Details of Skilled Migrant Category changes released
Immigration New Zealand has released further detail on the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) changes that will take effect in late August 2026. These updates build on the Government’s earlier announcement introducing two new residence pathways, updated points settings, and revised work experience requirements. Key occupation lists now published INZ has confirmed three important lists that […]
Insurance options when moving to New Zealand
This is an article from Lucid Advice Limited, our experienced insurance advice partner, who offer a great service providing insurance guidance to Brits relocating to New Zealand: Lucid Advice Limited is a New Zealand based, family‑owned insurance advice business founded by Jack and Lindsay Newman. As fellow Brits who made the move themselves and are […]
Immigration New Zealand clarifies open work visa employment conditions
Immigration New Zealand has announced changes to the employment conditions attached to open work visas. These changes take effect on 20th April 2026. An open work visa allows you to work in almost any job, for almost any employer, anywhere in New Zealand. However, what has never been clearly stated in the immigration instructions is […]
47 New Roles Added to the National Occupation List (NOL) for AEWV
From 9 March 2026, Immigration New Zealand will recognise 47 additional occupations at skill levels 1 to 3 under the National Occupation List (NOL) for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications. At the same time, 3 roles are being reclassified from skill level 3 to skill level 4. These updates form part of New Zealand’s […]
New Zealand Immigration Median Wage Increasing in March 2026 — What You Need to Know
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed that the immigration median wage will increase to $35.00 per hour on 9 March 2026. While the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) no longer uses the median wage as a general requirement, many residence and family‑related rules still do. This means the change may affect eligibility, timing, and the steps […]
New Zealand Immigration in 2025 – Policy Change, Real People, and What Comes Next
Looking back over the past year, one thing is clear – New Zealand immigration has remained as busy, complex and fast-moving as ever, both in policy terms and in the lives of the clients I work with every day. For migrants, employers and families alike, this has meant new opportunities in some areas, tighter settings […]
New Roles Added to the National Occupation List (NOL) – Transitioning from ANZSCO
A significant update has been announced for the New Zealand labour-migration system: the National Occupation List (NOL) will gradually replace the Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). This transition means a broader range of occupations will be recognised under the new framework, with more visa categories adopting the NOL. What this means […]
Upcoming changes to the Skilled Migrant Category in 2026
The New Zealand Government has announced significant updates to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, due to take effect in August 2026. These changes are designed to strengthen long-term workforce planning, give greater recognition to practical skills, and help employers retain valued staff. New Skilled Migrant Category pathways From mid-2026, two additional residence pathways […]
Parent Boost Visitor Visa Details
The Parent Boost Visitor Visa opens for applications on 29th September 2025. It has been designed to help parents of New Zealand citizens and residents spend extended time with their families. This visa allows eligible parents to: Stay in New Zealand for up to 5 years on a single visa. Leave and re-enter New Zealand […]
New Zealand Professional Registration Boards
There are a number of roles, particularly health care roles on the Green List, that require you to have occupational registration in order to work in New Zealand and to be able to get a visa. Many of these roles can get you on the Straight to Residence pathway. In some industries, you will need […]
Median Wage Increase to Impact Visa Eligibility from 18 August 2025
From 18 August 2025, New Zealand’s median wage will increase to NZ$33.56 per hour, up from the current NZ$31.61. This change will have a direct impact on visa eligibility settings across several key immigration pathways. For applicants under the Skilled Migrant Category, including both the Green List Straight to Residence and Work to Residence visas, […]
New Zealand Parent Resident Visa Updates – What You Need to Know
If you’re considering reuniting with family in New Zealand, recent updates to the Parent Resident Visa category may work in your favour. From 1 July 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has made some adjustments to the way this visa category is managed. These changes are designed to simplify the process for families and improve transparency […]
