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What this service covers

This service covers advice and representation for a range of New Zealand work visas, including the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Specific Purpose Work Visas, and Post-Study Work Visas.

For many people, employment is a central pathway to remaining in New Zealand, whether on a temporary basis or as a step toward residence. I assist with assessing eligibility, preparing applications, and ensuring supporting documentation aligns with current Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requirements.

Who this is for

This service is suitable for individuals who:

  • Have a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer

  • Are applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa

  • Are coming to New Zealand for a defined project, event, or specialist role

  • Have recently completed a qualification in New Zealand and wish to remain and work

  • Are using employment as part of a longer-term residence strategy

 

It is also relevant for applicants whose employers require guidance with the job check or immigration requirements connected to hiring migrant workers.

 

Common concerns

Applicants commonly seek clarity around:

  • Whether their role and employer meet AEWV requirements

  • Salary thresholds and employment conditions

  • Skills, qualifications, and experience alignment

  • The temporary nature and conditions of Specific Purpose Work Visas

  • Eligibility for a Post-Study Work Visa after completing a New Zealand qualification

  • How a work visa fits into a future residence pathway

 

Given the policy detail involved, small misunderstandings about visa conditions or eligibility can affect outcomes if not addressed early.

 

How the process works

The process begins with a careful assessment of your circumstances, including your job offer, qualifications, and long-term plans in New Zealand.

For the Accredited Employer Work Visa, the employer must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand, and the role must meet criteria such as being genuine, full-time, and paid at or above the relevant wage thresholds (subject to current policy settings). In some cases, a labour market test or job check may also be required.

For a Specific Purpose Work Visa, the application focuses on the defined task, project, or event you are coming to New Zealand for, with clear conditions around the nature and duration of the work. This visa is often appropriate for specialists or professionals undertaking short-term, purpose-driven roles.

For a Post-Study Work Visa, eligibility is assessed based on the New Zealand qualification completed, including the level of study and recognition of the course. This visa allows graduates to gain practical work experience in New Zealand and, in some cases, supports future residence applications.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the application and supporting evidence are prepared and submitted, followed by ongoing communication with Immigration New Zealand as required.

What information is usually required

Depending on the visa type, documentation commonly includes:

  • A valid job offer and employment agreement

  • Evidence of employer accreditation and job check (for AEWV, where applicable)

  • Proof of qualifications, skills, and relevant work experience

  • Evidence of salary and employment terms meeting policy requirements

  • Details of the specific project or purpose of work (for Specific Purpose visas)

  • Qualification certificates and academic records (for Post-Study Work Visas)

  • Passport and identity documents

 

Additional information may be requested by Immigration New Zealand based on the nature of the role or visa category.

How I provide support

I provide structured, detail-focused support throughout the work visa process, including assessing eligibility, identifying potential risks, and preparing a well-documented application.

Where relevant, I also assist with employer-related aspects such as understanding accreditation and job check requirements. For graduates and short-term specialists, I ensure the visa category selected accurately reflects the purpose of stay and complies with current immigration instructions.

This approach is intended to provide clarity not only for the immediate application, but also for any longer-term immigration plans.

Next steps

If you are considering applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa, Specific Purpose Work Visa, or Post-Study Work Visa, an initial consultation can help determine the most appropriate pathway and your likelihood of success.

You are welcome to make contact by email to discuss your situation and whether a work visa application is suitable for your circumstances.

WORKING IN NEW ZEALAND

Work visas

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