In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 15 of the most in-demand skilled jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship opportunities. Whether you’re a nurse, engineer, teacher, or IT specialist, this article provides a detailed look at job descriptions, eligibility requirements, visa pathways, and the application process.

Understanding New Zealand’s Skilled Migrant Landscape

What is a Skilled Job in New Zealand?

A skilled job in New Zealand is defined by specific criteria laid out by Immigration New Zealand (INZ). These include jobs that require specialist training, qualifications, and experience. INZ maintains a “Green List” of occupations that are in critical demand, ranging from healthcare professionals to engineers.

Skill Shortages and Labour Market Needs

The government updates its skills shortage lists regularly to reflect current labour market demands. These lists include:

• Green List Occupations
• Regional Skills Shortage List
• Construction and Infrastructure Skill Shortage List

Demand is particularly high in sectors like healthcare, IT, construction, and engineering.

Role of Immigration New Zealand (INZ)

INZ oversees visa applications and maintains employer accreditation programs to streamline the hiring of overseas talent. It also ensures that migrant workers are treated fairly and that employers meet specific standards of conduct.

Visa Sponsorship Basics

What is Visa Sponsorship?

Visa sponsorship occurs when a New Zealand employer supports your visa application, typically through a formal job offer and compliance with Immigration New Zealand (INZ) standards. The sponsor must be an accredited employer.

How Sponsorship Works

Once an employer provides a job offer, they initiate a process that includes:

• Verifying the position is on the skill shortage list
• Proving that no local talent is available
• Assisting with the visa application

Key Visa Types with Sponsorship

1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – The most common visa for sponsored skilled workers.

2. Green List Straight to Residence Visa – For workers in high-demand roles.

3. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa – Points-based system for permanent residency.

Top 15 Skilled Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

1. Registered Nurses

Job Description: Provide medical care, administer medications, and support patient recovery.

Salary: NZD 60,000 – 85,000 annually

Eligibility: Nursing degree, registration with the Nursing Council of NZ, IELTS/OET

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Green List Residence Visa

Regions in Demand: Nationwide, predominantly the rural and aged care sectors

Top Employers: District Health Boards (DHBs), Bupa, Ryman Healthcare

2. Civil Engineers

Job Description: Design, plan, and oversee construction projects like roads, bridges, and dams.

Salary: NZD 75,000 – 120,000

Eligibility: Engineering degree, NZQA recognition, Chartered status preferred

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Straight to Residence

Top Regions: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch

Employers: Beca, WSP, Aurecon

3. Software Developers

Job Description: Develop applications, maintain code, and implement new software solutions.

Salary: NZD 80,000 – 140,000

Eligibility: Bachelor’s in Computer Science or equivalent, relevant experience

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Skilled Migrant Visa

In-Demand Languages: Java, Python, C#, React

Employers: Xero, Datacom, Orion Health

4. Electricians

Job Description: Install and maintain electrical systems in residential and commercial buildings.

Salary: NZD 60,000 – 90,000

Eligibility: Recognised trade qualification, registration with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB)

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Skilled Migrant

Top Employers: Downer Group, Ventia, private contractors

5. Construction Project Managers

Job Description: Oversee construction projects, manage timelines, budgets, and personnel.

Salary: NZD 90,000 – 130,000

Eligibility: A construction or engineering degree is required. PMP certification is beneficial.

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Skilled Migrant

6. Mechanical Engineers

Job Description: Design and test mechanical systems and devices.

Salary: NZD 70,000 – 110,000

Eligibility: Mechanical engineering degree, NZQA recognition

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Green List Pathway

7. Aged Care and Disability Support Workers

Job Description: Assist elderly and disabled individuals with daily tasks and healthcare.

Salary: NZD 50,000 – 65,000

Eligibility: Aged care certification, relevant experience, and English proficiency

Visa Pathway: AEWV

Top Employers: Oceania, Radius Care

8. Secondary School Teachers (STEM & Languages)

Job Description: Teach subjects like math, science, and foreign languages in secondary schools.

Salary: NZD 55,000 – 90,000

Eligibility: Teaching qualification, registration with the Teaching Council NZ

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Skilled Migrant

9. ICT Security Specialists

Job Description: Protect computer systems from cyber threats.

Salary: NZD 90,000 – 140,000

Eligibility: Degree in Information Security or equivalent, certifications (CISSP, CISM)

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Green List

10. Chefs (Qualified and Experienced)

Job Description: Prepare meals, manage kitchen staff, and develop menus.