INZ Expands List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment
From 23 June 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will update and broaden the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment, offering a more efficient route for visa applicants with overseas qualifications. This update introduces qualifications from nine additional countries, meaning applicants from these nations may no longer need to undergo an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) when […]
New Trades Roles Added to Green List’s Work to Residence Pathway from August 2025
The New Zealand Government has announced that, from 18 August 2025, ten trades occupations will be added to Tier 2 of the Green List, opening up new opportunities under the Work to Residence visa category. This development is part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to address skill shortages and support long-term workforce needs across key […]
How to Immigrate to the US from New Zealand Through Marriage
If you are a New Zealand national who is married to a U.S citizen, you are eligible to apply for a marriage-based green card. This green card allows you to live and work in the United States indefinitely. In this article, we explain the application process step-by-step. Who Can Apply for a Marriage-Based Green […]
New ‘Parent Boost’ Visitor Visa to Reunite Families in New Zealand
In a significant move to support family reunification and strengthen the country’s appeal to skilled migrants, the New Zealand Government has unveiled the Parent Boost Visa – a long-term visitor visa aimed at helping families spend more quality time together. This new visa category will allow parents of New Zealand citizens and residents to stay […]
Professional Currency Transfers – an article from Halo Financial
This is an article from Halo Financial, our experienced foreign exchange partner, who provide a great service when helping with money transfers to New Zealand. Personal Currency Transfers, with Halo Financial If recent events have taught us anything, it’s this: planning for the future isn’t necessarily one-and-done. When investing in your own future, it can […]
How US Citizens Can Move to New Zealand on a Partner Visa
Thinking about leaving the US and starting a new life in New Zealand with your Kiwi partner? You’re not alone. Recent data shows a significant increase in Americans searching for how to move to New Zealand. For those in a relationship with a New Zealander, the process may be more accessible than you think. New […]
Want to move to New Zealand from the USA?
Thinking About Leaving the USA? New Zealand’s Straight to Residence Visa Could Be Your Best Route In Over the past few months, there’s been a surge in Americans Googling how to move to New Zealand from the USA – and it’s not just daydreaming. For many skilled professionals, especially those in healthcare, engineering, education, and […]
A Golden Opportunity for Healthcare Professionals
New Zealand’s Straight to Residence Visa If you’re a healthcare professional considering an overseas move, New Zealand may be closer than you think – permanently. Thanks to the Tier 1 Green List, many frontline health workers can now apply for residence from day one through the Straight to Residence Visa pathway. This policy is a […]
The Green List Advantage
How Tier 1 of the Green List Makes Moving to New Zealand Easier New Zealand continues to offer exciting opportunities for skilled professionals, particularly in sectors experiencing long-term skill shortages. The Green List provides a significant advantage for eligible migrants, offering a streamlined pathway to residence. While some industries have slowed, demand remains strong for […]
Primary School Teachers added to Tier 1 of NZ Green List
Good news for Primary School Teachers wanting to move to New Zealand. From 26 March 2025, this role will be added to Tier 1 of the Green List in New Zealand, which means that Primary School Teachers will be able to apply for a Straight to Residence visa. To meet the requirements, you’ll need a […]
Work in New Zealand – Principal Hydraulic Modeller
Calling all experienced, senior Hydraulic Modellers who would like the opportunity to work for a diverse and inclusive company in New Zealand! This role would be perfect for a returning Kiwi or their partner, wanting to continue their career in Christchurch, NZ. Our employer is also accredited and is happy to employ someone from overseas […]
Introducing Majesty Mortgages
At Relocate Down Under we partner with suppliers of products and services that are relevant to our clients, and will help with their experience of relocating to New Zealand. We will only partner with hand selected suppliers who share the same values as ourselves. Majesty Mortgages is a boutique mortgage brokerage that is based in […]
Parent Resident Visa EOI Tool
Immigration New Zealand have launched a new tool so that you can check whether your Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Parent Resident Visa has been successful in the ballot, which gets drawn every 3 months. The Parent Resident Visa is a bit of a waiting game, where you keep your fingers crossed that you’ll […]
