How Do I Get a Job Sponsorship Visa in New Zealand?

To secure a good job sponsorship visa package in New Zealand, follow these steps:

1. Identify Your Skills and Check Visa Eligibility

• Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): New Zealand’s most common visa for skilled workers is the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. Check if your skills, qualifications, and work experience match the roles listed in the Essential Skills in Demand (ESID) list.

• Shortage Lists: If your profession is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL) or Regional Skill Shortage List, it increases your chances of finding an employer willing to sponsor you.

2. Tailor Your CV to New Zealand Standards

• Adapt your CV to reflect New Zealand hiring practices, which tend to emphasize clear and concise formats. Highlight skills and experience relevant to the job market.

• Include your qualifications, skills, and work experience that align with New Zealand's skill shortages.

3. Use Job Portals to Apply for Jobs

• Seek (https://www.seek.co.nz/): One of the largest job portals in New Zealand.

• Trade Me Jobs (https://www.trademe.co.nz/jobs): A popular job site with listings across multiple industries.

• Workhere New Zealand (https://www.workhere.co.nz/): Specializes in roles for people looking to immigrate.

• LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile and connect with recruiters and employers in New Zealand.

4. Target Employers Open to Sponsorship

• Look for companies that have sponsored workers in the past. Industries with frequent sponsorship include IT, healthcare, engineering, construction, and hospitality.

• Apply to companies with Accredited Employer status. These companies are approved by Immigration New Zealand to sponsor skilled workers for Essential Skills Work Visas.

5. Contact Recruitment Agencies

• Engage with recruitment agencies that specialize in hiring foreign workers in New Zealand. Agencies like Hays, Robert Walters, and Absolute IT have experience in placing overseas candidates in roles that offer visa sponsorship.

6. Consider Temporary Work Visas

• Apply for an Essential Skills Work Visa if you receive a job offer that matches the ESID list. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand and can be a stepping stone toward permanent residency.

• Explore Post-Study Work Visa options if you have recently studied in New Zealand, which can lead to job sponsorship from an employer.

7. Network and Build Connections

• Attend Job Fairs and Industry Events: Networking can help you meet employers and recruiters directly. Participating in virtual job fairs and industry-specific events can expose you to companies that sponsor visas.

• Leverage Online Platforms: LinkedIn is an excellent platform for connecting with New Zealand-based professionals in your industry. Joining relevant groups and participating in discussions can lead to job leads.

8. Prepare for Interviews and Negotiate the Package

• When interviewing, be clear about your visa requirements and willingness to relocate. Employers may provide relocation assistance as part of the job package.

• Negotiate salary and benefits based on the market standards in New Zealand for your industry. Many employers also offer accommodation assistance or other relocation perks as part of the package.

9. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

• If you receive a job offer, your employer will need to provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is essential for applying for a Work Visa.

• Ensure your employer is aware of the visa application process, as they will need to meet certain requirements set by Immigration New Zealand.

10. Apply for the Work Visa

• Once you have a job offer and a CoS, apply for the Essential Skills Work Visa or Skilled Migrant Category Visa. Ensure you meet the English language proficiency and health/character requirements.

By targeting in-demand industries, using tailored job search strategies, and networking effectively, you can secure a good job sponsorship visa package in New Zealand.