Changes to the Specific Purpose Work Visa for sports professionals

On 26 May 2025, the visa duration for sports professionals applying or reapplying for the Specific Purpose Work Visa is changing.

On 26 May, changes will be made to the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) that allow a visa duration of up to:  

• 12 months for sports players and professional coaches below national or regional level, and
• 36 months for professional sports players and professional coaches at a national or regional level. 

Professional sports players and professional coaches at a national or regional level who hold a SPWV will now also be able to apply for another SPWV if their contract is extended, allowing a total stay of up to 36 months (inclusive of the duration of their initial SPWV). 

How long you can stay on a Specific Purpose Work Visa

For the purposes of this visa:  

• A 'professional sports player' is someone who has a paid position in a New Zealand sports club to engage in a primary role of competing and training in that sport. 
• A 'professional sports coach' is someone who has a paid position in a New Zealand sports club to engage in a primary role of coaching. 
• 'National or regional level' is someone representing a sports club in a top tier national, trans-Tasman, or international competition. 

To be eligible for a SPWV, the applicant must: 

• be coming to New Zealand to complete a specific purpose or event
• demonstrate they meet the work visa requirements by providing the evidence required for their intended work
• be qualified to undertake the work
• meet health and character requirements
• have time-bound work.  

For more information:

Specific Purpose Work Visa