Preston Russell Law - Legal Services for Southern People

Applying for a New Zealand Work Permit or Visa

by Mike Mika, Associate category Immigration Law

 Unless you are a New Zealand citizen or resident you will generally need a Permit or Visa to work in New Zealand. A Work Permit is a stamp from the Immigration Service in your Passport that allows you to work in New Zealand. This will show the conditions of your Permit i.e. the kind of work you will be doing, your employer’s name and whereabouts in New Zealand you will be allowed to work. A Work Visa is a stamp in your Passport that allows you to enter or re-enter New Zealand from overseas. 
The Visa will show that you are permitted to come to New Zealand and in some cases also show that you are allowed a Work Permit upon arrival. The Visa may be for single or multiple entries into New Zealand. 

I can help you apply for both the Permit and Visa, as you will need both if you wish to work in New Zealand.
Documents Required for Work Visa / Permit Applications
When you come to see me about your application, it will be helpful on your first visit if you brought the following documents:
- Your current Passport that must be valid while you are in New Zealand.
- A couple of recent passport-sized coloured photographs.
- A job offer that may be in the form of an employment contract. This should include things like employer’s details, job title, your duties/responsibilities, pay details, employment conditions, qualifications/training required.
- Correspondence from the employer that the job that is offered cannot be filled by New Zealanders.
- Qualifications – degrees, diplomas or professional Registration Certificates that are needed for the job offered.
- Any References from previous employers.
- In certain circumstances you may need to include a Police Certificate from the country of your citizenship.

You will also need to pay the application fee. The fees are variable dependent on the category of Visa or Permit you are applying for. Call me to find out more about any aspect of immigration law or practice.

Mike Mika is a staff solicitor at Preston Russell Law. You can contact him by clicking here.