On this page, we will explain the purpose of the New Zealand Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, who is eligible, and how to apply.
With a population of just under five million people, New Zealand is highly reliant on foreign skills and labour for its economic growth. Thankfully, there is no lack of talented foreign workers who are keen to experience the stunning beauty, laid-back nature, and great work opportunities in New Zealand. Every year, thousands of hopeful candidates apply for a visa to immigrate to New Zealand in the hope they will be granted permission to live and work in the country. On this page, we will explain the purpose of the New Zealand Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, who is eligible, and how to apply
The New Zealand Talent (Accredited Employer) work visa is for foreign nationals who have been offered a full-time paid job from an accredited employer. Crucially, this visa also offers a route to settlement in New Zealand as those who hold the Talent visa for two years and work with their employer can apply for permanent residence. It is important to note that applications under this route will cease on 31st October 2021 and will be replaced by the new Accredited Employer Work Visa from 1st November 2021.
NZ Essential Skills Work visa holders are able to:
Unfortunately, the New Zealand Talent (Accredited Employer) work visa does not automatically include dependant family members (i.e. partner or dependent children), but it will be able to apply separately for suitable visas based on their relationship to the main visa holder.
There are a number of eligibility rules which must be met in order to acquire a New Zealand Talent (Accredited Employer) Work visa, which vary depending on your country of origin; some of the requirements which may apply to you include:
The application process for the NZ Talent (Accredited Employer) work visa is completed on the Immigration New Zealand website. The application process is as follows:
Step 1
Step 2
If applying online, you will then need to upload any documents required to support your case and pay the application fee.
Step 3
If NZIS requires any further documents or other evidence, they will let you know. Once your application is processed, you will be notified of the outcome.
You will be advised by NZIS when you apply which documents to upload to support your case. These may include the following:
The current application fee for an NZ Essential Skills work visa is NZD$635; this is not refunded if the application is refused. In addition, you may have to pay a passport fee and courier fee.
At present, NZIS advises that applications are being processed within 75 days.
Reiss Edwards have the resources and expertise to assist with all aspects of New Zealand immigration. If you need assistance with your New Zealand Talent visa application or any other immigration matter, feel free to contact our Immigration Solicitor for help.