New Zealand Work Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders
Fee Breakdown
Key Requirements
- ✓ Valid job offer from a New Zealand employer or eligibility under a specific work visa category
- ✓ Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) requires employer to be accredited with Immigration New Zealand
- ✓ Proof of relevant qualifications and work experience
- ✓ English language proficiency evidence
- ✓ Health and character clearance
- ✓ Medical examination may be required
- ✓ Employer must demonstrate role could not be filled by a New Zealand resident or citizen in certain categories
Documents Required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Secure a job offer from an Immigration New Zealand accredited employer
Step 2: Ensure the employer has completed the job check process with INZ
Step 3: Create or log in to your INZ online account at immigration.govt.nz
Step 4: Complete the Accredited Employer Work Visa application and upload all documents
Step 5: Pay the work visa application fee of NZD 500 online
Step 6: Undergo a medical examination and obtain police clearance from Pakistan
Step 7: Submit biometric information if required at an authorized collection center
Step 8: Monitor the application and respond promptly to any INZ requests
Step 9: Receive the visa decision; if approved, the work visa is electronically linked to your passport
⚠️ Important Notes
As of 2023, New Zealand's primary work visa pathway is the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Employers must be accredited and the job must pass a job check before a Pakistani applicant can apply. Processing times can be lengthy. Medical examinations including chest X-rays are typically required for Pakistani nationals.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✗ Employer not accredited by Immigration New Zealand
- ✗ Job offer does not meet minimum wage or skill requirements
- ✗ Failure to demonstrate relevant qualifications or experience
- ✗ Health issues identified during medical examination
- ✗ Criminal record or failure to disclose it
- ✗ Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- ✗ Previous immigration violations
Frequently Asked Questions
The AEWV is the primary work visa for migrants wanting to work in New Zealand. It requires the employer to be accredited with INZ and the specific job role to have passed a job check confirming no suitable New Zealand worker was available.
Yes, eligible work visa holders may apply for partner and dependent child visas. Eligibility depends on your visa category and wage level.
Yes, for the AEWV, the offered salary must meet the New Zealand median wage or higher, which was around NZD 31.61 per hour as of 2024. Some exceptions apply for certain roles.
Yes, working in New Zealand can be a pathway to residence, particularly through the Skilled Migrant Category or the Accredited Employer Work Visa to Residence pathway, depending on your occupation, salary, and time worked in New Zealand.
Ready to Apply?
Apply through the official portal. Always use official government/embassy websites.
Apply for New Zealand Work Visa →