Explore all updated New Zealand work visa types now available on the new Immigration NZ portal as of May 2025. From skilled work to working holiday visas, find your perfect pathway to work and live in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Updated Immigration Website Goes Live With Easier Access to Work Visas
As of May 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has officially launched its redesigned immigration portal, offering a streamlined and user-friendly experience for individuals seeking to work in New Zealand. The new website is part of INZ’s broader digital transformation strategy and now features an improved layout that makes it significantly easier to browse, compare, and apply for New Zealand work visas.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, a recent graduate, a seasonal worker, or an adventurous traveler, the portal’s new “Mahi” (Work) section has a visa option tailored to your goals.
🗂️ Complete List of New Zealand Work Visa Types (Updated May 2025)
The new portal lists all active work visa categories under clearly labeled sections. Here are the key visa types available as of May 2025:
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Who it’s for: Skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer
Key features:
- Requires an offer of employment from a government-accredited employer
- Allows full-time work in approved roles
- Can lead to permanent residency pathways like the Green List or Straight to Residence Visa
2. Working Holiday Visa
Who it’s for: Young travelers aged 18–30 or 18–35 (depending on country agreements)
Key features:
- Valid for 12 months (or 23 months for UK citizens)
- Possible 3-month extension in sectors like horticulture or viticulture
- Combines travel and temporary work in New Zealand
3. Partner Work Visa
Who it’s for: Partners of New Zealand work or student visa holders
Key features:
- Enables partners to live and work in New Zealand while their spouse or partner studies or works
- Work rights depend on the partner’s visa category and job classification
4. Post Study Work Visa
Who it’s for: International students graduating from New Zealand institutions
Key features:
- Valid for up to 3 years
- Allows open work rights
- Can be a pathway to residency under the Skilled Migrant or Green List residence categories
5. Seasonal and Industry-Specific Visas
Who it’s for: Workers in niche or short-term industries
Types include:
- Seasonal Work Visas: Primarily for horticulture and viticulture
- Entertainment Visa: For film, music, or cultural events
- Fishing Crew Visa: For working on New Zealand fishing vessels
- Religious Worker Visa: For those working in faith-based organizations
6. Work While Studying or Visiting
Who it’s for: Current student or visitor visa holders
Key features:
- Students: Can work up to 20 hours per week during study and full-time during scheduled breaks
- Visitors: May engage in short-term business activities or remote work if visa conditions permit
7. Resident Visas That Include Work Rights
Who it’s for: Individuals holding New Zealand residence or permanent residence visas
Key features:
- No job restrictions — work in any job for any employer
- Includes categories like the Skilled Migrant Category, Straight to Residence Visa, and the Green List Residence Visa
🧭 Not Sure Which Visa is Right for You? Try These Tools
The new portal isn’t just more organized — it’s smarter. Two new tools help users quickly find the right visa:
- Visa Filter Tool: Select your purpose (work, holiday, study), age, and nationality to get personalized visa recommendations.
- Visa Lookup Feature: Located in the site’s footer, this smart search allows you to type keywords like “holiday” or “work” to instantly explore relevant visa types.
🌏 Why This Matters for International Applicants
This update is more than a website redesign — it’s a strategic move to simplify the New Zealand immigration process and attract more global talent. As international mobility increases post-pandemic, the updated portal helps reduce confusion, save time, and ensure applicants clearly understand their visa options.
With over a dozen visa types covering everything from seasonal farm work to tech industry positions, New Zealand continues to position itself as one of the most attractive destinations for skilled migration, working holidays, and graduate careers.
📌 Quick Links & References
Need help choosing a visa?
Use the Visa Filter Tool on the INZ website to find out which work visa suits your profile best. It’s quick, accurate, and helps streamline your application process.