The Global Expat Hub
New ZealandNew Zealand rates 56/100 for visa and bureaucracy friction (mixed). Pick your route, then follow the steps.
Visa types
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Accredited Employer Work visaAccredited Employer Work visaπ
Skilled Migrant Category residenceSkilled Migrant Category residenceπΌ
Active Investor Plus visaActive Investor Plus visaHow to apply, step by step
- Choose the route and confirm eligibilityMatch income, savings, employer or family ties to a visa above. Check whether income must be shown in local currency and over how many months.Where: immigration authority website Β· this page
- Gather and legalise documentsPassport valid 18+ months, bank statements, police certificate, medical, proof of health insurance. Apostille and certified translation into English, MΔori.Where: home-country notary and apostille office
- Book the appointmentMost residence visas are filed at the New Zealand consulate nearest you; some allow in-country filing after arrival. Slots book weeks ahead.Where: New Zealand consulate or embassy
- Submit, pay the fee and give biometricsBring originals plus copies. Expect a decision in one to four months; employer permits are fastest, passive-income routes slowest.Where: consulate Β· online portal
- Enter and registerCollect your residence card, register your address and tax number within the first weeks in Wellington or Auckland.Where: local immigration office Β· town hall
Renewal and residency. Check whether your first permit converts to permanent residency and after how long, and how many days abroad are allowed. Rules change often: verify on the immigration authority's own site before filing.
Immigration-law partners are listed on Tax & legal help.
Official & reference sources
Starter content generated from the country data model. Replace with sourced, dated copy before launch. Last reviewed: not yet.