Question 1

What is the NZeTA?

Accepted Answer

The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority is mandatory for travellers from visa-waiver countries and cruise-ship passengers from any country. It costs NZ$17 (mobile) or NZ$23 (web) plus the NZ$100 International Visitor Levy and is valid for 2 years and multiple entries. NZeTA holders still need to comply with the visitor visa conditions on arrival (typically 90 days, sometimes 6 months for UK passport holders).

Question 2

How does the Accredited Employer Work Visa work?

Accepted Answer

AEWV is a 3-step process: the employer must first be Accredited (Standard, High-Volume, Triangular, or Franchisee), then post a Job Check confirming the role meets pay and conditions, and then the worker applies for the visa. The visa is issued in entry-level, intermediate, or senior tier based on the role's pay band and the worker's qualifications, with maximum durations of 5 years.

Question 3

How does the Skilled Migrant 6-points system work?

Accepted Answer

Applicants need to score at least 6 points across these categories: qualification (3–6 points depending on Bachelor's, Master's, PhD), occupation registration (for regulated occupations), income premium (1–3 points based on income above the median wage), and NZ-acquired work or study experience. Reaching 6 points and having an accredited skilled job in NZ qualifies for an Expression of Interest (EoI), which is then assessed.

Question 4

What is the Post-Study Work Visa?

Accepted Answer

PSWV gives graduates of recognised NZ qualifications 1–3 years of open work rights, depending on the level and location of study. Master's and PhD graduates get the full 3 years; Level 7 graduates get 3 years; Level 4–6 get 1 year (with location-based rules). PSWV is often used as a bridge to AEWV and SMC residence applications.

Question 5

How does the Parent Resident category work?

Accepted Answer

The Parent Resident category is a ballot-based system: parents of NZ citizens or residents register an Expression of Interest, and INZ runs ballots multiple times per year selecting EoIs at random subject to a sponsorship-income test. The sponsoring child must meet a New Zealand-based income threshold, scaled by the number of parents being sponsored. The Parent Retirement category is income- and investment-based with no ballot.

Question 6

When can I apply for New Zealand citizenship?

Accepted Answer

Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after 5 years of New Zealand residence, with at least 240 days in NZ in each of those 5 years and 1,350 total days. Applicants must have intent to remain in NZ, demonstrate good character, and have sufficient English-language skills. Dual citizenship is permitted.

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AEWV vs Essential Skills (New Zealand)

Working Holiday vs Post-Study Work (New Zealand)

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New Zealand Visa Financial Requirements Guide

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New Zealand Visa Refusal Reasons and How to Avoid Them

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New Zealand Working Holiday Complete Guide

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