Skip to main content

Work that leads to residence

If you’re 55 or younger and want to live in New Zealand (NZ) permanently, you can apply for a resident visa, or a work visa that leads to residence after working here for 2 years.

Changes to skilled residence application processing priorities

From , priority will be given to processing applications for the following skilled residence visas:

  • Straight to Residence Visa
  • Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
  • Work to Residence Visa.

Visas that lead to residence

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has visas for different situations, including visas that lead to permanent residence. Check if you qualify for 1 of these.

If you have skills and experience

If you have skills and talents NZ needs

If you’re an entrepreneur or innovator

If you want to move to NZ from the Pacific Islands

If you’re a religious worker

Other visa options that lead to residence

You may be able to apply for residence if you’ve been working in New Zealand for 2 years on a temporary work visa.

Explore visa options for living here permanently — INZ

How to apply for a resident, work or other type of visa

You can either apply online or on paper for a work or other type of visa from INZ. Check INZ’s website for:

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

Was this page helpful?
Thanks, do you want to tell us more?

Do not enter personal information. All fields are optional.

Last updated