Specific Purpose Work Visa
For people coming to New Zealand for a specific, time-limited purpose such as a secondment or specialist project.
The Specific Purpose Work Visa is a New Zealand work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$750 including levy) and processing time (~4-10 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Specific Purpose Work Visa is for
For people coming to New Zealand for a specific, time-limited purpose such as a secondment or specialist project.
No direct path; some holders move to skilled work or residence categories.
Specific Purpose Work Visa - eligibility criteria
- Have a genuine specific purpose, project or event in New Zealand
- Show relevant skills, qualifications or seniority
- Provide supporting documents from the NZ organisation
- Demonstrate the temporary nature of the role
- Meet health and character requirements
Specific Purpose Work Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Specific Purpose Work Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$750 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~4-10 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Length of the specific purpose, often up to 3 years |
| Work rights | Work limited to the specified purpose or project |
| Study rights | Study limited to up to 3 months in any 12 months |
| Government fee | ~NZ$750 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-10 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct path; some holders move to skilled work or residence categories. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct path; some holders move to skilled work or residence categories.
Many applicants also compare AEWV · Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Working Holiday · Working Holiday Visa, SMC · Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Specific Purpose Work Visa pitfalls we fix
Specific Purpose Work Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Specific Purpose Work Visa cost?
The Specific Purpose Work Visa government fee is ~NZ$750 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Specific Purpose Work Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-10 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Specific Purpose Work Visa lead to permanent residence?
No direct path; some holders move to skilled work or residence categories.
Can I work on the Specific Purpose Work Visa?
Work rights: Work limited to the specified purpose or project.
Who can apply for the Specific Purpose Work Visa?
For people coming to New Zealand for a specific, time-limited purpose such as a secondment or specialist project.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority