NZ Specific Purpose Work Visa: Complete Guide

Key Takeaways:

• The NZ Specific Purpose Work Visa lets you work for a specific reason or event, staying up to three years.
• Eligible purposes include business transfers, sports events, installing equipment, and more, each with unique evidence requirements.
• Ineligibility includes entertainment workers, guardians with visitor visas, and Chinese tour guides; specific health, character, and financial criteria must be met.

Imagine getting the chance to work in a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures—New Zealand. The New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa opens this door, allowing you to travel and work there for a particular reason or event. Whether you’re a business professional, a sports coach, or an examiner, this visa lets you contribute your skills to New Zealand’s diverse and dynamic economy. You’ll have the flexibility to work for a designated employer for the time it takes to complete your purpose, which could be as long as three years.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining the Specific Purpose Work Visa. From the types of specific events that qualify, like sports judging or equipment installation, to the essential eligibility requirements you must meet, we have all the details covered. We’ll also guide you on who cannot apply for this visa and help ensure you have everything prepared for a smooth application process. Dive in to discover how you can turn a specific opportunity into an unforgettable New Zealand experience.

How Can You Obtain a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

A Specific Purpose Work Visa for New Zealand allows you to travel for a specific reason or event. You can work for a particular employer for the duration needed to fulfill your purpose. Depending on your reason for traveling, you can stay for up to three years.

Why Apply for a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

Here are 12 reasons you might apply for a Specific Purpose Work Visa:

• Short-term second employment
• Business transfer
• Business activities lasting over three months
• Exploring investment opportunities
• Applying for an Entrepreneur Residence Visa
• Acting as referees or judges in sports events, shows, displays, or exhibitions
• Dance and music examinations
• Installing or servicing specialized machinery or equipment from an overseas company
• Professional sports players or coaches
• Nurses seeking occupational registration
• Critical Workers with a Critical Purpose Visitor Visa
• Other specific purposes for which you have the skills or expertise

How Long Can You Stay?

The length of your stay and required evidence depends on the reason for your visit. Each purpose may demand different documentation or proofs to justify the need for your presence in New Zealand.

For example:

• Business Activities: If you are transferred for business activities exceeding three months.
• Entrepreneur Residence Visa: When you need to apply for this specific visa.
• Sports and Culture: Participation in sports events, acting as examiners for dance and music, or judging exhibitions.

What Evidence Do You Need?

To get more details about the evidence you must provide for each type of specific purpose, you can visit the New Zealand Immigration Official Website.

This ensures you have all the necessary documentation, which can notably streamline the application process and improve your chances of approval.

By familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements, you can better prepare and ensure that your journey to New Zealand for your specific purpose is smooth and efficient.

Who Is Ineligible to Apply for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

Certain individuals cannot apply for a Specific Purpose Work visa in New Zealand. Here’s a list of those who must seek alternative visa options:

• Entertainment Industry Workers: If you work in the entertainment industry, you need to apply for an Entertainers Work Visa.
• Guardians Accompanying a Student: If you hold a current visitor visa as a guardian accompanying a student to New Zealand, you are ineligible.
• Tour Guides from China: If you are a tour guide from China, you must apply for a China Special Work Visa instead.

What Are the Requirements to Apply for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

To apply for a Specific Purpose Work visa, you need to meet these criteria:

• Good Health: You should be in good health.
• Good Character: You must have a clean character record.
• Compliance: You need to intend to meet the conditions of your visa.
• Specific Purpose: You should have a clear and specific reason for traveling to New Zealand.
• Financial Stability: You must have sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Qualifications or Experience: Relevant qualifications or work experience are required.
• Plan to Leave: You must plan to leave New Zealand after your purpose is fulfilled.

What Are the Specific Requirements for a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

The specific requirements for the visa depend on the particular purpose of your visit. According to Immigration New Zealand, you need to fulfill particular eligibility criteria based on your intended activity in New Zealand.

To find detailed information and confirm if you qualify for the Specific Purpose Work visa, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website.

By understanding who is ineligible, the eligibility prerequisites, and the specific requirements, you can better assess your qualification for the New Zealand Specific Purpose Work visa.

What Documents Are Needed for a Specific Purpose Work Visa in New Zealand?

What Identification Documents Are Required?

To prove your identity for a Specific Purpose Work visa, you must provide:

• Passport or certificate of identity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after you plan to leave New Zealand. When applying online, upload a copy of your passport.
• Photos of your head and shoulders: These must meet New Zealand’s photo requirements. Submit one photo for online applications and two for paper applications.

Do I Need a Police Certificate?

Yes, you must provide a police certificate to demonstrate good character and that you have no criminal record. If you’ve previously submitted a police certificate to Immigration New Zealand for an earlier visa application, you don’t need to submit another.

