The Highly Skilled Worker Visa in New Zealand (also known as the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa) offers a pathway to residency and employment for qualified individuals with skills and experience that are in demand in New Zealand.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Highly Skilled Worker Visa program in New Zealand provides an opportunity for skilled professionals to live and work in New Zealand permanently. This program is designed to attract talented individuals who can contribute to New Zealand's economy and fill skill gaps in various sectors.
Overview
A pathway to permanent residency and employment for skilled professionals in New Zealand
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals aged 55 or younger with work experience and a job offer that meet New Zealand's skill shortages. Skills must be proven on a points-based system
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
Permanent residence
Months to Visa
4-6 months
Physical Presence Requirement
No specific requirement, but employment in New Zealand is expected
Availability
Moderate
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit an Expression of Interest, and if selected, you will be invited to apply for the visa.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How is the points-based system for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa calculated?
Can I bring my family members with me on a Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
How long does it take to process a Highly Skilled Worker Visa application?
Can Highly Skilled Worker Visa holders apply for New Zealand citizenship?
benefits
The program offers numerous advantages for skilled professionals looking to establish their career in New Zealand's dynamic environment.
High quality of life
Beautiful natural environment
Good work-life balance
No language test required
Long term program (compared to other Skilled Worker Visas)
.svg)
Online Submission Allowed
Visa-Free Travel Countries
156
Passport Validity
10 years, 5 years for children
Overview
New Zealand offers excellent career opportunities, high quality of life, and a supportive environment for skilled professionals.
Benefits:
Advantages:
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How is the points-based system for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa calculated?
Can I bring my family members with me on a Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa?
How long does it take to process a Highly Skilled Worker Visa application?
Can Highly Skilled Worker Visa holders apply for New Zealand citizenship?
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
Not applicable
Personal documents+Proof of employment or Job Offer+Academic background+Professional background+Proof of meeting English language standards
Not applicable
Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required
REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Highly Skilled Worker Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their qualifications and professional experience.
PROCESS
Initial Assessment
• Verify qualification requirements
• Check salary thresholds
• Review work experience criteria
Employer Sponsorship
• Secure qualifying job offer
• Obtain employer sponsorship
• Complete labor market test (if required)
Documentation
• Gather qualification certificates
• Prepare employment contract
• Complete skills assessment
• Obtain professional registrations
Application
• Submit visa application
• Complete health checks
• Provide biometrics
Relocation
• Receive work visa approval
• Register with authorities
• Complete workplace onboarding
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Proof of accommodation
A clean criminal record is required, confirmed through police clearance certificates from the applicant's country of origin and any country of residence in the past 5 years
Not applicable
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
102
Overall Rank
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
.svg)
Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
.svg)
Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
.svg)
Eligibility Requirements
Based on entry requirements
.svg)
Program Stability
Based on years of activity
.svg)
Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
.svg)
Rankings
Safety
4
Cost of Living
13
Quality of Life
10
.svg)
Healthcare Quality
26
Internet Speed
23
.svg)
Human Freedom
2
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
Explore alternative pathways to live and work
Learn about living costs, culture, healthcare, and other essential information about relocating to Ireland. Explore all available immigration pathways and find the best option for you.
View Country Guide
Need help?
get started
.svg)
.svg)
