Introduction
Finding a visa sponsorship job in New Zealand unlocks not only a rewarding career but also the chance to experience the country’s world-renowned quality of life. You’ll benefit from:
- Competitive salaries
- Strong worker protections
- Pathways to permanent residence
This guide will walk you through:
- Overview of work visa New Zealand 2025 options
- Where and how to search for visa sponsorship jobs New Zealand
- Detailed breakdown of top visa categories
- Actionable application strategies
- A comparative table of visa features
- FAQs addressing your most pressing questions
Ready? Let’s dive in!
work visa New Zealand 2025
In 2025, New Zealand offers several pathways for skilled migrants:
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – your primary route if you have a job offer from an accredited employer.
Cost: NZD $1,540 (immigration.govt.nz)
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa – apply if you score enough points based on age, experience, and qualifications.
Cost: From NZD $6,450 (immigration.govt.nz)
Green List roles – fast-track residence for in-demand occupations listed by Immigration New Zealand. (immigration.govt.nz)
Key update: From 10 March 2025, the median wage requirement for AEWV roles was removed; the only threshold is the national minimum wage (NZD $23.50/hr as of 1 April 2025). (immigration.govt.nz)
visa sponsorship jobs New Zealand
Where to search
- SEEK – Over 150 visa sponsorship listings updated daily. (seek.co.nz)
- Indeed – 79+ openings with sponsorship options. (nz.indeed.com)
- LinkedIn – Network-driven job leads
- Recruitment agencies like Velocity Global for global talent placement. (velocityglobal.com)
What employers seek
- Evidence of relevant qualifications
- English proficiency (IELTS, OET)
- Skills aligned with New Zealand’s skill shortage lists—especially healthcare, IT, engineering
Accredited Employer Work Visa New Zealand
To qualify for an AEWV, you need:
- A job offer from an accredited employer
- Skills, qualifications, and experience matching the role
- Minimum 30 hours/week employment contract
Visa highlights:
- Stay up to 5 years (or 3 for ANZSCO level 4/5) (immigration.govt.nz)
- Work and study privileges
- Eligibility to support family visas
Application process at a glance:
- Employer obtains accreditation and job check
- You receive a job check token
- Apply online via RealMe®
- Pay NZD $1,540 fee and submit documents
- Decision in ~5 weeks (80% cases)
Source: Immigration NZ (immigration.govt.nz)
Skilled Migrant Category New Zealand
The SMC Resident Visa uses a point-based system:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your profile
- Points: Awarded for age, skilled employment, work experience, qualifications
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you score ≥160 points
Why choose SMC?
- Direct residence pathway
- Flexible job offers (no specific employer link)
Key criteria:
- Under 56 years old
- Job offer from accredited employer (or experience in NZ)
- Meet health and character standards
Summer 2023 reforms re-opened the SMC with updated thresholds. (immigration.govt.nz)
New Zealand Green List occupations
The Green List targets urgent skill shortages. If your role is listed and you qualify, you can:
- Get immediate residence or after 2 years of working
Top in-demand roles:
| Occupation | ANZSCO Code | Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 254499 | Healthcare |
| Software Engineer | 261313 | IT & Communications |
| Early Childhood (Primary) Teacher | 242111 | Education |
| Electrician | 341111 | Construction |
Complete Green List: Search on Immigration NZ. (immigration.govt.nz)
NZ work visa application requirements
Before applying, prepare:
- Updated CV tailored to NZ format
- Cover letter highlighting sponsorship need
- Qualification certificates (E.g., NZQA assessment for overseas degrees)
- English test scores (IELTS ≥6.5 or equivalent)
- Police clearance and medical exam results
Keep digital copies organized for quick upload.
NZ job market visa sponsorship 2025
Sector highlights
- Healthcare: Ongoing nurse and allied health shortages
- IT & Tech: Demand for developers, data analysts
- Engineering & Construction: Civil, mechanical engineers
- Agriculture & Forestry: Skilled farm managers, veterinarians
Salary expectations
- Registered Nurse: NZD $60K–$85K/yr
- Software Engineer: NZD $70K–$120K/yr
Tailor your search to roles with published salary bands meeting visa criteria.
best websites for visa sponsorship jobs New Zealand
- SEEK: https://www.seek.co.nz/visa-sponsorship-jobs (seek.co.nz)
- Indeed: https://nz.indeed.com/q-visa-sponsorship-in-new-zealand-jobs.html (nz.indeed.com)
- LinkedIn: Utilize ‘Easy Apply’ filters
- Glassdoor: Company reviews & salary insights
- Recruitment agencies: Velocity Global, Fragomen Insights (fragomen.com, velocityglobal.com)
tips to secure visa sponsorship in New Zealand
- Optimize your CV: Use Kiwi CV templates; emphasize quantifiable achievements
- Network effectively: Connect with recruiters and alumni via LinkedIn
- Highlight in-demand skills: Reference the Green List and skill shortage lists
- Get credential assessments: NZQA for overseas qualifications
- Prepare for interviews: Research common NZ interview practices; be punctual and personable
Table: Comparing NZ work visa pathways
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Duration | Cost (NZD) | Residence Pathway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEWV | Job offer, accredited employer | 3–5 years | $1,540 | Stream to residence (via other visas) |
| Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa | Points-based EOI, skilled work | Indefinite | $6,450 | Direct permanent residence |
| Green List roles | Qualify in listed occupation | 2 years (then R) | Fees vary | Immediate or 2-year residence |
Actionable Application Roadmap
- Research roles aligned with your skills on SEEK and Green List.
- Reach out to accredited employers or agencies like Velocity Global.
- Gather documents: CV, certificates, English test, police record.
- Apply for job checks (employer) and AEWV (you).
- Track application via Immigration Online.
- Prepare for relocation: housing, banking, health insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I bring my family on an AEWV?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can apply for visas matching your AEWV length if you meet income thresholds. (immigration.govt.nz)
Q2: How long does an AEWV application take?
Usually ~5 weeks (80% processed in this timeframe). (immigration.govt.nz)
Q3: Do I need to pass an English test?
Yes. Most work visas require IELTS ≥6.5 (or equivalent). Check role‑specific requirements on job listings.
Q4: What fees apply for employer accreditation?
Employers pay NZD $775 (standard) or $1,280 (high‑volume) to become accredited. (immigration.govt.nz)
Q5: Which sectors have highest visa sponsorship demand?
Healthcare, IT, engineering, agriculture, and construction are priority areas.
Conclusion
Securing a visa‑sponsored job in New Zealand in 2025 hinges on thorough preparation, targeted applications, and leveraging the right resources. By following this guide’s actionable steps and tapping into Accredited Employer Work Visa, Skilled Migrant Category, and Green List pathways, you’ll be well on your way to building your future in Aotearoa.
Start today. Your NZ career adventure awaits!