Salary: NZD 55,000 – 75,000

Eligibility: Culinary qualification, 3+ years’ experience

Visa Pathway: AEWV

11. Plumbers

Job Description: Install water, drainage, and gas systems.

Salary: NZD 60,000 – 85,000

Eligibility: Trade certification, registration with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board

Visa Pathway: AEWV

12. Aircraft Maintenance Engineers

Job Description: Maintain and repair aircraft systems and parts.

Salary: NZD 70,000 – 100,000

Eligibility: Aeronautical engineering diploma, licensing under NZCAA

Visa Pathway: AEWV

13. Surveyors

Job Description: Measure land for construction and development projects.

Salary: NZD 70,000 – 100,000

Eligibility: Surveying degree, NZQA recognition

Visa Pathway: AEWV

14. Veterinarians

Job Description: Diagnose and treat animal illnesses.

Salary: NZD 85,000 – 120,000

Eligibility: Veterinary degree, registration with the Vet Council NZ

Visa Pathway: AEWV, Straight to Residence

15. Automotive Technicians (Diesel Mechanics, Panel Beaters)

Job Description: Repair and maintain vehicles.

Salary: NZD 55,000 – 80,000

Eligibility: Trade qualification, work experience

Visa Pathway: AEWV

Accredited Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship

How to Identify Accredited Employers

Accredited employers are listed on the official Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website. They meet specific standards for worker treatment, job quality, and legal compliance.

Examples of Accredited Employers

• Fonterra
• Fisher & Paykel
• NZ District Health Boards
• Downer Group
• Datacom

How to Apply for Skilled Jobs with Sponsorship

Step-by-Step Process

1. Search for a Job – Use job portals like Seek.co.nz and TradeMe.

2. Check Visa Eligibility – Confirm the job is on the Green List or skills shortage list.

3. Get a Job Offer – Apply and pass interviews.

4. Employer Sponsorship – The employer initiates the visa sponsorship process.

5. Apply for AEWV – Submit documentation to INZ.

Required Documents

• CV and cover letter
• Academic and trade qualifications
• Proof of work experience
• English test results (IELTS, TOEFL)
• Police clearance and medical check

Where to Find Sponsored Job Opportunities

Online Job Boards

• Seek.co.nz
• TradeMe Jobs
• Careers.govt.nz
• WorkingIn-NewZealand.com

Recruitment Agencies

• Hays Recruitment
• Madison Recruitment
• Adecco New Zealand

Skills and Qualification Recognition

NZQA Recognition

• Foreign qualifications must be assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
• English Language Proficiency

Most visa pathways require English test scores:

• IELTS: 6.5+ (academic or general)
• TOEFL: 79+ (internet-based)

Licensing and Registration

• Healthcare: Nursing Council, Medical Council
• Trades: EWRB, PGDB
• Teaching: Teaching Council NZ

Relocation and Settlement Support

Employer Support

Some employers offer relocation packages:

Airfare

• Temporary accommodation
• Assistance with paperwork

Cost of Living Overview

• Auckland: Highest living cost
• Christchurch & Wellington: More affordable
• Rural areas: Cheaper housing

Immigrant Services

• Citizens Advice Bureau
• Settlement Support NZ
• Multicultural councils

Future Outlook and In-Demand Sectors

Growth Sectors

• Healthcare: Ageing population driving demand
• IT: Digital transformation
• Construction: Infrastructure projects post-COVID
• Renewable Energy: Sustainability initiatives

Long-Term Shortages

• Continued shortage expected in nursing, engineering, and IT until 2030

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a job in NZ without experience?

• It’s difficult. Most sponsored roles require 2-5 years of experience.

How long does visa sponsorship take?

• Typically 4-8 weeks, depending on processing volume.

Can I bring my family?

• Yes, AEWV holders can bring partners and dependent children.

What if my job isn’t on the Green List?

• You can still apply under the AEWV or Skilled Migrant pathways, but please note that this may take longer.

Are unskilled jobs available with sponsorship?

• They are limited. Focus is on skilled roles listed by INZ.

Conclusion

New Zealand remains a promising destination for skilled foreign workers, thanks to its employer-sponsored visa schemes and ongoing labour shortages. From healthcare and education to engineering and IT, a wide range of opportunities awaits. By targeting jobs on the Green List and applying through accredited employers, you increase your chances of securing both employment and a pathway to permanent residency.

Start your journey today and be part of New Zealand’s dynamic workforce.