Planning to move to New Zealand but confused about the visa process? This comprehensive guide will introduce you to some lesser-known visa pathways to New Zealand.

While most people are aware of the standard student, work, or family visa options, here are some alternative routes to consider.

1. Silver Fern Job Search Visa

The Silver Fern Job Search Visa offers highly skilled young people, who do not have a job offer, an opportunity to enter New Zealand to search for employment.

This visa is not as popular as the Skilled Migrant Category Visa, making it an excellent alternative.

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Requirements:

• Age: 20 to 35 years
• Must meet health, character and English language requirements
• Should have qualifications, skills or experience that New Zealand needs

Find more about this visa on the Immigration New Zealand website.

2. Entrepreneur Work Visa

The Entrepreneur Work Visa is an option if you’re interested in establishing a business in New Zealand.

After successfully running your business for two years (or six months in some cases), you can apply for an Entrepreneur Resident Visa.

Requirements:

• A detailed business plan
• Minimum capital investment of NZD 100,000 (exceptions apply)
• 120 points or more on the points scale
• Clear business track record

Learn more on the official visa page.

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3. Parent Retirement Visa

If you have an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident, the Parent Retirement Visa lets you live, work and study in New Zealand permanently.

Requirements:

• An adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident
• NZD 1 million to invest for 4 years, and another NZD 500,000 to live on
• An annual income of NZD 60,000 during the investment period

More information can be found here.

4. Pacific Access Category Resident Visa

If you’re from Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu, or Tonga, the Pacific Access Category Resident Visa can be a route to New Zealand residency.

Requirements:

• Between 18 and 45 years old
• Citizen of either Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu or Tonga
• Job offer in New Zealand

Further details are available on the Immigration New Zealand website.

5. Global Impact Visa

In partnership with the Edmund Hillary Fellowship, the Global Impact Visa (GIVs) provides innovative individuals who can contribute to New Zealand’s developing innovation ecosystem with a pathway to residence.

Requirements:

• Acceptance into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship
• Demonstrate that you have the abilities and connections to contribute to New Zealand’s innovation scene

Read more about GIVs here.

Further Reading: 🇳🇿 A Comprehensive Guide to New Zealand Work Permit Types in 2023

Conclusion

While the traditional pathways are still valid, these lesser-known alternatives may open doors to new opportunities for immigration to New Zealand.

Each visa category has its eligibility criteria, so ensure to conduct in-depth research to understand which pathway suits your circumstances best.