How to get a job in New Zealand from India: (6 easy steps)

Expat life
16 Oct 2024
11 mins read
Written by pranit

For Indian professionals seeking international opportunities, New Zealand presents a promising career destination. With its strong economy and welcoming culture, securing a job in New Zealand can be a rewarding experience. This guide will provide you with essential information on how to get a job in New Zealand from India, preparing you for a successful career transition. 

Quick read section

How to get a job in New Zealand from India?

  1. Research the New Zealand job market.
  2. Craft a compelling resume and cover letter. 
  3. Search and apply for suitable New Zealand job opportunities.
  4. Prepare and appear for interviews. 
  5. Secure a New Zealand offer letter.
  6. Checklist before you start work.

Do you know? 

  • New Zealand’s GDP per capita stood at USD 41,725 in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 41,892 by the end of 2024. [1]
  • New Zealand’s employment rate remained at 68.4% in the first half of 2024. [2]
  • New Zealand ranks among the top 10 countries in the OECD Better Life Index for life satisfaction, with an average score of 7.9 out of 10. [3]

How to get a job in New Zealand from India?

Step 1: Research the New Zealand job market

Understand New Zealand’s job market before you start your job search. By researching the current skills shortage, you can identify the in-demand skills in the country to determine which professionals are the most sought-after. 

 

You can use industry-specific job boards to explore specialised job openings. Networking with individuals already working in New Zealand will also help gain firsthand knowledge about job opportunities and industry trends. 

Step 2: Craft a compelling resume and cover letter 

A well-structured and impactful CV is essential for making a positive impression on potential employers. Aim for an ATS-friendly resumeThe ATS resume template optimises the readability of your CV by focusing on your core competencies and achievements, increasing your chances of securing an interview. 

 

Keep the CV concise while emphasising the skills you have acquired in previous roles that can be applied to the new position. 

Step 3: Search and apply for suitable New Zealand job opportunities

Once you have a well-crafted CV, you can actively search for job openings and submit your applications. Using keywords relevant to your profession should help you refine your search results on New Zealand job websites

 

Research companies that align with your career goals and interests and check the company websites for job postings and contact information. 

Step 4: Prepare and appear for interviews

Preparing thoroughly can help you increase your chances of making a positive impression and securing a job offer. Review your research on the company and your prepared questions to ensure you are updated with the current information. 

 

During the interview, demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and highlight your qualifications. Once you have completed the interview, follow up by expressing your gratitude and reiterating your interest in the position.

Step 5 Secure a New Zealand offer letter

Upon receiving an offer letter, review it carefully to understand the terms and conditions. Consult with HR and associated legal professionals for further guidance on your visa.

Step 6: Checklist before you start work 

Ensure all your work permit requirements have been met. Familiarise yourself with the labour laws of the country, benefits offered by the company and other relevant details. Upon relocation, ensure you are familiar with the transport and the location of your new workplace. 

 

Also Read: Moving overseas for work? Use these checklists before you make the move!

Job opportunities in New Zealand for Indians

 

New Zealand offers a broad spectrum of employment opportunities across various sectors. Here are some popular job role and their corresponding average wage:

 

Industry and Sub Divisions

Job roles

Annual average base salary 

Healthcare, Pharmaceutical & Social Services

Cardiologist

NZD 210,465

Surgeon

NZD 204,465

Psychiatrist

NZD 204,425

Science

Physicist

NZD 122,600

Data Scientist

NZD 113,855

Geologist

NZD 96,813

Engineering

Software Engineer

NZD 110,000

Design Engineer

NZD 107,500

Project Engineer

NZD 105,000

Information Technology

Full-Stack Developer

NZD 115,000

Business Intelligence Analyst

NZD 110,000

UX/UI Designer

NZD 102,887

Banking, Finance & Insurance

Economist

NZD 109,800

Investment Advisor

NZD 103,033

Business Analyst

NZD 100,207

Source: Talent

Also read: Average Salary in New Zealand.

Eligibility for New Zealand jobs

  • Language Proficiency – English is used primarily in educational institutions and businesses. Demonstrating proficiency in English is crucial for job eligibility for non-native English speakers. An English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL is often required to assess your language skills.
  • Educational Qualifications – The specific educational qualifications required for New Zealand jobs vary depending on the industry and job role. However, many positions demand a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent. Some specialised professions, such as engineering or medicine may require advanced degrees or certifications.
  • Professional Experience – The professional experience required for New Zealand jobs varies widely depending on the specific role and industry. However, many positions, especially those requiring specialised skills, often demand several years of relevant work experience. This experience can be gained in various settings, including previous employment, internships or volunteer work. 
  • New Zealand work visas – Working in New Zealand typically requires international workers to obtain a valid work visa. The specific visa required depends on various factors, including your nationality, employment type and duration of stay. It is essential to research the visa requirements that apply to your situation and start processing them in advance. 

