New Zealand is popular for its welcoming atmosphere, exceptional quality, and top-notch healthcare system. The country also has a growing need for care workers, especially in the elderly care and disability support sectors. The New Zealand government announced a pathway to residency for qualified care professionals through the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa in order to address the shortage in this essential workforce.
This visa continues to be a fantastic option in 2025 for remote care workers who want to avoid working in New Zealand yet eventually become residents. This guide will explain all you need to know about the Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa, including requirements, necessary reports, how to prepare an application step-by-step, and much more.
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When is the Application Deadline:
🗓 Open now – No fixed deadline. Applications are accepted any time once eligibility requirements are met.
Tell Me About The Visa Program:
The New Zealand Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa 2025 is designed for international care professionals who have worked full-time in New Zealand’s care sector for at least 24 months. It offers a direct pathway to residency, and eventually permanent residence, allowing you to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Eligible roles include full-time care positions such as:
- Aged or Disabled Carer
- Nursing Support Worker
- Residential Care Officer
- Personal Care Assistant
- Disability Services Officer
- Māori Health Assistant (Kaiawhina Hauora)
- Diversional Therapist
- Therapy Aide
- Child or Youth Residential Care Assistant
Type:
🛂 Work to Residence Visa Program (with pathway to Permanent Residency)
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 55 years or younger
- Have a full-time job with an accredited employer
- Have worked in an eligible care job for at least 24 months in New Zealand
- Be paid at least NZD $28.25/hour during the period of work
- Have a valid work visa or Critical Purpose Visitor Visa (with work rights) during that time
- Be in good health and character
- Speak and understand English
- May include partner and dependent children under 25 years old
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are assessed based on:
- Verified employment history and wage compliance
- Employer’s accreditation status
- Medical and police checks
- Evidence of English proficiency
- Completeness and accuracy of submitted documents
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 All countries – Open to international applicants currently working in New Zealand or with a valid offer.
Where will the Visa be Issued?
📍 The visa allows residency and long-term stay in New Zealand
How Many Visas are Issued?
🔢 Unlimited – All applicants who meet the criteria are eligible to apply.
What is the Benefit of the Visa?
✅ Live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely
✅ Include your spouse/partner and dependent children (under 25)
✅ Apply for a Permanent Resident Visa after 2 years
✅ Access public healthcare and education
✅ Pathway to New Zealand citizenship after 5 years of residency
How Long Will the Visa Last?
📆 Indefinitely – The resident visa allows permanent stay, and travel conditions are valid for 2 years. After that, you can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.
How to Apply:
- Secure a full-time care job with an accredited employer
- Work in New Zealand for 24 months (within a 30-month window)
- Gather and upload all required documents:
- Employment agreements, payslips, IRD summary
- Police certificate, medical certificate, English proficiency proof
- Family documentation (if applicable)
- Submit your application online
- Pay the application fee: NZD $6,450
Visit the Visa Webpage for Details:
🔗 Immigration New Zealand – Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa
