Can I get a New Zealand work visa without a job?

In most cases, you cannot apply for a New Zealand work visa without a job offer, but there are a few exceptions.

1. Work Visas That Require a Job Offer

✔ Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – The most common work visa; you need a job offer from a NZ-accredited employer.

✔ Essential Skills Work Visa (replaced by AEWV) – Previously required a job offer but has been phased out.

✔ Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa – A pathway to residency but usually requires a job offer to meet eligibility points.

2. Work Visas That Do Not Require a Job Offer

✅ Working Holiday Visa – Available for specific countries (India is not eligible), allows temporary work without a job offer.

✅ Global Impact Visa (GIV) – For entrepreneurs/startups under the Edmund Hillary Fellowship.

✅ Talent (Accredited Employer) Resident Visa – If you’ve worked in NZ for 2+ years under an accredited employer.

✅ Post-Study Work Visa – If you studied in NZ, you can work for 1-3 years without needing a job offer.

Alternative Option: Investor & Business Visas

If you invest in or start a business, you may qualify for:

???? Entrepreneur Work Visa – Requires a business plan and investment of at least NZD 100,000.

???? Investor Visa – Requires a NZD 3-10 million investment for residency.