New Zealand work visa program
Migration Program Details & Application
Program Overview
Project Description and Fees
• Policy Background: New Zealand's skilled migration model follows a "work first, immigrate later" approach. The vast majority of permanent residency pathways require applicants to first gain work experience in New Zealand with a valid work visa; therefore, the work visa is the core entry point for skilled migration. In 2026, the New Zealand government explicitly reduced the skilled migration quota from 125,000 to 105,000, while simultaneously prioritizing the processing of Employer Sponsored Work Visas (AEWV), reflecting a "quality-first" immigration policy.
• Main types of work visas: The New Zealand work visa system covers multiple categories, each with different application requirements, fee structures, and scope of benefits. The table below briefly presents a comparison of the fees for various work visas in 2026:
Work visa application fees (New Zealand dollars) (approximately equivalent to RMB) Key features
Working Holiday Visa (WHV): NZ$670 + NZ$100 entry tax (approximately 3,437 RMB), valid for 12 months, allows you to work for any employer for a maximum of 6 months, but does not allow you to start your own business.
Employer-Sponsored Work Visa (AEWV): NZ$1,540 (approximately RMB 6,878). This is a mainstream employer-sponsored work visa, valid for up to 5 years, and eligible for permanent residency.
Post-study work visa (PSWV) from NZ$1,670 (approximately 7,460 RMB). Offers 1-3 years of work rights and requires no employer sponsorship.
Skilled migrant workers signed contracts worth NZ$1,614 (approximately 7,214 yuan) for work visas obtained through the skilled migration pathway.
Spouse work visa costs NZ$700-860 (approximately 3,128-3,843 RMB). The main applicant can apply together if they hold a qualifying visa.
The above fees are the official fees charged by the New Zealand Immigration Service in 2026, excluding additional fees such as medical examinations, police clearance certificates, and document translations.
Key policy changes in 2026:
• Detailed Employment Conditions for Open Work Visas (Effective April 20, 2026): Open work visas will be subject to two different employment conditions depending on the visa category. The first category (such as spouse work visas and Post Study Work Visas) allows holders to engage in any legal work, including self-employment or starting a company; the second category (such as Working Holiday Visas) requires holders to work as employees and prohibits them from starting or operating a company.
• The National Occupational List (NOL) has been significantly expanded (effective March 9, 2026): 47 new occupations at skill levels 1-3 have been added to the NOL, including head chefs, sous chefs, diesel mechanics, and radiographers. Employers can apply for AEWV Job Checks for these positions. Meanwhile, pet groomers, pet sitters, and kennel workers have been downgraded from skill level 3 to level 4, facing stricter application requirements and shorter stay periods.
• Median wage for immigrants increased (effective March 9, 2026): The median wage for immigrants will be increased to $35.00/hour. The starting salary threshold for applicants will be locked for life, and no further increases will be required.
• Short-term graduate work visa (launched in the second half of 2026): A new short-term graduate work visa with a maximum of 6 months of open work rights will be introduced for graduates who have completed NZQCF Level 5-7 courses but do not meet the PSWV qualification.
• Policy Background: New Zealand's skilled migration model follows a "work first, immigrate later" approach. The vast majority of permanent residency pathways require applicants to first gain work experience in New Zealand with a valid work visa; therefore, the work visa is the core entry point for skilled migration. In 2026, the New Zealand government explicitly reduced the skilled migration quota from 125,000 to 105,000, while simultaneously prioritizing the processing of Employer Sponsored Work Visas (AEWV), reflecting a "quality-first" immigration policy.
• Main types of work visas: The New Zealand work visa system covers multiple categories, each with different application requirements, fee structures, and scope of benefits. The table below briefly presents a comparison of the fees for various work visas in 2026:
Work visa application fees (New Zealand dollars) (approximately equivalent to RMB) Key features
Working Holiday Visa (WHV): NZ$670 + NZ$100 entry tax (approximately 3,437 RMB), valid for 12 months, allows you to work for any employer for a maximum of 6 months, but does not allow you to start your own business.
Employer-Sponsored Work Visa (AEWV): NZ$1,540 (approximately RMB 6,878). This is a mainstream employer-sponsored work visa, valid for up to 5 years, and eligible for permanent residency.
Post-study work visa (PSWV) from NZ$1,670 (approximately 7,460 RMB). Offers 1-3 years of work rights and requires no employer sponsorship.
Skilled migrant workers signed contracts worth NZ$1,614 (approximately 7,214 yuan) for work visas obtained through the skilled migration pathway.
Spouse work visa costs NZ$700-860 (approximately 3,128-3,843 RMB). The main applicant can apply together if they hold a qualifying visa.
The above fees are the official fees charged by the New Zealand Immigration Service in 2026, excluding additional fees such as medical examinations, police clearance certificates, and document translations.
Key policy changes in 2026:
• Detailed Employment Conditions for Open Work Visas (Effective April 20, 2026): Open work visas will be subject to two different employment conditions depending on the visa category. The first category (such as spouse work visas and Post Study Work Visas) allows holders to engage in any legal work, including self-employment or starting a company; the second category (such as Working Holiday Visas) requires holders to work as employees and prohibits them from starting or operating a company.
• The National Occupational List (NOL) has been significantly expanded (effective March 9, 2026): 47 new occupations at skill levels 1-3 have been added to the NOL, including head chefs, sous chefs, diesel mechanics, and radiographers. Employers can apply for AEWV Job Checks for these positions. Meanwhile, pet groomers, pet sitters, and kennel workers have been downgraded from skill level 3 to level 4, facing stricter application requirements and shorter stay periods.
• Median wage for immigrants increased (effective March 9, 2026): The median wage for immigrants will be increased to $35.00/hour. The starting salary threshold for applicants will be locked for life, and no further increases will be required.
• Short-term graduate work visa (launched in the second half of 2026): A new short-term graduate work visa with a maximum of 6 months of open work rights will be introduced for graduates who have completed NZQCF Level 5-7 courses but do not meet the PSWV qualification.
Eligibility & Requirements
Application requirements
New Zealand work visas employ a comprehensive assessment mechanism, with different categories having different entry requirements. The Accredited Employer Visa (AEWV) is the mainstream pathway, while other categories have their own specific requirements.
1. Eligibility Requirements for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is the primary employer-sponsored work visa pathway in New Zealand, applicable to applicants who have secured a full-time job offer from a New Zealand-certified employer.
Specific requirements for certification
Employer certification requires employers to pass the New Zealand Immigration Service's employer certification process, which is divided into three levels: Whitelist employers (government agencies, listed companies, and companies with annual revenue exceeding NZ$5 million, certified for 5 years, exempt from Job Check), Standard employers (established for 2 years or more, employing 5 or more local staff, certified for 3 years, requiring Job Checks for each position), and High-risk employers (newly established companies or companies with a history of labor disputes, certified for 1 year, requiring quarterly operating reports).
Job Check requires employers to prove that the position has been advertised, that they have genuinely attempted to recruit a New Zealander without success (the advertisement must have lasted at least 14 days), and that the salary is in line with market rates.
Applicants must meet one of the following conditions: hold an NZQCF Level 4 or above qualification; or have more than 2 years of relevant work experience (globally recognized, New Zealand local experience is not required).
Character and Health Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old, provide a certificate of no criminal record, and pass a medical examination at a hospital designated by the Immigration Bureau.
AEWV itself does not have a hard median salary threshold, but for permanent residency pathways (such as the Green List, SMC, etc.), the corresponding salary requirements still need to be met (e.g., Green List occupations require at least $35/hour).
Visa duration varies depending on skill level and salary, and can be up to 5 years. Skill levels 4-5 positions have shorter stays and may restrict the sponsorship of spouses and children.
Note: In 2026, the AEWV will remove the "median wage hard threshold" and replace it with a two-dimensional assessment of "market wage + skills matching", but the salary requirements corresponding to specific permanent residency pathways still need to be met.
2. Working Holiday Visa (WHV) Application Requirements
Designed specifically for young tourists, it allows permit holders to work short-term while on holiday in New Zealand:
• Age requirement: 18 to 30 years old (applicants from mainland China)
• Quota Limit: Only 1,000 places are available for mainland China each year, making them highly sought after and usually filling up within hours of opening.
• Application period: Applications will open on July 2, 2026 (New Zealand time).
• Work restrictions: You may work for any employer for a maximum of 6 months within a 12-month period, but you may not be self-employed or run a company.
• Financial requirements: You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and purchase a return ticket.
• Uniqueness requirement: You can only apply once in your lifetime.
The cost is approximately 3,437 RMB (including visa fee and entry tax).
⚠️ Special Reminder: New Zealand currently has a high unemployment rate, making it challenging for working holiday visa holders to find employment. Some applicants have reported that "going without work for weeks or even months is common," and competition for some positions is fierce (one fruit-picking job received 400 applications). It is recommended that you be well-prepared mentally and financially before applying.
3. Application requirements for Post Study Work Visa (PSWV)
For international graduates who have completed compliant New Zealand qualifications:
• Academic requirements: Completion of at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand with a Level 7 or higher qualification (expanded to Level 7 Graduate Diploma graduates with a bachelor's degree in the second half of 2026).
• Application deadline: Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the student visa expiring.
• Work rights: Open work rights (completely flexible, self-employment or entrepreneurship allowed), classified as Category I employment conditions from April 20, 2026.
• Visa duration: Holders of Level 7 or higher degrees are eligible for a maximum of 3 years; Graduate Diploma graduates are issued visas based on their study duration (maximum 1 year).
• Costs: NZD 298 for online application, RMB 1,590 for paper application, plus a visa application center service fee of RMB 235.
• Uniqueness: Each person can only be approved for a PSWV once in their lifetime.
4. Short Term Graduate Work Visa Application Requirements (to be launched in the second half of 2026)
The newly introduced temporary transitional visa is for graduates who have completed NZQCF Level 5-7 courses but do not qualify for the PSWV:
• Academic requirements: Hold an NZQCF Level 5-7 qualification and have studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks (excluding English language courses, foundation or bridging courses).
• Financial requirement: At least NZ$5,000 in disposable living expenses
• Status requirement: Must not have previously obtained a short-term graduate work permit or post-study work permit.
• Application deadline: Submit within 3 months of the student visa expiring.
• Work restrictions: Can only work as an employee; cannot own or operate a business; cannot sponsor a spouse's work visa or a child's student visa.
• Visa type: Maximum validity of 6 months, non-renewable, and each person can only apply once.
The core value of this policy lies in filling the "gap in the transition to a post-graduate work visa." For students holding an overseas undergraduate degree plus a New Zealand Graduate Diploma (i.e., an "overseas undergraduate + New Zealand GD" combination), the transition to a post-graduate work visa was often hindered by professional restrictions. The new regulations clarify that this path can directly enter the discussion scope of the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) under certain conditions, which is particularly useful for Chinese students.
5. Open-ended work visa employment condition classification (effective April 20, 2026)
All new open work visa regulations will take effect on April 20, 2026. Existing visa holders can continue their existing business activities until their visas expire. Open work visas will be divided into two employment conditions based on visa category—
Category Applicable Scope Permitted Activities Prohibited Activities
Category 1 spouse work visas, PSWV post-study work visas, and certain family visa categories allow work for any employer; self-employment and starting a company are permitted; contracts for services are allowed, but hiring others (including hiring through a self-owned company) is prohibited; engaging in/investing in commercial sex services is prohibited.
The second category of Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and MEPV (Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa) only allows individuals to work for an employer as employees; they are not allowed to be self-employed or run a company; they are not allowed to employ others; and they are not allowed to engage in/invest in commercial sex services.
Both types of visa holders must comply with New Zealand labor and business laws. This adjustment does not affect employer-sponsored work visas (such as the AEWV) or the existing work permissions of student visa holders.
New Zealand work visas employ a comprehensive assessment mechanism, with different categories having different entry requirements. The Accredited Employer Visa (AEWV) is the mainstream pathway, while other categories have their own specific requirements.
1. Eligibility Requirements for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is the primary employer-sponsored work visa pathway in New Zealand, applicable to applicants who have secured a full-time job offer from a New Zealand-certified employer.
Specific requirements for certification
Employer certification requires employers to pass the New Zealand Immigration Service's employer certification process, which is divided into three levels: Whitelist employers (government agencies, listed companies, and companies with annual revenue exceeding NZ$5 million, certified for 5 years, exempt from Job Check), Standard employers (established for 2 years or more, employing 5 or more local staff, certified for 3 years, requiring Job Checks for each position), and High-risk employers (newly established companies or companies with a history of labor disputes, certified for 1 year, requiring quarterly operating reports).
Job Check requires employers to prove that the position has been advertised, that they have genuinely attempted to recruit a New Zealander without success (the advertisement must have lasted at least 14 days), and that the salary is in line with market rates.
Applicants must meet one of the following conditions: hold an NZQCF Level 4 or above qualification; or have more than 2 years of relevant work experience (globally recognized, New Zealand local experience is not required).
Character and Health Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old, provide a certificate of no criminal record, and pass a medical examination at a hospital designated by the Immigration Bureau.
AEWV itself does not have a hard median salary threshold, but for permanent residency pathways (such as the Green List, SMC, etc.), the corresponding salary requirements still need to be met (e.g., Green List occupations require at least $35/hour).
Visa duration varies depending on skill level and salary, and can be up to 5 years. Skill levels 4-5 positions have shorter stays and may restrict the sponsorship of spouses and children.
Note: In 2026, the AEWV will remove the "median wage hard threshold" and replace it with a two-dimensional assessment of "market wage + skills matching", but the salary requirements corresponding to specific permanent residency pathways still need to be met.
2. Working Holiday Visa (WHV) Application Requirements
Designed specifically for young tourists, it allows permit holders to work short-term while on holiday in New Zealand:
• Age requirement: 18 to 30 years old (applicants from mainland China)
• Quota Limit: Only 1,000 places are available for mainland China each year, making them highly sought after and usually filling up within hours of opening.
• Application period: Applications will open on July 2, 2026 (New Zealand time).
• Work restrictions: You may work for any employer for a maximum of 6 months within a 12-month period, but you may not be self-employed or run a company.
• Financial requirements: You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and purchase a return ticket.
• Uniqueness requirement: You can only apply once in your lifetime.
The cost is approximately 3,437 RMB (including visa fee and entry tax).
⚠️ Special Reminder: New Zealand currently has a high unemployment rate, making it challenging for working holiday visa holders to find employment. Some applicants have reported that "going without work for weeks or even months is common," and competition for some positions is fierce (one fruit-picking job received 400 applications). It is recommended that you be well-prepared mentally and financially before applying.
3. Application requirements for Post Study Work Visa (PSWV)
For international graduates who have completed compliant New Zealand qualifications:
• Academic requirements: Completion of at least 30 weeks of full-time study in New Zealand with a Level 7 or higher qualification (expanded to Level 7 Graduate Diploma graduates with a bachelor's degree in the second half of 2026).
• Application deadline: Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the student visa expiring.
• Work rights: Open work rights (completely flexible, self-employment or entrepreneurship allowed), classified as Category I employment conditions from April 20, 2026.
• Visa duration: Holders of Level 7 or higher degrees are eligible for a maximum of 3 years; Graduate Diploma graduates are issued visas based on their study duration (maximum 1 year).
• Costs: NZD 298 for online application, RMB 1,590 for paper application, plus a visa application center service fee of RMB 235.
• Uniqueness: Each person can only be approved for a PSWV once in their lifetime.
4. Short Term Graduate Work Visa Application Requirements (to be launched in the second half of 2026)
The newly introduced temporary transitional visa is for graduates who have completed NZQCF Level 5-7 courses but do not qualify for the PSWV:
• Academic requirements: Hold an NZQCF Level 5-7 qualification and have studied full-time in New Zealand for at least 24 weeks (excluding English language courses, foundation or bridging courses).
• Financial requirement: At least NZ$5,000 in disposable living expenses
• Status requirement: Must not have previously obtained a short-term graduate work permit or post-study work permit.
• Application deadline: Submit within 3 months of the student visa expiring.
• Work restrictions: Can only work as an employee; cannot own or operate a business; cannot sponsor a spouse's work visa or a child's student visa.
• Visa type: Maximum validity of 6 months, non-renewable, and each person can only apply once.
The core value of this policy lies in filling the "gap in the transition to a post-graduate work visa." For students holding an overseas undergraduate degree plus a New Zealand Graduate Diploma (i.e., an "overseas undergraduate + New Zealand GD" combination), the transition to a post-graduate work visa was often hindered by professional restrictions. The new regulations clarify that this path can directly enter the discussion scope of the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) under certain conditions, which is particularly useful for Chinese students.
5. Open-ended work visa employment condition classification (effective April 20, 2026)
All new open work visa regulations will take effect on April 20, 2026. Existing visa holders can continue their existing business activities until their visas expire. Open work visas will be divided into two employment conditions based on visa category—
Category Applicable Scope Permitted Activities Prohibited Activities
Category 1 spouse work visas, PSWV post-study work visas, and certain family visa categories allow work for any employer; self-employment and starting a company are permitted; contracts for services are allowed, but hiring others (including hiring through a self-owned company) is prohibited; engaging in/investing in commercial sex services is prohibited.
The second category of Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and MEPV (Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa) only allows individuals to work for an employer as employees; they are not allowed to be self-employed or run a company; they are not allowed to employ others; and they are not allowed to engage in/invest in commercial sex services.
Both types of visa holders must comply with New Zealand labor and business laws. This adjustment does not affect employer-sponsored work visas (such as the AEWV) or the existing work permissions of student visa holders.
Application Process & Advice
suggestion
⚠️ Before choosing a work visa type, clarify your long-term goals: If your goal is to stay in New Zealand long-term through the "work → permanent residency" path, the AEWV is the only legal pathway to the SMC/green list; if you just want to experience New Zealand life briefly and earn travel expenses, the WHV is sufficient; if you have completed your New Zealand qualification, you can apply for a PSWV to obtain an open work visa for up to 3 years. If you plan to apply for permanent residency through the AEWV, the direct application pathway for master's degree holders allows you to apply for PR without work experience; skilled trades applicants can use a dedicated pathway, requiring 4 years of experience (including 1.5 years in New Zealand) to apply. Do not confuse the two, otherwise you will waste your money.
• ⚠️ Plan your employer accreditation level early and prioritize whitelist employers: The Immigration Department categorizes employers into three levels: Whitelist employers (government agencies, listed companies, and companies with annual revenue exceeding NZ$5 million) have a 5-year accreditation validity and are exempt from Job Check job review, shortening the AEWV work visa processing time to 2 weeks (the standard process takes 4-6 weeks); Standard employers (established for at least 2 years and employing more than 5 local staff) have a 3-year accreditation validity and require Job Checks for each job; High-risk employers (newly established companies with a history of labor disputes) have a 1-year accreditation validity and require quarterly business reports. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize job applications from whitelist companies (mainly in the IT, finance, and healthcare sectors), which can significantly improve application efficiency and approval probability.
• Accurately grasp the 2026 NOL Occupation List Update Window (from March 9, 2026): On March 9, 2026, the NOL added 47 occupations at skill levels 1-3, including head chefs, sous chefs, diagnostic radiographers, diesel mechanics, and pharmacists. If your occupation is included in this expansion, your employer can immediately submit a Job Check application, and your immigration eligibility will be upgraded accordingly—holders of skill levels 1-3 will have a longer stay and can sponsor their spouses and children. It is important to note that three occupations have been downgraded to Level 4 (pet groomers, sitters, and kennel workers). New Job Check applications must be processed according to Level 4 standards, facing additional English language requirements and a shorter stay.
• Capitalize on the Salary Lock-in Mechanism and Plan Your Long-Term Path to Permanent Residency (Effective March 9, 2026): The median wage for immigrants has increased to $35/hour, but the salary threshold at the time of entry is locked for life. For example, if your salary at the time of entry in April 2026 is $34/hour, even if the median rises to $38 in the future, your eligibility threshold will remain locked at $34. This mechanism is extremely beneficial for applicants planning to obtain permanent residency, especially in the SMC skilled migration pathway, where the salary threshold will be based on the standard applicable when the applicant begins their New Zealand skilled work experience, not the standard at the time of application for residency. It is recommended to establish a stable work record and salary level at least 24 months before applying for permanent residency, and strictly track eligibility changes according to the latest salary lock-in mechanism and the SMC pathway.
• Be wary of the intense competition and job-hunting challenges for Working Holiday Visas (WHV): The 1,000 places available for Chinese citizens are typically snapped up within hours of opening, with online agencies charging anywhere from 7,000 to 20,000 RMB for assistance. The situation has even escalated to the point where "even agencies vying for places need to compete fiercely." More importantly, New Zealand currently has a high unemployment rate, making job hunting extremely difficult—some have received numerous rejection letters over three weeks, and one email for a fruit-picking job showed 400 applicants. Even backpackers from English-speaking countries are shocked by the difficulty of finding work. It is recommended to secure employment in advance or have sufficient reserve funds (at least enough to cover 3-6 months of living expenses) to avoid being caught off guard after arrival.
• Seize the window of opportunity presented by the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa (launching in the second half of 2026): The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa is specifically designed to fill the gap in the original Graduate Work Visa transition, providing a 6-month transition period for graduates who have completed NZQCF Levels 5-7 but do not qualify for the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) to find employment and transition to the Advanced Graduate Work Visa (AEWV). Important notes when applying: Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the expiry of your student visa; applications submitted after the window period will not be accepted. Visa holders can only work as employees and cannot operate their own businesses, nor can they sponsor a spouse's work visa or a child's student visa. The visa cannot be renewed or reapplied for. It is recommended that international students submit their Short-Term Graduate Work Visa applications immediately upon receiving their graduation certificates to maximize the transition time and simultaneously prepare their AEWV application materials.
New Zealand work visa application process
The application process varies depending on the type of work visa. The following explanation focuses on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which is the most planned path to a green card.
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Phase 1: Finding certified employers and job offers (it is recommended to prepare 6-12 months in advance)
• Find jobs with approved or accredited employers on New Zealand job search platforms (Seek, TradeMe, LinkedIn, etc.).
• ⚠️ During the interview, you should confirm in advance whether the employer has obtained the "New Zealand Immigration Service Certified Employer" qualification. Otherwise, the employer must complete the employer certification process (costing approximately NZ$775) before proceeding with the next steps.
• Some positions (especially skill level 4-5 positions) require employers to meet market rate wage requirements and labor market testing advertising periods.
Ideally, you should target employers on the whitelist, which can significantly shorten the processing time for Job Check and subsequent work permits.
Phase Two: Employer completes Job Check (approximately several weeks depending on application category)
• Standard employers are required to submit a Job Check application to the Immigration Department, which costs approximately NZ$735.
• Employers on the whitelist are exempt from job checks and can directly apply for an AEWV visa.
• Require employers to provide detailed job descriptions, recruitment advertisement records, and skills matching assessment materials.
Special Note (Applicable from March 9, 2026): 47 new NOL occupations automatically qualify for Job Check without requiring additional skills assessment. If your occupation is on the expanded list (e.g., chef, radiographer, etc.), you can apply directly using that occupation without waiting.
• After submission, wait for the immigration department's skills matching assessment (which accounts for approximately 68% of the rejection rate for 3T visas in 1991 applications; it is essential to ensure that your skills are highly matched to the job requirements).
Phase 3: Individual submits AEWV work visa application
• Required Documents: Color scan of passport, valid job offer, employer verification number, resume in both Chinese and English, academic certificates/letters of recommendation for work experience, criminal record check (notarized and translated), medical examination report (chest X-ray + blood test), recent passport-sized photo (35mm×45mm, white background), and medical insurance policy.
• Submission method: Apply online through your RealMe account on the New Zealand Immigration website and pay the NZ$1,540 application fee.
• Processing time: Standard process takes approximately 4-6 weeks, while for employers on the whitelist, this can be shortened to 2 weeks.
• While awaiting approval, please check your email and submit any missing documents promptly.
Phase Four: Visa Issuance and Entry
• Once approved, receive your eVisa electronic visa through your RealMe account (New Zealand no longer issues physical visa labels).
• It is recommended to enter the country within the visa validity period and to retain bank transfer and pay slip records as much as possible for future permanent residency verification.
• Upon arrival, complete the following procedures as soon as possible: Open a New Zealand bank account (ANZ or ASB recommended); register for an IRD tax number; purchase and confirm medical insurance; register your accommodation address and mobile phone number.
Phase 5: Visa Maintenance and Permanent Residency Planning
• AEWV work visas are typically valid for 3-5 years, but can be renewed (provided employer certification and job compliance are maintained).
• Pathway to permanent residency (starting August 2026):
• Direct Master's Application Pathway (6-point scale): Complete an NZQA Level 9 Master's degree + IELTS 6.5 + a skilled job offer → Achieve a perfect score of 6 and apply directly for PR (Permanent Residency), no work experience required.
• Special Pathway for Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, auto mechanics, and other ANZSCO Level 1-3 skilled tradespeople, holding NZQCF Level 4+ qualifications and 4 years of experience (including 1.5 years in New Zealand) → Direct path to permanent residency.
• Traditional 6-point system: A combination of qualifications/experience/salary must meet the requirements (3-6 points for qualifications + 0-3 points for work experience). After accumulating 6 points, you can apply for SMC. Each 30 hours/week of work under a certified employer counts as one month of valid work experience; after accumulating 24 months, you can apply.
• PSWV graduates (employment eligibility classification from April 20, 2026): directly classified as "Category 1 Open Work Visa", can work for any employer or start their own company.
Total Duration Overview (using AEWV work permit as an example):
Estimated time for each step
Find a certified employer + job offer (3-12 months)
Employers complete Job Check review in 2-6 weeks.
Individual AEWV work visa applications take 2-6 weeks.
Visa approval to entry takes 1-2 months
Apply for permanent residency after accumulating 24 months of work experience while holding an AEWV (traditional pathway).
Fee Summary (Taking AEWV work permit as an example):
• AEWV individual visa fee: NZ$1,540 (approximately RMB 6,878)
• Employer certification fee (paid by the employer): NZ$775
Job Check application fee (employer pays): NZ$735
• Medical examination fee: approximately NZ$150-250 (approximately RMB 670-1,117)
• Certificate of no criminal record + translation and notarization: Approximately 200-400 RMB
• International Qualification Assessment of Overseas Academic Credentials (if required): Depending on the type of academic qualification
• Total cost of AEWV (including medical examination and materials): approximately RMB 8,500-9,500 (excluding employer-borne certification and job check fees and airfare)
If you choose the traditional skilled migration route, the total cost (including work visa and immigration) will be approximately RMB 17,000-20,000, including: EOI application fee of NZ$530, skilled migration visa application fee of NZ$3,310, skills assessment fee of NZ$500-1,500, and medical examination fee of NZ$500-800.