How Do I Show Evidence of Good Health?

To confirm your good health, provide the necessary health documentation:

• If your stay is less than a year, you do not need to submit a chest x-ray or medical examination results.

What Proof of Time in New Zealand is Necessary?

You must specify the duration of your stay for the particular purpose. Acceptable forms of evidence include:

• Job offer
• Letter of invitation
• Schedule of events

What Is the Employer Supplementary Form?

Your New Zealand employer must complete this form if offering paid employment for certain roles:

• Important positions in a major New Zealand company or an international branch
• Dance or music examiners
• Sports players or professional coaches for a New Zealand sports club
• Philippines nurses with District Health Board job offers

How to Provide Evidence of Qualifications and/or Work Experience?

Show proof of your specific qualifications or work experience by providing:

• Employment documentation or references
• Recognized international dance or music teaching certificates
• Philippines nurse qualifications
• Documents proving international merit or distinction

What Must I Submit to Prove I Will Return After My Stay?

You need to establish that you will leave New Zealand upon completing your purpose. Documents to submit include:

• Return ticket or proof of sufficient funds to purchase one
• A letter from your New Zealand employer guaranteeing return costs

How to Prove Sufficient Funds for Your Stay?

To show you can support yourself financially, submit one of the following:

• Bank statements
• Evidence of wages, salary, or other payments
• Guarantee of maintenance and accommodation by your employer
• Sponsorship letter from a relative or friend in New Zealand

What Documentation is Required for Specific Purposes or Events?

The exact documents depend on the purpose of your stay. Examples include:

• Invitations for specific events
• Contracts or job offers related to your purpose
• Detailed schedules or plans for your visit

For detailed information and latest updates, refer to the official New Zealand Immigration website.

What Must My Employer Do For a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

To meet all the New Zealand visa requirements for a Specific Purpose Work visa, your employer must provide one of the following documents:

• A job offer
• Invitation letter
• Schedule of events

These documents must:

• Specify the length of time you will need to be in New Zealand for the specific purpose or event
• Describe the specific purpose or event for which you will need to be in New Zealand
• Include a guarantee that your employer will cover the cost of your return home if you can’t cover it yourself

Employer Supplementary Form

Your employer must complete an Employer Supplementary Form if they will provide paid employment. This form should be given to you to include with your work visa application.

Note: If you are a dance or music examiner who has received a written invitation from your employer, you don’t need an Employer Supplementary Form.

How to Apply Online for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

Follow these steps to apply online for a Specific Purpose Work Visa:

1. Complete the visa application

• Go to the official New Zealand Immigration website and click ‘Apply Now’ for the Specific Purpose Work visa. Make sure you provide accurate information.
• You need to log in or create a RealMe account. Once the account is set up, you will be redirected to apply for your New Zealand visa.
• Ensure you specify that you are applying for a Specific Purpose Work visa and answer all the questions truthfully.

1. Upload the required documents

• During your online application, upload all necessary documents for a Specific Purpose Work visa. Documents must be scanned and uploaded as PDF files and should not exceed 10MB.

1. Pay the required fees

• Pay with a Credit Card or Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay). Enter the required card information to complete your payment.

1. Submit the application

• After completing the application, submit it online. You will receive a notification when your eVisa is issued.
• Print the eVisa letter and bring it with you when you travel to New Zealand. This eVisa allows you to enter and stay in New Zealand for the duration permitted by your visa.

How Do I Apply for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa on Paper?

To apply on paper for a Specific Purpose Work Visa in New Zealand, follow these steps:

• Complete the Application Form:

• Use capital letters to fill out the Specific Purpose Work visa application form.
• Ensure all required fields are completed.
• Attach the necessary photos.

• Book an Appointment with VFS.GLOBAL:

• Locate your nearest visa application center through the New Zealand Immigration website.
• Upon booking, you will receive an email with your appointment confirmation and a letter of appointment.

• Attend the Appointment:

• Submit all required documents. Missing any documents can lead to your application being declined.
• Pay the necessary fees using a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay).

• Await a Decision:

• After processing, you will receive the outcome via email.
• The processing time is generally within a month.

What Conditions Must I Meet with a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

Upon receiving your Specific Purpose Work visa, you must adhere to these conditions:

• Entry Permission:
• Apply for entry permission upon arriving in New Zealand.
• Complete the arrival card provided during your travel and present it with your passport to the Immigration Officers.
• Travel Conditions:
• Ensure you have valid multiple-entry travel conditions to leave and re-enter New Zealand as needed.
• Departure Arrangements:
• Possess a return ticket or enough funds to purchase one.
• Employment Restrictions:
• Work solely for the employer and in the location specified on your visa.
• Visa Expiry:
• Leave New Zealand before your visa expires.

