Find the right visa and job to work in Auckland

Ready to make the move to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland to work and live? Here’s how to find and apply for the right visas and jobs.

1. Find the right job and secure a job offer

Unless you are applying for a family or partner visa, you will need a job offer from a New Zealand employer to support your visa application. See how and where to look for jobs, connect with recruiters, plus tips on creating an impressive application for Auckland employers. 

Start your search online 

Firstly, explore Auckland’s most popular job search sites. 

SEEK is New Zealand’s main employment marketplace, with almost all employers and recruiters listing job vacancies on the site. You can set up a tailored search covering job titles, industry, location and salary range. It’s also a good place to get advice on securing a job in Auckland, including how to prepare your job application and have a successful interview. 

Trade Me Jobs is one of the biggest job search hubs in New Zealand, across all industries. Set up a personal profile detailing your skills and experience to make it easy for Auckland employers and recruiters to find you in a candidate search. Like SEEK, you can also access a free resource library of career and job search advice and tools, including a salary guide and curriculum vitae (CV or resume) templates. 

LinkedIn allows you to create and expand your professional networks. Recruiters and employers will often search for candidates with key skills, so ensure your profile showcases your relevant experience and expertise. Stay up to date with industry news and trends, find job opportunities and connect with employers — many are happy to meet in person if you reach out directly. 

Connect with tech recruiters 

Registering with Auckland recruitment agencies can help you find the right job, faster. They can connect you with the most suitable employers and jobs (including some unadvertised roles), give guidance on the job market and realistic salary expectations, and provide expert advice on how to improve your chances of securing a job.  

Adapt your resume or CV for New Zealand employers  

Creating a curriculum vitae (CV or resume) that will impress Auckland employers may mean making some changes, such as adjusting the length, layout and formality to suit the New Zealand style, and creating a tailored cover letter for each job. Read our guide to creating a great CV, with top tips, examples and resources to get you ready. 

2. Find the right visa

Before submitting an application, make sure you find the right visa for your situation, from temporary work visas through to permanent residency visas.  

Securing a work visa depends on your skills, qualifications, age, and other circumstances, including whether you have a job offer from an accredited employer. If you meet the criteria for an in-demand role on the Immigration New Zealand Green List, you may be able to get residence immediately, or after two years of working here.  

Common work visas 

• Skilled Migrant: This visa is for people who have skills that will contribute to New Zealand's economic growth. You will need to submit an Expression of Interest before applying. 

• Accredited Employer: You can apply for this temporary visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer, and the skills and qualifications necessary for the job.  

• Straight to Residence: You can apply for this visa if you meet all the visa requirements, your role is listed as Tier 1 on the Immigration New Zealand Green List, and you work for an accredited employer, or you have a job offer from one. 

Other visas 

There are numerous other work visas that may fit your circumstances, including visas that can provide a pathway to residency — check your eligibility first, or consider talking to a licenced immigration advisor before applying. If you plan to move to Auckland with family or a partner, they may be able to study, work, and live in New Zealand for the same duration as your work or business visa, and may also be eligible to seek residency. 

Find out more about all visas. 

More about living and working in Auckland 

Looking for more information? Find everything you need to know on our full site.