1st Contact New Zealand Visas

Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Policy

This visa is for those applicants who have qualifications and experience in an occupation that appears on the LTSSList for New Zealand. It allows employers to offer skilled overseas workers employment. The policy provides for a temporary multiple-entry 30 month work visa/permit which can lead to permanent residency.

To be eligible under this policy you must:

• Be aged 53 years or under
• Be in good health and of good character
• Have a genuine offer of employment in New Zealand in an occupation that is included on the LTSSL that meets the requirements of the country’s employment laws
• Be employed full time (minimum of 30 hours per week) in New Zealand for a minimum period of 24 months
• Hold full or provisional registration in New Zealand if this is a requirement for you to practise in your occupation in New Zealand
• Be suitably qualified through training and/or relevant experience, and meet requirements set out on the LTSSL for that occupation

After working in New Zealand in an occupation on the LTSSL for 24 months you will be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This is provided you meet all the requirements and are under 55 years of age when the application is lodged.

To be eligible for permanent residency you must:

• Be aged 55 years or younger
• Be of good health and character
• Have been employed in New Zealand in an occupation that appears on the LTSSL for at least 24 months and provide evidence of this
• Currently be employed in the same occupation or another occupation that appears on the LTSSL and have a minimum base salary of NZ$45,000
• Hold full or provisional registration in New Zealand if this is a requirement for you to practise in your occupation
• Have an ongoing (no less than 12 months, with the option to extend) or indefinite employment contract

Permanent residence in New Zealand will only be granted if you satisfy all visa requirements as outlined by New Zealand Immigration.