New Zealand Visas for US, Canada, UK and EU Applicants

How New Zealand visas work

New Zealand immigration is not a single application. It is a framework made up of temporary visas and residence visas, each with strict conditions.

Key points to understand early:

• Most people start on a temporary visa
• Residence is a separate application later
• Eligibility can change over time
• Policy updates are common

There is no one visa that suits everyone. Planning depends on your background, goals, and timing.

Who this page is for

This guide is written for applicants from:

• United States
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• European Union

It focuses on people who want to:

• Study in New Zealand
• Work in New Zealand
• Build a pathway to residence

We do not cover visitor visas or short term travel options here.

Main New Zealand visa categories

Student visas

A New Zealand student visa allows you to study full time with an approved provider. Student visas are often used by people who:

• Want a New Zealand qualification
• Need local work rights to gain experience
• Plan to move onto a work visa later

Your rights depend on your course level and duration. Some student visas allow limited work. Others do not. A student visa alone does not lead to residence. It can support a longer plan if the course, timing, and post study options align.

Read more: New Zealand student visa options

Work visas

Work visas allow you to work in New Zealand under defined conditions. Most work visas are tied to:

• A specific role
• A specific employer
• Pay and skill thresholds

The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the main work visa used today. The employer must be accredited, and the role must meet immigration criteria. Changing jobs often requires a new visa. Work visas are temporary and reviewed regularly.

Read more: New Zealand work visa options

Residence and PR visas

Residence visas allow you to live in New Zealand indefinitely, with travel conditions in the early years. Residence pathways usually require:

• Skilled employment in New Zealand
• Meeting income thresholds
• Time spent working under a qualifying visa
• Health and character checks

Residence is competitive. It is assessed against set rules, not personal circumstances.

Read more: New Zealand residence and PR pathways

Common visa pathways

Many people follow a staged approach rather than applying for residence immediately. Common pathways include:

• Student visa → Work visa → Residence
• Work visa → Residence
• Offshore skilled application → Residence

Each pathway has risks. Policy changes, job market conditions, and personal timing all matter. Starting on the wrong visa can close doors later.

Timing, planning, and reality checks

New Zealand immigration is not fast by default. You should plan for:

• Processing delays
• Evidence requests
• Policy changes mid process
• Job market limitations

Some occupations are in demand. Others are not. Some pathways suit younger applicants. Others do not. Eligibility depends on rules, not effort.

Notes for US, UK and EU applicants

Applicants from the US, UK, and EU often assume the process is simpler. In practice:

• EU applicants may need certified translations
• English language evidence may still apply
• Professional registration can be required
• Job offers must meet local standards

Nationality helps in some cases, but it does not replace eligibility.

How Tasman Visa supports clients

Tasman Visa provides paid immigration advice and application support for New Zealand. We help clients by:

• Explaining options clearly and honestly
• Identifying risks early
• Structuring applications correctly
• Avoiding unrealistic pathways

Official tools and reliable sources

Always rely on official information when checking visa rules. Key resources include:

• Immigration New Zealand website
• Visa instructions for each category
• Processing time and fee pages

Use the official Find a visa tool here