Immigrate to New Zealand from Ireland

Dreaming of a new life filled with stunning landscapes, friendly communities, and exciting opportunities? New Zealand is calling. Making the leap from Ireland to Aotearoa has never been more achievable. From visa types to costs and citizenship, this guide on how to immigrate to New Zealand from Ireland will walk you through all the details. 

Common Visa Categories to Immigrate to New Zealand from Ireland

New Zealand offers a range of visas to suit different purposes—whether you’re moving for work, family, or to start a business. Below are the most common visa pathways and the eligibility requirements to immigrate to New Zealand:

1. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Ideal for qualified professionals with skills in demand.

• Must be 55 or under
• Have a recognised qualification and relevant work experience
• Be proficient in English
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and meet the threshold of at least 6 skilled resident points
  
  

2. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

For skilled workers with a job offer from an accredited NZ employer.

• Employer must be officially accredited
• Job must meet salary requirement of 80% of median wage (currently around NZD $26 per hour) 
• Must meet skill level thresholds (Jobs are classified according to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). The skill level of your job, as per ANZSCO, influences visa eligibility and duration.)
• English language proficiency 
• May lead to residency over time
  

3. Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa

For those in a genuine, stable relationship with a NZ citizen or resident.

• Must provide proof of relationship
• May allow you to live, work, and study in NZ indefinitely
  

4. Active Investor Plus Visa

The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals aiming to invest in New Zealand’s economy. This visa offers two investment pathways: 

• Growth Category: Requires a minimum investment of NZD $5 million in acceptable investments. Investors need to spend at least 21 days in New Zealand over a three-year period.
• Balanced Category: Requires a minimum investment of NZD $10 million in acceptable investments. Investors must spend at least 105 days in New Zealand over a five-year period.
  

Key Benefits:

• No maximum age limit and no English language requirement.
• Ability to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
  Opportunity to include your partner and dependent children (aged 24 and under) in your application.
• Pathway to permanent residency after maintaining the investment for the required period.

How to Immigrate to New Zealand: The Visa Application Process

1. Determine Your Eligibility
   
   • Use tools like the NZ Immigration Points Caculator
   • Check if your occupation is on the skills shortage list
     
2. Choose the Right Visa Type
   
   • Match your personal circumstances and goals to the most appropriate visa category
     
3. Prepare Your Documentation
   
   • Include passport, qualifications, work experience proof, medical exams, police clearance, and English proficiency test results
     
4. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
   
   • Required for the Skilled Migrant and Investor visas, you can do it online through the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website.
     
5. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
   
   • If your EOI is selected, you’ll be invited to submit a full application
     
6. Submit Visa Application
   
   • Include supporting documents, pay the fees, and wait for processing
     
7. Await Decision
   
   • This can take weeks to months, depending on the visa type and current processing times
     
     

An immigration advisor can help you navigate complex requirements and avoid common pitfalls.

Pathways to New Zealand Citizenship

After you’ve settled in, you might decide to make your Kiwi life permanent. Here’s how you can progress from visa holder to citizen:

1. Permanent Residency

Some visas, such as the Skilled Migrant Category and AEWV, can lead to permanent residency after living in New Zealand as a resident for at least 5 years.

• Must demonstrate commitment to NZ (e.g. spending majority of time in-country)
• Maintain good character and follow visa conditions
  

2. Apply for New Zealand Citizenship

Eligibility criteria include:

• Holding permanent residency for at least 5 years
• Spending enough time physically in NZ each year
• English language proficiency
• Understanding NZ’s responsibilities and privileges of citizenship
  

As a New Zealand citizen, you can:

• Hold a NZ passport
• Vote in elections
• Access public services and travel freely within the Commonwealth
  

Take the First Step in Your Kiwi Journey with Immagine Immigration

Ready to make a big leap into the Kiwi life? From skilled visas to business investments and family connections, there’s a clear path for everyone. While the process may seem daunting, you don’t have to go through it all alone. 

At Immagine Immigration, we’re expert advisors who simplify the process, tailor your plan, and give you the best chance at success. With more than 35 years of expertise and over 30,000 success stories, we’ve proudly helped thousands of people turn their dream of starting a new life in Australia or New Zealand into reality. 

Explore our other guides:

• Immigrate to New Zealand from USA
• Immigrate to New Zealand from the UK