⚠️ Before choosing a work visa type, clarify your long-term goals: If your goal is to stay in New Zealand long-term through the "work → permanent residency" path, the AEWV is the only legal pathway to the SMC/green list; if you just want to experience New Zealand life briefly and earn travel expenses, the WHV is sufficient; if you have completed your New Zealand qualification, you can apply for a PSWV to obtain an open work visa for up to 3 years. If you plan to apply for permanent residency through the AEWV, the direct application pathway for master's degree holders allows you to apply for PR without work experience; skilled trades applicants can use a dedicated pathway, requiring 4 years of experience (including 1.5 years in New Zealand) to apply. Do not confuse the two, otherwise you will waste your money.
• ⚠️ Plan your employer accreditation level early and prioritize whitelist employers: The Immigration Department categorizes employers into three levels: Whitelist employers (government agencies, listed companies, and companies with annual revenue exceeding NZ$5 million) have a 5-year accreditation validity and are exempt from Job Check job review, shortening the AEWV work visa processing time to 2 weeks (the standard process takes 4-6 weeks); Standard employers (established for at least 2 years and employing more than 5 local staff) have a 3-year accreditation validity and require Job Checks for each job; High-risk employers (newly established companies with a history of labor disputes) have a 1-year accreditation validity and require quarterly business reports. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize job applications from whitelist companies (mainly in the IT, finance, and healthcare sectors), which can significantly improve application efficiency and approval probability.
• Accurately grasp the 2026 NOL Occupation List Update Window (from March 9, 2026): On March 9, 2026, the NOL added 47 occupations at skill levels 1-3, including head chefs, sous chefs, diagnostic radiographers, diesel mechanics, and pharmacists. If your occupation is included in this expansion, your employer can immediately submit a Job Check application, and your immigration eligibility will be upgraded accordingly—holders of skill levels 1-3 will have a longer stay and can sponsor their spouses and children. It is important to note that three occupations have been downgraded to Level 4 (pet groomers, sitters, and kennel workers). New Job Check applications must be processed according to Level 4 standards, facing additional English language requirements and a shorter stay.
• Capitalize on the Salary Lock-in Mechanism and Plan Your Long-Term Path to Permanent Residency (Effective March 9, 2026): The median wage for immigrants has increased to $35/hour, but the salary threshold at the time of entry is locked for life. For example, if your salary at the time of entry in April 2026 is $34/hour, even if the median rises to $38 in the future, your eligibility threshold will remain locked at $34. This mechanism is extremely beneficial for applicants planning to obtain permanent residency, especially in the SMC skilled migration pathway, where the salary threshold will be based on the standard applicable when the applicant begins their New Zealand skilled work experience, not the standard at the time of application for residency. It is recommended to establish a stable work record and salary level at least 24 months before applying for permanent residency, and strictly track eligibility changes according to the latest salary lock-in mechanism and the SMC pathway.
• Be wary of the intense competition and job-hunting challenges for Working Holiday Visas (WHV): The 1,000 places available for Chinese citizens are typically snapped up within hours of opening, with online agencies charging anywhere from 7,000 to 20,000 RMB for assistance. The situation has even escalated to the point where "even agencies vying for places need to compete fiercely." More importantly, New Zealand currently has a high unemployment rate, making job hunting extremely difficult—some have received numerous rejection letters over three weeks, and one email for a fruit-picking job showed 400 applicants. Even backpackers from English-speaking countries are shocked by the difficulty of finding work. It is recommended to secure employment in advance or have sufficient reserve funds (at least enough to cover 3-6 months of living expenses) to avoid being caught off guard after arrival.
• Seize the window of opportunity presented by the Short-Term Graduate Work Visa (launching in the second half of 2026): The Short-Term Graduate Work Visa is specifically designed to fill the gap in the original Graduate Work Visa transition, providing a 6-month transition period for graduates who have completed NZQCF Levels 5-7 but do not qualify for the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) to find employment and transition to the Advanced Graduate Work Visa (AEWV). Important notes when applying: Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the expiry of your student visa; applications submitted after the window period will not be accepted. Visa holders can only work as employees and cannot operate their own businesses, nor can they sponsor a spouse's work visa or a child's student visa. The visa cannot be renewed or reapplied for. It is recommended that international students submit their Short-Term Graduate Work Visa applications immediately upon receiving their graduation certificates to maximize the transition time and simultaneously prepare their AEWV application materials.
New Zealand work visa application process
The application process varies depending on the type of work visa. The following explanation focuses on the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which is the most planned path to a green card.
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Phase 1: Finding certified employers and job offers (it is recommended to prepare 6-12 months in advance)
• Find jobs with approved or accredited employers on New Zealand job search platforms (Seek, TradeMe, LinkedIn, etc.).
• ⚠️ During the interview, you should confirm in advance whether the employer has obtained the "New Zealand Immigration Service Certified Employer" qualification. Otherwise, the employer must complete the employer certification process (costing approximately NZ$775) before proceeding with the next steps.
