To apply for a work visa under the Long Term Business Category, you need to prepare and submit a robust, well-researched business plan. You might like to visit New Zealand before you make an application, so that you can look into business opportunities and do some research.

Once you have written your business plan and gathered all of the supporting documentation needed, you can submit your application directly for assessment.

 

To apply, you will need to complete the Long-Term Business Visa Application (INZ 1058) PDF. The Long-Term Business Visa Guide (INZ 1059) PDF will help you fill in the form, and tells you the evidence you will need to provide.

 

You must be in good health. You will have to be assessed by an approved doctor. Your application must be accompanied by medical and chest x-ray certificates for each person.

 

You must be of good character. You will have to provide a police certificate for all applicants over 17 years.

What is the process and how long will it take?

Processing a work visa under the Long Term Business Category can take approximately three months, although the processing time depends on many factors, for example:

• whether you provide all of the information we need to assess your application at the start
• whether there are any health issues you or your family members have which we need to assess
• how quickly we are able to receive verification from external sources regarding the information you provide
• how quickly you are able to respond to requests we make for further information.

The diagram illustrates the process and potential processing timeframe PDF.

How do I apply?

You may submit your application through your local Immigration New Zealand branch and it will be transferred to the Business Migration Branch, or you can send the application directly to the Business Migration Branch at:

 

Business Migration Branch
PO Box 3705
Wellington
New Zealand

 

We recommend that you keep a copy of your entire application and send the original with supporting documents to us by secure registered courier or registered post.

How much is the application fee for a work visa under the Long Term Business Category?

The work visa application fee under the Long Term Business Category is included in the Fees Guide (INZ 1028) PDF.