awarded for a valid job offer in New Zealand.
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Gather Required Documents
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Passport
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Skills assessment
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English language test results (if required)
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Medical and character certificates
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Apply for Residency if Invited
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After receiving an invitation, submit a detailed application for residency through New Zealand Immigration.
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Complete Health and Character Assessments
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Undergo these assessments as mandated.
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Processing and Decision
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Processing times for Skilled Migrant Visas vary, generally ranging from 6-12 months.
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How Pathvisas Assists Work Permit Applicants
Pathvisas offers guidance at each step of the New Zealand work permit application process, from consultation to post-approval support.
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Personalized Consultation: We help you determine which visa aligns best with your skills and goals.
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Document Preparation: Pathvisas assists in collecting and preparing documents to avoid delays.
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Application Tracking: We manage the submission and monitor your application’s progress, providing updates as needed.
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Post-Arrival Support: Once your permit is approved, we assist with settling in and understanding your employment rights.

Pathvisas Recruitment Solutions for New Zealand Employers
Pathvisas assists New Zealand employers in sourcing and sponsoring skilled international talent, helping employers meet accreditation standards and navigate the hiring process.
Employer Services Include:
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Talent Sourcing: We partner with recruitment agencies to connect employers with qualified foreign candidates.
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Accreditation and Sponsorship Assistance: Pathvisas supports employers in obtaining accreditation and preparing necessary documentation.
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Efficient Recruitment and Visa Processing: Our team handles the recruitment and sponsorship process, ensuring a seamless experience for employers and workers.
Start Your Journey with Pathvisas – Contact us to learn more about New Zealand work permits and recruitment services.