Under this category, a maximum of 1,000 skilled Chinese workers at any one time may be granted temporary employment for up to three years, in specified occupations where New Zealand has a skills shortage. Entry will be limited to no more than 100 workers in each occupation at any one time.

There are currently places available under this category.

Requirements you must meet

In addition to meeting our health and good character requirements you must show us evidence that you meet the qualification (and any other requirements) for one of the following occupations.

Requirements your employer must meet

Your New Zealand employer must provide an offer of genuine, sustainable and full-time employment for up to three years in your occupation.

Your employer must have previously complied with, and will continue to comply with, all relevant New Zealand employment and immigration law, and immigration instruction provisions.

If you are approved

If you are approved, you may be granted a work visa for up to three years, depending on the length of your job offer.

If you are granted a work visa for less than three years, you may apply for a further visa for the balance of the period, as long as you still meet all the requirements of these instructions. 

If you work the full three years in New Zealand and later wish to return here under these instructions, you will need to remain outside of New Zealand for at least three years before you can apply again.

Apply

To be approved under this category you must meet all the requirements. Find out how to apply. If you do not meet the requirements, you may be eligible under the Essential Skills work category.