Applications and Timing

Essential Skills Work Visa Applications

To be granted an Essential Skills work visa, you need to apply.  You can download your application here – Work Visa/Application (PDF,373 KB).

A Guide to Completing your Essential Skills visa is also available for download, here – Work Visa/Permit Guide (PDF, 309 KB).

FAQs

In addition to my completed application, what else will you need from me?

Several things:

• A valid passport
• 1 passport-sized photo less than 6 months old
• An Employer Supplementary Form (PDF,169 KB)
• Evidence you are qualified by training or experience to do the job offered
• An employment agreement, including start/end dates and a copy of your contract
• Payment

How much will this application cost?

Application fees depend on where you lodge your application, and differs by country, and by your citizenship.  For instance, fees are waived for work applications made in the US, but a US citizen applying for a work visa from New Zealand would have a fee to pay.  To find out more, ask your nearest New Zealand consulate or you can use Immigration New Zealand’s online fees finder.   To use the online tool, the Essential Skills work visa is simply a work visa and/or work permit.
(A permit allows you to work in New Zealand, and a visa allows you to leave and re-enter the country whenver you like.  Therefore, if you plan on travelling while working in New Zealand, you will need to apply and pay for both the work permit and the work visa.)

Is there anything else I can provide to assist with the approval of my application?

Your employer will need to complete the Employer Supplementary Form (PDF, 113 KB) and provide any other evidence to support the fact that the skills you offer to New Zealand are needed.  For example, a letter of support from the industry body that supports your new employer, indicating a need for your qualifications and experience.  Or simply that your job title is listed on either the Immediate or Long Term Skill Shortage Lists and you meet the requirements set out on one of the lists.

Will I need a medical certificate?

Not if you are applying to stay in New Zealand for less than six months.  For stays between 6 and 12 months you may need to have a chest x-ray, and for any stay of more than 12 months you will need to complete a full medical exam.

To find out more, view the Immigration New Zealand Health Requirements (PFD, 158 KB) leaflet.

How long will it take to be approved for this visa?

Providing you have all your paperwork in order, you may hear within days, and should hear within several weeks.

Where should I submit my application?

If you live overseas, to your nearest Immigration New Zealand branch or New Zealand consulate, listed here.   If you are in New Zealand, submit it to one of our branches in Auckland, Dunedin, Queenstown, Hamilton. Wellington, Christchurch or Palmerston North, click here for locales.