New Zealand
New Zealand, this pure land in the Southern Hemisphere, relying on its excellent living environment, friendly immigration policies and abundant development opportunities, has always been one of the world’s most popular immigration destinations.
Why
High-quality living environment: Fresh air, beautiful scenery, known as one of the most livable countries in the world.
High-level education system: Excellent quality of public education, recognized internationally, attracting many families.
Comprehensive social welfare: Covering healthcare, pensions, child welfare, etc., providing comprehensive protection for residents.
Safe and stable social environment: Low crime rate, political stability, strong social inclusiveness.
Main Immigration Pathways
1. Skilled Migration
New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is designed for individuals with professional skills and relevant work experience who can contribute to the country’s workforce. The selection process is based on a points system, taking into account factors such as age, education, work experience, and English proficiency. Applicants who do not immediately meet the points threshold may begin with a temporary work visa—such as those targeting long-term skill shortages or through the Accredited Employer Talent Work Visa, which allows approved employers to sponsor international workers directly. These pathways offer professionals in high-demand sectors, like construction, healthcare, and engineering, a streamlined route to permanent residency as New Zealand regularly updates its skills shortage list to reflect market needs.
2. Entrepreneur Immigration
The Entrepreneur Work Visa is aimed at individuals who wish to start and operate a business in New Zealand, contributing to local economic growth. Applicants must present a viable business plan and demonstrate access to at least NZD 100,000 in investment funds. If the business is successfully operated for two years and meets turnover targets, the applicant and their family can achieve residency status. Recent policy reforms have simplified the application process, making it more accessible for small business owners and supporting innovative ventures, thereby encouraging a broader range of entrepreneurs to pursue this pathway.
3. Investor Immigration
New Zealand offers investor visas for individuals willing to make significant financial commitments to the country. The standard investor category requires a minimum investment of NZD 3 million over four years, whereas the premium investor stream calls for at least NZD 10 million over a three-year period. Policy updates for 2025 place a greater emphasis on investments that promote the green economy and high-tech sectors, aligning the program with New Zealand’s long-term economic and environmental objectives.
4. Study-to-Immigration
International students in New Zealand benefit from a study-to-immigration pathway, where completing recognized qualifications can lead to work visa opportunities and, eventually, skilled migration. These qualifications often provide additional points for immigration applications, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields such as nursing and engineering. Recent policy changes have extended the validity of certain post-graduation work visas to three years, giving graduates more time and flexibility to gain local work experience and improve their integration into New Zealand society.
5. Family Reunion Immigration
Family reunion immigration enables New Zealand citizens and permanent residents to sponsor close relatives, including spouses, children, and parents, for migration. Current policy trends aim to shorten processing times and introduce stricter economic guarantees to ensure successful integration. There is also increased flexibility in visa options, such as the ability to convert temporary visas to permanent residency or work permits, making it easier for families to reunite and settle together in New Zealand.