New Zealand welcomes digital nomads and remote workers
New Zealand is opening its doors to digital nomads! Recent updates to visitor visa conditions now allow tourists to work remotely for overseas employers while experiencing everything New Zealand has to offer. From today, new visa conditions will allow visitors to stay connected to their overseas jobs or clients without breaching visa conditions. The change […]
Free Training with Gold Star Pro
Today I’m stepping outside my usual content around New Zealand Immigration News, to bring you news of a Free Training Session with Gold Star Pro on Tuesday 28th January 2025 at 5pm (UK time). This isn’t just a random software recommendation; it’s the tool I’ve started using to keep my business running smoothly and efficiently. […]
Partner Visa FAQs
Bringing your partner to live in New Zealand can be an exciting but often confusing process. This article addresses some of the most common FAQs I receive from Kiwis and their partners about getting a Partner of a New Zealander visa. Frequently Asked Questions: Who can apply for a Partner of a New Zealander Visa? […]
2025 reforms to the AEWV Announced
As an early Christmas present, Immigration New Zealand have announced a number of reforms to the AEWV (Accredited Employer Work Visa), that are set to roll out across 2025. These changes aim to simplify processes, and include removing wage thresholds, easing work experience requirements, and improving the Job Check process. Key Changes Starting 27 January […]
Latest AEWV Processing Times
Immigration New Zealand have just updated their processing times for Accredited Employer Work Visa applications, Job Checks and Employer Accreditation. Visa/product type Average wait time 80% of applications Employer accreditations for AEWV Accreditation renewals 5 weeks 5 weeks 11 weeks 11 weeks Job checks (All roles) Job checks (Green list roles) Job checks (ANZSCO […]
Professional Currency Transfers – an article from Corpay Cross-Border
This is an article from Corpay, our experienced foreign exchange partner, who provide a great service when helping with money transfers to New Zealand. Personal Currency Transfers, with Corpay Cross-Border If recent events have taught us anything, it’s this: planning for the future isn’t necessarily one-and-done. When investing in your own future, it can help […]
Changes to Work Rights for Partners of Migrant Workers in New Zealand
From 2nd December 2024, the New Zealand government will expand open work rights to more partners of migrant workers. These changes aim to strengthen family ties and help fill critical gaps in the workforce. Key Changes: Eligibility for Open Work Rights: Partners of migrants holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) can receive open work […]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Partner of a New Zealander Visa – With Expert Support Every Step of the Way
Navigating the visa process to move to New Zealand as the partner of a Kiwi can be daunting. With so much at stake – your future, your partner’s happiness, and your dreams of living in New Zealand – it’s not just about submitting forms. It’s about having someone by your side who understands the emotional […]
NZ visas to use NOL instead of ANZSCO
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is preparing for a major update in how occupations are classified for visa applications. Currently, INZ uses the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), but this will soon be replaced by a new system known as the National Occupation List (NOL). What is the National Occupation List (NOL)? […]
Longer Work Visas for partners of New Zealanders
Exciting news for partners of New Zealanders! Starting from 1st October, partners of Kiwis, who’ve been living together for at least 12 months, will be able to get longer Work Visas and Visitor Visas. The duration will be increasing from 2 to 3 years. This change will give you more time to save for a […]
Assessing the benefits and challenges of relocating back to New Zealand as a couple
Many Kiwis come over to the UK in their twenties, on their OE, thinking that they’ll stay for a couple of years, earn some money and return home. But life in the UK draws them in, and then they meet their partner, and everything changes. From this point on, there will always be a decision […]
Significant increase in INZ visa processing fees from October
Immigration New Zealand have announced some significant increases in their visa processing fees, that will come into play from 1st October 2024. The rationale behind the fee increases are that they want to ensure that those using and benefitting from the NZ immigration system contribute more to the cost of running it, including visa processing, […]
Important Update for AEWV applicants with Partners and Children
