top of page

New Zealand

Image by Dan Freeman

New Zealand has earned a global reputation as one of the most livable and peaceful countries in the world. With its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly communities, and strong economy, it offers an excellent balance between professional opportunities and quality of life. The country consistently ranks high for safety, education, and work-life balance, making it a preferred destination for skilled professionals, students, and families alike.

New Zealand’s immigration system is clear, structured, and opportunity-driven, focusing on attracting individuals who can contribute to the nation’s economic and social growth. Through various visa pathways — including Skilled Migration, Work to Residence, Business and Investor Visas, Family Sponsorship, and Student Visas — the government encourages global talent to settle, work, and thrive in the country.

The nation’s workforce is diverse and highly skilled, with growing demand across industries such as healthcare, construction, IT, engineering, and agriculture. In addition, its world-class education system and research facilities make it an outstanding choice for international students aiming for academic excellence and post-study work opportunities.

Red Maple HR provides complete assistance for individuals and families aspiring to migrate to New Zealand — from eligibility assessment and documentation to visa lodgment and post-arrival support. With deep expertise in New Zealand’s immigration framework, we ensure your application process is smooth, transparent, and aligned with the latest immigration regulations.

New Zealand offers more than just a new beginning — it provides a lifestyle defined by freedom, opportunity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a thriving career, a safe environment for your family, or a chance to study in a globally respected system, New Zealand is a destination where dreams truly take shape.

Image by Sulthan Auliya

Migration Programs

New Zealand offers a transparent and well-regulated immigration system designed to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and families who can contribute to its economy and society. Managed by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), these migration programs provide clear pathways to work, residence, and permanent settlement.

1. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa

The Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is the most popular pathway for professionals seeking Permanent Residency (PR) in New Zealand. It is a points-based system that evaluates applicants based on their age, qualifications, work experience, and job offer.

Key Features:

  • Applicants must meet minimum points to be eligible for an invitation to apply.

  • Requires skilled employment or a recognized qualification relevant to New Zealand’s skill needs.

  • Leads directly to Permanent Residency for the applicant and eligible dependents.

  • Freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in New Zealand.

This program is ideal for professionals in healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education.

2. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The Accredited Employer Work Visa allows foreign workers to live and work in New Zealand when sponsored by an employer accredited by Immigration New Zealand.

Key Features:

  • Employer accreditation is mandatory before hiring overseas workers.

  • Valid for up to 3 years and renewable.

  • Applicants must have a valid job offer meeting skill and salary thresholds.

  • Offers a pathway to residence under the Work to Residence Visa category.

This visa is ideal for those with confirmed employment offers in sectors experiencing skill shortages.

3. Work to Residence (WTR) Visa

The Work to Residence Visa provides a pathway for skilled workers to transition from temporary to permanent residency after working for a specified period.

Key Features:

  • Requires employment with an accredited employer or within a long-term skill shortage occupation.

  • After 2 years of continuous work, applicants can apply for residence.

  • Allows dependents to live, work, and study in New Zealand.

This route is suitable for professionals who wish to gain local experience before applying for permanent residency.

4. Green List Pathway

The Green List Visa Pathway is a special category that offers fast-tracked residence to professionals in highly demanded occupations such as healthcare, engineering, ICT, and construction.

Key Features:

  • Includes both Straight to Residence and Work to Residence streams.

  • Simplified process with prioritized visa applications.

  • Applicants must have a valid job offer in an eligible Green List occupation.

This program benefits individuals in sectors critical to New Zealand’s economic and infrastructural growth.

5. Entrepreneur Work Visa

The Entrepreneur Work Visa is designed for individuals who wish to establish or buy a business in New Zealand.

Key Features:

  • Requires a detailed business plan and minimum capital investment (generally NZD 100,000 or more).

  • Applicants earn points based on business experience, investment amount, and job creation.

  • Eligible for Entrepreneur Residence Visa after successfully running the business for at least 2 years.

This visa is ideal for business owners and innovators looking to expand into a stable, high-growth market.

6. Investor Visa Categories (Investor 1 & Investor 2)

New Zealand’s Investor Visa Programs cater to high-net-worth individuals who wish to invest in the local economy and gain residency.

Key Features:

  • Investor 1 (Category): Requires an investment of NZD 10 million for 3 years.

  • Investor 2 (Category): Requires NZD 3 million over 4 years plus a proven business background.

  • Allows the investor and family members to apply for Permanent Residency.

These programs suit global investors seeking stability, secure returns, and long-term settlement options.

7. Family and Partnership Visas

New Zealand encourages family reunification through various Family and Partnership Visa categories.

Key Features:

  • Includes Partner of a New Zealand Citizen/Resident Visa, Parent Resident Visa, and Dependent Child Visa.

  • Allows family members to join their loved ones permanently.

  • Access to education, healthcare, and work rights upon approval.

This program strengthens family unity while supporting successful community integration.

8. Student and Post-Study Work Visa Programs

New Zealand’s education system is globally respected, offering international students a world-class academic environment with migration potential.

Key Features:

  • Student Visa holders can work part-time during study.

  • Graduates can apply for Post-Study Work Visas (1–3 years based on qualification level).

  • Provides pathways to Skilled Migrant or Work to Residence visas after gaining relevant experience.

These programs attract ambitious students who wish to build careers and settle in New Zealand after completing their studies.

bottom of page