• Some positions (especially skill level 4-5 positions) require employers to meet market rate wage requirements and labor market testing advertising periods.
Ideally, you should target employers on the whitelist, which can significantly shorten the processing time for Job Check and subsequent work permits.
Phase Two: Employer completes Job Check (approximately several weeks depending on application category)
• Standard employers are required to submit a Job Check application to the Immigration Department, which costs approximately NZ$735.
• Employers on the whitelist are exempt from job checks and can directly apply for an AEWV visa.
• Require employers to provide detailed job descriptions, recruitment advertisement records, and skills matching assessment materials.
Special Note (Applicable from March 9, 2026): 47 new NOL occupations automatically qualify for Job Check without requiring additional skills assessment. If your occupation is on the expanded list (e.g., chef, radiographer, etc.), you can apply directly using that occupation without waiting.
• After submission, wait for the immigration department's skills matching assessment (which accounts for approximately 68% of the rejection rate for 3T visas in 1991 applications; it is essential to ensure that your skills are highly matched to the job requirements).
Phase 3: Individual submits AEWV work visa application
• Required Documents: Color scan of passport, valid job offer, employer verification number, resume in both Chinese and English, academic certificates/letters of recommendation for work experience, criminal record check (notarized and translated), medical examination report (chest X-ray + blood test), recent passport-sized photo (35mm×45mm, white background), and medical insurance policy.
• Submission method: Apply online through your RealMe account on the New Zealand Immigration website and pay the NZ$1,540 application fee.
• Processing time: Standard process takes approximately 4-6 weeks, while for employers on the whitelist, this can be shortened to 2 weeks.
• While awaiting approval, please check your email and submit any missing documents promptly.
Phase Four: Visa Issuance and Entry
• Once approved, receive your eVisa electronic visa through your RealMe account (New Zealand no longer issues physical visa labels).
• It is recommended to enter the country within the visa validity period and to retain bank transfer and pay slip records as much as possible for future permanent residency verification.
• Upon arrival, complete the following procedures as soon as possible: Open a New Zealand bank account (ANZ or ASB recommended); register for an IRD tax number; purchase and confirm medical insurance; register your accommodation address and mobile phone number.
Phase 5: Visa Maintenance and Permanent Residency Planning
• AEWV work visas are typically valid for 3-5 years, but can be renewed (provided employer certification and job compliance are maintained).
• Pathway to permanent residency (starting August 2026):
• Direct Master's Application Pathway (6-point scale): Complete an NZQA Level 9 Master's degree + IELTS 6.5 + a skilled job offer → Achieve a perfect score of 6 and apply directly for PR (Permanent Residency), no work experience required.
• Special Pathway for Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, auto mechanics, and other ANZSCO Level 1-3 skilled tradespeople, holding NZQCF Level 4+ qualifications and 4 years of experience (including 1.5 years in New Zealand) → Direct path to permanent residency.
• Traditional 6-point system: A combination of qualifications/experience/salary must meet the requirements (3-6 points for qualifications + 0-3 points for work experience). After accumulating 6 points, you can apply for SMC. Each 30 hours/week of work under a certified employer counts as one month of valid work experience; after accumulating 24 months, you can apply.
• PSWV graduates (employment eligibility classification from April 20, 2026): directly classified as "Category 1 Open Work Visa", can work for any employer or start their own company.
Total Duration Overview (using AEWV work permit as an example):
Estimated time for each step
Find a certified employer + job offer (3-12 months)
Employers complete Job Check review in 2-6 weeks.
Individual AEWV work visa applications take 2-6 weeks.
Visa approval to entry takes 1-2 months
Apply for permanent residency after accumulating 24 months of work experience while holding an AEWV (traditional pathway).
Fee Summary (Taking AEWV work permit as an example):
• AEWV individual visa fee: NZ$1,540 (approximately RMB 6,878)
• Employer certification fee (paid by the employer): NZ$775
Job Check application fee (employer pays): NZ$735
• Medical examination fee: approximately NZ$150-250 (approximately RMB 670-1,117)
• Certificate of no criminal record + translation and notarization: Approximately 200-400 RMB
• International Qualification Assessment of Overseas Academic Credentials (if required): Depending on the type of academic qualification
• Total cost of AEWV (including medical examination and materials): approximately RMB 8,500-9,500 (excluding employer-borne certification and job check fees and airfare)
If you choose the traditional skilled migration route, the total cost (including work visa and immigration) will be approximately RMB 17,000-20,000, including: EOI application fee of NZ$530, skilled migration visa application fee of NZ$3,310, skills assessment fee of NZ$500-1,500, and medical examination fee of NZ$500-800.