Immigration New Zealand have just announced a significant change for Accredited Employer Work Visa applicants, applying to work in an ANZSCO level 4 or 5 role. As of June 26, 2024, there are some changes to how AEWV holders can support visa applications for their partners and dependent children. Here’s a breakdown of what you […]
Great News for Partners of Students Studying Green List Occupations in New Zealand
There is some great news for those considering studying in New Zealand with a partner, The New Zealand government has recently expanded eligibility for work visas for partners of students studying qualifications that lead to Green List occupations. What does this mean? If a student is enrolled in a specific level 7 or 8 bachelor’s […]
Why I love Gold Star Pro
Today I’m stepping outside my usual content around New Zealand Immigration News, to bring you an inside look at the benefits of using Gold Star Pro. This isn’t just a random software recommendation; it’s the tool I’ve started using to keep my business running smoothly and efficiently. If you like the sound of what […]
DIY New Zealand Visa Applications: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Dreaming of a life in New Zealand? Navigating the visa process can be tricky, but this article will help you decide if going it alone is right for you. Before you dive in to a DIY visa application, it’s helpful to know the challenges you might face along the way. From confusing forms to tricky […]
Straight to Residence Option for Secondary School Teachers
Exciting news for secondary school teachers! Immigration New Zealand is introducing a Straight to Residence Visa (STR) pathway for eligible secondary teachers. Starting in May, overseas secondary school teachers meeting the criteria can apply for residence directly from overseas if they have a job offer from an accredited employer. Similarly, eligible teachers already working in […]
Enhanced Measures to Strengthen Immigration Law and Enforcement
Immigration New Zealand is introducing new measures to tackle lower-level immigration non-compliance among a small subset of employers who are not adhering to regulations. From 11 April 2024, employers found to be employing anyone who is in breach of their visa conditions, employing individuals unlawfully in New Zealand, or failing to respond to a 10-day […]
Significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa
The New Zealand Government has announced significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, which are in place from today (7th April 2024). Current AEWV holders These changes do not impact AEWV holder’s current visa conditions or length, but may impact how long they can stay in New Zealand. They don’t impact already […]
Changes to some Work to Residence pathways and Green List occupations
The New Zealand Government has announced that some of the planned additions to the Green List and the Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement will not progress. This is a reversal of the announcement made in September 2023. The Work to Residence pathway for bus and truck drivers is also closing to people who are not […]
Additions to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA)
Further updates to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA) have been announced, which will provide a streamlined visa pathway for applicants with overseas qualifications, from more countries. Immigration New Zealand is set to implement Phase 2 updates to the LQEA from 25 March 2024. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming […]
New Zealand Permanent Resident Visa (for partners of Kiwis)
Did you know that if you have been living with your Kiwi partner for 5+ years, outside of NZ, you may be able to get a New Zealand Permanent Resident Visa? Having NZ permanent residence means you can move to New Zealand whenever you wish, for any length of time. Giving you the flexibility to […]
How ready are you and your partner to move to New Zealand?
Are you dreaming of starting a new chapter in New Zealand with your Kiwi partner? Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging journey, especially when it comes to navigating the visa process. Understanding the different types of partner visas available, gathering the necessary documents, and being prepared for potential obstacles are […]
Unlocking Healthcare in New Zealand: A Guide for Newcomers
Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but taking care of your health is a top priority. The Kiwi healthcare system is designed to ensure everyone has access to quality medical services. This article navigates the ins and outs of finding a doctor in New Zealand. 1. Healthcare eligibility First things first—understand your […]
Why I work as a New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser in the UK
This why I do what I do, and how it all began. After building a career in marketing within the travel industry, I was made redundant from my role in 2018. Fortunately, this came at a point in my life where I was ready for change, so I took the time to decide what to […]