Specific Purpose Work Visa
When you need expertise for a defined project
Sometimes you need to bring in a specialist from overseas, temporarily – whether it’s installing equipment, leading a project, or providing expertise that isn’t available in New Zealand. We can help you determine the right visa to ensure their time here is INZ compliant.
It allows overseas workers to come here for a limited time to complete a defined role, without the need for a full Accredited Employer Work Visa process.
Working closely with Immigration New Zealand for over 25 years we are New Zealand’s market leaders and here to support your team.
When is this visa used?
Employers use the Specific Purpose Work Visa when they need:
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Highly skilled staff for a fixed project or contract.
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Overseas experts for equipment installation or training.
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Professionals seconded to New Zealand by a parent company.
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Sports players, coaches, judges or referees for competitions or seasons.
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Entertainers, performing artists, film and production crew.
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Other specialists whose role has a clearly defined purpose and end date.
Our services cover the full process
We manage every aspect of the process so you can rest easy and look forward to the arrival of your specialist workers.
1. Assessing whether the Specific Purpose Work Visa is the right option.
2. Preparing and lodging the visa application.
3. Handling all INZ communication on your behalf.
4. Providing relocation and settlement support if required.
Your visa experts
Working In has been helping New Zealand employers with visas and recruitment for over 25 years. Our in-house licensed immigration advisers:
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Understand the Specific Purpose Work Visa requirements inside out.
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Ensure applications are complete, accurate and compliant.
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Minimise delays and reduce the risk of costly declines.
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Support your business every step of the way.
What you need to know
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Duration – Visas can be granted for the time needed to complete the role (up to 3 years in some cases).
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Evidence required – You’ll need to show why the person is needed and provide supporting documentation.
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Family – Partners and dependants cannot usually be included on this visa.
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Compliance – Applications must demonstrate the genuine and temporary nature of the role.
Need someone for a specific project?
Let us take care of the visa process so you can stay focused on your business. Speak directly with a licensed adviser about your situation and get clear advice on the best way forward.
Frequently asked questions
How long does this visa last?
Can I include my worker’s family?
What if I’m not sure if this visa applies?
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