How can we help you immigrate to New Zealand?
Explore your New Zealand visa options and check your eligibility with VisaEnvoy, your trusted Immigration Solicitors
New Zealand Immigration and Visas
Book a consultation to discuss your visa options with our licensed advisers
Current New Zealand visa pathways
The main options open in 2026, and where to read more
New Zealand’s immigration settings changed a lot between 2021 and 2026. Several older visas, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa, the Investor 1 and 2 visas and the Entrepreneur Work Visa, are now closed. The table below lists the main pathways open today. Each name links to our detailed guide.
| Your goal | Visa | Key points |
|---|---|---|
| Work for a New Zealand employer | Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) | Job offer from an accredited employer, an approved Job Check, at least the market rate of pay and usually 2 years of relevant experience. |
| Residence through skilled work | Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa | Rules from 24 August 2026 offer three pathways: 6 points, Skilled Work Experience, and Trades and Technicians. Age 55 or under. |
| Residence in a Green List role | Straight to Residence and Work to Residence | Tier 1 roles can apply for residence straight away. Tier 2 roles need 24 months of qualifying work in New Zealand. See the Green List roles. |
| Buy and run a business | Business Investor Work Visa | Open since 24 November 2025. Invest at least NZD $1 million in an established business (NZD $2 million for the fast track), plus settlement funds. Leads to residence. |
| Invest in New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | Growth category from NZD $5 million or Balanced category from NZD $10 million. No English requirement. |
| Join your partner | Partner Work Visa and Partner Resident Visa | For partners of New Zealand citizens and residents. From 25 September 2026 both partners must be 18 or older. |
| Bring your parents | Parent Resident Visa and Parent Boost Visitor Visa | The resident visa uses a capped selection pool. The Parent Boost Visitor Visa allows long visits of up to 5 years. |
| Study, then work | Student Visa and Post Study Work Visa | Most tertiary students can work up to 25 hours a week during term. Eligible graduates can then apply for open work rights. |
| Visit | Visitor Visa or NZeTA | Visa waiver travellers need an NZeTA and usually pay the NZD $100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. |
Not sure which visa suits you? Try our New Zealand points calculator, or browse all work visas and resident visas.
Frequently asked questions
Who can give New Zealand immigration advice?
In New Zealand, immigration advice must come from a licensed immigration adviser or a New Zealand lawyer, unless an exemption applies. VisaEnvoy’s New Zealand team includes licensed immigration advisers and a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand.
Is the Essential Skills Work Visa still available?
No. The Essential Skills Work Visa closed on 4 July 2022. Most employer sponsored work now goes through the Accredited Employer Work Visa.
What is the fastest way to New Zealand residence?
If your job is a Tier 1 role on the Green List and you have a qualifying offer from an accredited employer, you may be able to apply for Straight to Residence without first working in New Zealand. Otherwise, the Skilled Migrant Category or Work to Residence may suit you.
Can I buy a business in New Zealand to get a visa?
Yes. The Business Investor Work Visa replaced the Entrepreneur Work Visa. Since 6 July 2026 it can also be used to buy a franchise. Many people who were interested in Australia’s closed business innovation visas now look at this option.
Can I work remotely while visiting New Zealand?
Since 27 January 2025, visitors can work remotely for overseas employers or clients. You must not work for a New Zealand employer or provide services to people or businesses in New Zealand. Tax rules may also apply, so get advice for longer stays.
How do I book a consultation?
Use the booking button on this page to choose a time for a video consultation with our New Zealand team. We will review your situation and explain the visa options that fit.
Meet our New Zealand advisers
Mohamed Anas Sirajur Raheem
Barrister and Solicitor, New Zealand
Australian Lawyer
Mohamed Anas Raheem is a New Zealander of Sri Lankan origin, born in Germany and raised in Canada during his formative years, he holds degrees in Law and Political Studies from both the University of Auckland and Victoria University of Wellington.
With extensive experience in New Zealand’s immigration landscape, Mohamed has served as an Immigration Officer (Visa Services) in Wellington and as a Border Officer at Auckland International Airport. His career spans several years in various government departments, where he has honed his expertise in regulatory knowledge, public policy, immigration policy and practice. Additionally, he has worked as a Licensed Immigration Adviser at a prominent New Zealand immigration firm and in a self-employed capacity, providing guidance and support to those navigating the complexities of immigration processes.
Inspired by his own migration experiences, Mohamed is passionate about helping others achieve their dreams in New Zealand. His unique background and professional journey enable him to empathize with clients, ensuring they receive the best possible advice and support.
Mohamed is a New Zealand Immigration Lawyer with VisaEnvoy and an enrolled Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand. He is also admitted as a lawyer in the Supreme Court of Queensland.
- Senior Immigration Consultant
- Registered Migration Agent No. 1576670
- New Zealand Migration Adviser: 202505791
Marney Richardson offers friendly and trustworthy migration advice for investors, businesspeople, skilled professionals, and companies looking to establish in Australia or New Zealand.
Marney has over 10 years’ migration experience in commercial and government sectors. She was the former Manager of Migration Queensland, the Queensland government agency responsible for business and skilled visas and part of Trade and Investment Queensland. She was responsible for state nominated visa policies and creation of Queensland Government visa programs such as the 491 Small Business Owners (SBO) program, Business Innovation and Investment Program – Entrepreneur Stream and the National Innovation Visa (NIV).
Marney specialities include (but are not limited to):
- General Skilled Migration Program
- Employer Sponsored Visas
- Business and Investor Visas (in both Australia and New Zealand)
- Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs)
Book a consultation with Marney here.
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