On this page, we will explain the purpose of the New Zealand Temporary Work Visa (Specific Purpose or Event), who is eligible, and how to apply. For expert assistance with your immigration matter, contact Reiss Edwards, immigration lawyers and solicitors in London.
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 skilled migrant workers who are keen to experience the stunning beauty, laid-back nature, and great work opportunities in New Zealand. Not all migrant workers intend to stay in New Zealand permanently, however. Each year, many foreign workers travel to New Zealand for a specific purpose or work-related event. On this page, we will explain the purpose of the Specific Purpose Work Visa, who is eligible, and how to apply.
The New Zealand Specific Purpose work visa is intended for foreign workers who need to travel to the country for a specific purpose or event. In practice, this visa type is used to allow:
In order to make a successful application, candidates must show they possess the necessary skills and experience required for the specific assignment in New Zealand. The length of stay on a Specific Purpose work visas depends on the reason for travelling to NZ (see below for more details on this), however, visas may be issued from anywhere between three months and three years.
There are a number of eligibility rules which must be met in order to acquire an NZ Specific Purpose Work Visa; specifically, applicants must:
The specific eligibility criteria differ depending on the reason for travelling to New Zealand. For example, for an installer (e.g. of farm machinery or IT equipment) to acquire a visa, it must be shown that installation was a condition of the purchase of the machinery or equipment. In most cases, a valid offer of employment will be required, including for secondments and intra-company transfers. For those wishing to look into investment opportunities in NZ, they will need approval in principal for an Investor 1 Resident Visa, Investor 2 Resident Visa, or a Parent Retirement Resident Visa.
The application process for the NZ Essential Skilled Work visa is completed on the Immigration New Zealand website. The application process is as follows:
Step 1
In some cases, before you can apply, you will need to request an ‘Employer Supplementary Form’ completed by your employer. You will also need to gather evidence of:
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 require any further documents or other evidence, they will let you know. Once your application is processed, you will be notified of the outcome.
The current application fee for an NZ Specific Purpose Work visa is NZD$530; this is not refunded if the application is refused. A passport handling fee and courier fee may also be payable.
At present, NZIS advise that most applications for an NZ Specific Purpose Work visa are processed within three months.