Can I Reapply for Another New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

If you need additional time to complete your specific purpose, you can apply for another Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa. The provisions include:

• Senior Business Personnel:
• Eligible for an extension to stay for another year.
• Multinational Company Transfers:
• Businesspersons being transferred within the multinational company to New Zealand can apply for an extension of up to three years.

What Is the Processing Time for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa?

• Typical Processing Time: Standard processing time is around 29 days.
• Processing Efficiency: 90% of applications are processed within this period.

For authoritative information on this topic, refer to the official New Zealand Immigration website.

How Much Does a Specific Purpose Work Visa for New Zealand Cost?

The cost of a Specific Purpose Work Visa for New Zealand depends on multiple factors, such as the application method (online or paper) and the country from which you are applying.

Online Application Fees

• Application Fee: NZD $735

Paper Application Fees

• Application Fee: NZD $620 — $745
• Courier Fee: NZD $12 — $125
• Visa Application Center Fee: NZD $40 — $80

Note: All fees for NZ visas are non-refundable.

How Long is a Specific Purpose Work Visa Valid in New Zealand?

The validity period of a Specific Purpose Work Visa varies based on the specific purpose for which it is issued. Below are the details of the validity periods for different purposes:

• Short-term secondment: 12 months
• Business person being transferred: 3 years
• Business activities for more than three months: 12 months
• Investigating investment opportunities: 12 months
• Applying for an Entrepreneur Residence Visa: 9 months
• Referee or judge of sports events, shows, displays, or exhibitions: 6 months
• Dance and music examiner: 6 months
• Installers or servicers of specialized machinery or equipment supplied by an overseas company: 3 months
• Sports player or professional sports coach: 3 years
• Philippines nurse to get occupational registration: 3 months
• Critical worker with a Critical Purpose Visitor Visa: 3 years
• Other specific purpose or event: 6 months

For more detailed information about applying for a specific-purpose work visa, you can refer to the official Immigration New Zealand website.

Can You Change Employers on a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

On a Specific Purpose Work Visa, you must work for the employer detailed in the visa application. The visa restricts you to a specific job and location.

Is Studying Permitted on a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

No, you cannot study while holding a Specific Purpose Work Visa in New Zealand. If you wish to study, you must apply for a Student Visa.

Can You Bring Your Partner or Children with a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

The Specific Purpose Work Visa does not include provisions to bring your partner or children as dependents. However, they can apply for visas based on their relationship with you. These options include:

• New Zealand Child of a Worker Visitor Visa
• New Zealand Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa

Do You Need an IRD Number for a Specific Purpose Work Visa?

Yes, you will need an IRD number, which is issued by Inland Revenue, New Zealand’s tax service. Your IRD number is unique and links all your tax, entitlement, and personal details.

You can apply for an IRD number by:

• Completing an IRD number application form (IR742)
• Applying online

For more information, you can visit the New Zealand Inland Revenue website.

This brief outline captures the essential details you need regarding the Specific Purpose Work Visa in New Zealand. It’s important to stay informed about your visa conditions and comply with the regulations to ensure a smooth experience while living and working in New Zealand.

Certainly! Here is a structured list of five official and helpful external resources relevant to obtaining a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa:

1. Immigration New Zealand – Specific Purpose or Event Visa Information

• Description: This page provides comprehensive information on the Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa, including eligibility criteria, required documentation, application process, and frequently asked questions.
• Link: Immigration New Zealand – Specific Purpose or Event Visa

2. New Zealand Immigration Application Forms

• Description: Here, you will find all the necessary forms required for applying for various New Zealand visas, including the Specific Purpose Work Visa. The forms section also includes guides for completing each type of application.
• Link: Immigration New Zealand – Application Forms

3. New Zealand Visa Processing Fees

• Description: This resource provides detailed information on the fees associated with different New Zealand visas, including the Specific Purpose Work Visa. It helps applicants understand the costs involved in the visa application process.
• Link: Immigration New Zealand – Visa Fees

4. Inland Revenue – IRD Number Application

• Description: If you are working in New Zealand, you will need an IRD number for tax purposes. This link takes you to the Inland Revenue website, where you can find information on how to apply for an IRD number, including online and paper application options.
• Link: Inland Revenue – IRD Number Application

5. New Zealand Ministry of Health – Immigration Health Requirements

• Description: This page includes important information on the health requirements for a New Zealand visa, including medical examination and chest x-ray requirements. This is crucial for ensuring you meet the health standards necessary for your visa application.
• Link: Ministry of Health – Immigration Health Requirements

These resources are authoritative and will provide you with the necessary information and forms to help you navigate the process of applying for a New Zealand Specific Purpose Work Visa efficiently.