As a New Zealand employer, you can apply to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) for accreditation to offer employment to skilled workers from overseas. Once accredited, you can offer work to non-New Zealand citizens or residents without each time having to prove that there are no suitably qualified New Zealanders available or readily able to be trained to fill the position(s). These skilled workers are employed under the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Policy, and can become eligible for New Zealand residence after two years.
To learn about the application process and the steps involved, please read each of the following sections:
Our process chart [35KB] DOC outlines the process.
How do your skilled workers from overseas gain work visas/permits
Once you gain employer accreditation, your potential skilled worker(s) from overseas can lodge a Talent (Accredited Employer) work visa/permit application at their local INZ branch. To be eligible for approval, both you and the applicant(s) need to meet certain requirements.
Employees applying for residence
After working for an accredited employer for 24 months, employees can apply for residence under the Residence from Work Category.
If you’d like a quick answer to a specific question, follow this link to our frequently asked questions.
Still unsure which option is best for your business?
Use our table to see which option suits you best, or see the Immigration guide for Employers (NZIS 1031) PDF for an overview of all INZ work policies.