Planning your move to New Zealand
If you are thinking about moving to New Zealand to live and work, before you move you will need to do your research, check out visas and decide where you could live and work.
Researching New Zealand
Before you move to another country, you need to research what life is like there. It is important to be sure that you will like living in New Zealand, and that it is the right move for you, and your family.
You might want to come for a visit first, to explore the country, experience the lifestyle and meet potential employers.
Check if your skills are in demand
It is also important to make sure you can get a job here.
There are a variety of job opportunities available, but some require specific skills.
Green List roles — jobs we need people for in New Zealand
If your job is not on the list, there may be other work and visa options for you. For example, if you have a job offer and the prospective employer can demonstrate they are unable to find a New Zealander to do the job, you may be able to apply for a work visa.
Finding a job
Explore job websites and contact recruiters. Update your CV for the New Zealand job market, and gather the documents you will need to have your qualifications recognised or to apply for registration.
You can find a list of employment websites, and tips on how to find work, at careers.govt.nz
Job vacancy and recruitment websites — careers.govt.nz
Choosing a visa
Applying for a visa can take time, and there is a fee. Before you start, check your visa options and work out which one is right for you.
Which visa you apply for will depend on how long you want to stay, whether your skills are in demand in New Zealand, and whether you are moving with your family.
Some visas will require you to have a job offer before you apply for the visa.
When you decide on a visa, check what documents you will need to provide.
Protecting yourself from immigration scams
Applying for your visa
Once you have the documents you need, and a job offer if it is required, you can submit your visa application. You can ask your employer or a registered immigration adviser for help, if you need it. There may be a cost for this.
Who can give immigration advice
Make sure you check the requirements of the visa category you are applying under before you send in your application. The application process will take longer if you do not provide the required information.
Planning your move
Use the NZ Ready tool to help plan your move to New Zealand. It can give you a list of things to do for your situation, which will make your move easier.
Researching where you want to live
Think about where you want to live, or where you might need to live for work.
It is a good idea to organise accommodation for when you first arrive. You could stay with family or friends, in a hotel.
Bringing your documents with you
When you are in New Zealand you will find it useful to have certain documents with you. They will make it easier to register for services here.
You should bring:
- medical records, such as doctor or dental records and vaccination certificates
- birth certificates
- marriage certificates
- academic qualifications
- references from previous employers and landlords
- your CV (curriculum vitae/resume)
- credit references
- international driver licences or permits.
Try to have the original or a certified copy of these documents.
Sorting your finances
If you can, set up a New Zealand bank account before you arrive.
You should also research what things cost here.
Managing your money, banking and taxes in New Zealand
Checking what you can bring
New Zealand has laws about what you can and cannot bring into the country. These rules aim to protect our natural environment.
Your luggage is checked when you arrive at our international airports.
Prohibited and restricted items — New Zealand Customs Service
Travelling to New Zealand? — Ministry for Primary Industries
How to declare items when arriving in New Zealand — Ministry for Primary Industries
Settling into New Zealand
After you arrive, it may take a while to settle into New Zealand. Ways to meet people in New Zealand include work social clubs, community groups, volunteering and informal parents' networks.
Setting up your life in New Zealand
Improving your English
If English is not your first language, there are courses you can take to improve your English skills.