New Zealand has launched a fresh opportunity for tourists to work legally for a maximum of three months under certain visitor visa categories.

This modification provides professionals, entertainers, journalists, and others an opportunity to work temporarily as they enjoy their time in the country.

The new system aims to streamline the visa process for individuals whose employment advantages the country without requiring a long-term work visa.

This creates opportunities for various skilled professionals to acquire work experience during their brief stay in the country.

WHO IS ALLOWED TO WORK ON A VISITOR VISA IN New Zealand?

Work options for the visitor visa in this nation are accessible for individuals in particular job categories. These are intended for experts, creatives, and specialists whose contributions are regarded as advantageous to the nation for a limited duration.

This policy pertains to a broad spectrum of employees, including business professionals and musicians, enabling them to reside and work for a duration of up to three months.

CATEGORIES ELIGIBLE FOR THE WORK PERMIT IN NEW ZEALAND

A) Business experts and venture creators

Reports indicate that business professionals visiting New Zealand in 2025 might be eligible for a Business Visitor Visa, permitting them to undertake activities like establishing a business, embarking on sales trips, or participating in investment negotiations. Business professionals may participate in formal trade missions or negotiate business agreements with representatives from different nations.

For example, as mentioned, a startup founder present at an investment meeting does not have to seek a long-term work visa to participate in business activities in the country.

Application process:

Applicants need to provide proof of their business travel intent when seeking a Business Visitor Visa.

B) Performers, creatives, and music artists

This amazing country serves as a center for the arts, and specific visitor visas permit artists, musicians, and entertainers to participate in festivals, concerts, or various events. This encompasses people who provide direct assistance to performances, like sound engineers or tour managers.

For instance, artists traveling with a global band or a DJ playing at an officially sanctioned festival can operate under a tourist visa.

How to submit an application:

The individual organizing the event or promoting it must be included on New Zealand Immigration’s approved list. Candidates are required to submit their applications under the Short-Term Entertainment Act Visitor Visa.

C) Reporters and media experts

Journalists and media professionals can apply for a Visiting Media Visitor Visa to operate in New Zealand for as long as one month. This pertains to persons involved in reporting events, news, or various media initiatives that necessitate short-term employment in the country.

For example, a reporter from a global news outlet focusing on the nation’s environmental policies can legally operate without a complete work visa.

How to submit an application:

Applicants need to provide evidence of assignment from an accredited media agency when applying for a Visiting Media Visitor Visa.

D) Scholars and Researchers

Scholars and researchers invited by institutions in New Zealand may engage in short-term academic activities using a visitor visa. This pertains to university educators, researchers, or academic advisors involved in projects lasting under three months.

For instance, a professor invited to give a guest lecture at a university in New Zealand can operate under a visitor visa without requiring a complete work visa.

How to submit an application:

Applicants are required to submit an official invitation letter from the institution in this country and apply for the Academic Visitor Visa.

E) Athletes and event personnel

Sports professionals, such as athletes, coaches, and event personnel, may work for a duration of up to three months on the Sports Event Visitor Visa. This visa applies to individuals involved in sports competitions or engaged in the event’s organization.

For example, a cricket official participating in an international tournament in New Zealand is able to work with this visa without needing a complete work visa.

How to submit an application:

Applicants are required to submit an official invitation from the event organizers and apply for the Sports Event Visitor Visa.

F) Technicians and Machinery’s Installers

Specialized technicians needed to install or service imported machinery can utilize the Specific Purpose Work Visa. This visa is intended for international specialists required for temporary installation or maintenance tasks in New Zealand.

For instance, a technician setting up advanced equipment for a factory in Auckland is allowed to work for as long as three months with this visa.

How to Submit:

Applicants need to submit evidence of the purchase agreement that necessitates installation by a foreign technician.

New Zealand’s launch of visitor visas permitting short-term work represents progress in enhancing the country’s accessibility for skilled professionals. Candidates looking to work in New Zealand on these visas must confirm that they fulfill the requirements and adhere to the application procedures mentioned earlier.