Are you intending to visit New Zealand for a particular event or purpose? If so, understanding the ins and outs of the Specific Purpose Work Visa is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful stay. In this blog post, we will explore the different scenarios under which you may need a Specific Purpose Work Visa and the duration of stay allowed for each purpose. So, let’s dive in and learn more!
One of the key factors to consider when applying for a Specific Purpose Work Visa is the duration of your stay, which varies depending on the specific purpose or event. For instance, if you are successful in obtaining a Recovery Visa, you can stay for up to 6 months to complete your purpose or event.
On the other hand, if you are a senior or specialist business person on a short-term secondment, you can stay for up to 12 months.
However, if you are a business person being transferred from one part of a multinational company to another in New Zealand, you can stay for up to 3 years.
It’s important to note that you may be able to apply for another Specific Purpose Work Visa if it is necessary to complete your specific purpose or event. For example, if you are an investor who has applied for residence and wants to investigate investment opportunities, you can stay for 12 months and may be eligible for another Specific Purpose Work Visa.
Additionally, there are specific provisions for referees, judges, dance and music examiners, installers or servicers of specialised machinery or equipment, sports players and professional sports coaches, and people working in the entertainment industry. Each category has its own duration of stay, ranging from a few months to several years, depending on the nature of the purpose or event.
Things to note for Specific Purpose Work Visa
- A New Zealand firm has invited you or given you a job offer.
- Work for a particular employer for the duration necessary to accomplish your specific purpose or event.
- Depending on how long you need to stay in New Zealand to do your specific purpose or event, you can stay there for an unlimited amount of time.
- Your partner and any dependent children may apply for different visas based on their relationship to you, but they cannot be listed on your visa application.
- Your partner can apply for a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa if you are applying for the Recovery Visa, and if your children are of school age, they can apply for Student Visas New Zealand. Discover family visa options.
- You must submit a fully filled-out Recovery Visa – Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1377) with your application if you’re applying for a recovery visa. You must receive this from your employer.
- Instead, you should apply for an Entertainers Work Visa if you are an employee of the entertainment sector visiting New Zealand for a specific event or purpose.
- If you are a Chinese tour guide, you should instead apply for a China Special Work Visa.
Also read: How to Apply for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and What are the Requirements
How long a Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa is valid for
| Specific Purpose Or Event | How Long You Can Stay |
|---|---|
| Senior or skilled business professionals on temporary assignments | 12 months |
| Transferring employees from one division of a multinational corporation to another in New Zealand | 3 years |
| New Zealand business visitors staying longer than 3 months for business purposes | 12 months |
| Investors looking to research investment options after submitting an application for residence | 12 months |
| People in New Zealand who judge performances, displays, or exhibitions include sports referees | Not usually longer than six months for the duration of your engagement |
| Examiners of dance and music | For the duration required to perform the tests, which is often no longer than six months |
| Installers and services for specific machines or equipment | 3 months |
| Professional coaches and athletes | You may stay for up to three years if you will be coaching at the national or regional level; otherwise, you may only stay for one year. |
| Philippines nurses looking to register as professionals | Upto 3 months |
| Other | For the duration necessary to carry out your specific purpose or event, which is typically no longer than 6 months |
If you are a critical worker with a current Critical Purpose Visitor Visa, you may be eligible to apply for a Specific Purpose Work Visa to work in your current job for up to 3 years, including the time spent on your Critical Purpose Visitor Visa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the specific purpose or event for which you require a Specific Purpose Work Visa and the duration of stay allowed is crucial to ensure a successful stay in New Zealand. If you need assistance with your visa application or have any questions, it’s recommended to seek professional advice from Immigration Chambers, a leading immigration law firm with extensive experience in New Zealand immigration matters.
Ready to make your New Zealand visa journey a smooth and seamless one? Contact Immigration Chambers today for expert guidance and personalized solutions to meet your specific immigration needs.