New Zealand

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Your Complete New Zealand Immigration Hub

Known for its stunning landscapes, work-life balance, and welcoming culture, New Zealand offers multiple pathways for skilled workers, investors, and families.

8
Visa Pathways
2026
Last Updated
immigration.govt.nz
Official Source

Main Visa Pathways

The most common routes to New Zealand. Use our pathway finder to discover which fits your profile best.

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Skilled Migrant Category

Points-based residence visa for skilled professionals. Major expansion planned for August 2026.

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Accredited Employer Work Visa

Work for an NZ accredited employer. The most common work visa for new migrants.

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Straight to Residence (Green List)

Fast-track residence for occupations in high demand: doctors, engineers, IT pros, and more.

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Partnership Visa

Join your New Zealand citizen or resident partner through the partnership-based residence pathway.

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Investor Visas

Two tiers: Investor 1 (NZD $10M) and Investor 2 (NZD $3M).

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Student Visa Pathway

Study β†’ Post-Study Work Visa (1–3 years) β†’ Residence through SMC.

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Working Holiday

Ages 18–30 (35 for some countries). Travel and work for up to 12 months.

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Parent Category

NZ residents can sponsor their parents for residence under certain conditions.

Cost of Living in New Zealand

Average monthly expenses to help you budget your move.

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Rent (1BR)
NZD $1,800
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Meal Out
NZD $25
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Transit Pass
NZD $150
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Utilities
NZD $200

Immigration News & Updates

Latest policy changes and announcements for New Zealand immigration.

August 2026 β€’ Skilled Migrant

Major SMC Expansion: New Pathways for Experienced Workers

Two new Skilled Migrant pathways open: Skilled Work Experience (5+ years, 2 in NZ) and Trades/Technician. NZ work experience requirement reduced from 3 years to 2.

What this means: Experience-based routes are now viable for tradespeople and professionals without Master’s degrees.
2026 β€’ Green List

Straight to Residence List Grows for Healthcare and Tech

The Green List continues expanding to include more healthcare workers, engineers, and technology professionals.

What this means: If your occupation is Green List, you can skip the points calculator.

Ready to Find Your Pathway?

Answer a few quick questions and we’ll match you with the New Zealand immigration programs that fit your profile best.

πŸ” Try the Visa Match β†’
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