How to apply for jobs in New Zealand from India?

To apply for jobs in New Zealand from India, you can explore several online job portals, such as SEEK, Careers New Zealand, Trade me, Indeed, Eurojobs, Monster.com, LinkedIn and GrabJobs. You can also visit the job portals of specific companies that interest you or consider the Work Connect programme introduced by the New Zealand government. 

New Zealand work visas and immigration processes 

Securing a work visa is crucial  for Indian professionals seeking employment in New Zealand. The specific visa required depends on various factors, including your nationality, employment type, and duration of stay. 

 

Some visa applications may require submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), an online profile to declare your skills and intent to immigrate to New Zealand.

Different types of visas available for foreign professionals

 

Visa Type

Issued to

Duration

Processing time

Accredited Employer Work Visa

Individuals with a job offer from a pre-approved New Zealand employer.

Up to 5 years

3 months

Domestic Staff of a Diplomat Work Visa

Domestic workers for diplomatic, consular or official staff posted in New Zealand.

The same length of stay as the employer’s New Zealand posting

5 weeks

Entertainers Work Visa

Professional performers and artists for specific events or engagements.

For the time requested

to work in New Zealand

3 weeks

Long-Term Skill Shortage List Visa

Applicants with high-demand skills 

Up to 30 months

7 weeks

Post-Study Work Visa

Graduates from New Zealand institutions. 

For Level 8 applicants, the same as the duration of study in New Zealand. For Master’s and doctoral students, 3 years. 

4 weeks

Recognised Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

Workers hired by accredited employers for seasonal roles in designated industries.

Depends on the date of arrival in New Zealand.

2 weeks

Specific Purpose Work Visa

Individuals with skills for short-term projects or events. 

Depends on how long you need to complete your purpose or event.

3 weeks

Talent (Accredited Employer)

Resident Visa

Exceptionally talented and highly skilled individuals essential to New Zealand’s economic growth.

Indefinite

24 months

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Individuals with skills and qualifications needed by New Zealand.

Indefinite

For detailed information on the visa types, click here

New Zealand workplace culture

Kiwi office culture varies with your colleagues, boss, and your background, feeling either familiar or foreign. Less corporate settings are often more relaxed. While personality clashes may occur, Kiwis are usually non-confrontational. Staying polite and cooperative ensures smooth interactions.

  • Collaboration and feedback 

In New Zealand, employees embrace a collaborative work environment where everyone’s input is valued. Managers expect employees to contribute ideas and feedback, fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving.

  • Independent work 

While teamwork is important, employees also value independent work. Employees are often expected to take initiative and work autonomously, demonstrating self-reliance and problem-solving skills. 

  • Work-Life Balance 

New Zealand prioritises work-life balance, offering some of the best in the world. Employers allow flexible working hours and time off to their employees for family events. 

  • Small business culture 

Many New Zealand businesses are small-scale, fostering a more intimate and collaborative work environment. Employees often have direct access to top decision-makers and can contribute more significantly to the company’s direction. 

Dos & Don’ts

Do’s
  • To find suitable New Zealand job opportunities, understand industry trends, specific job roles and visa requirements. 
  • Highlight relevant skills and experiences and ensure they align with the employer’s expectations. 
  • Connect with professionals in your field and attend industry events. 
  • Practice answering common interview questions. 
  • Research your target companies thoroughly.
Don’ts
  • Overlooking visa requirements can lead to rejection. 
  • Refrain from sending generic applications for job openings. 
  • Underestimating the importance of building relationships in your field can cause serious hurdles. 
  • Avoid rushing through the interview process. 

 

Also read: How to answer these 10 most common questions for an overseas job interview.

Before you go… 

Researching top industries and high-demand occupations will enable you to tailor your CV and effectively apply for suitable job opportunities in New Zealand for Indian nationals. Found a job in New Zealand? Congratulations on landing your new job! Before getting too excited about the move, remember that financial planning is crucial. It’s important to secure funds for emergencies to ensure a smooth transition into your new country.

Look out for a reliable international money transfer service –  Instarem offers a faster*, simpler and more affordable# way to send funds after relocation. Additionally, you can earn InstaPoints, which are redeemable for discounts on future transactions. 

 

Download the Instarem App from the App Store or Google Play or sign up online to kick start your money transfer.

FAQs

Q. What is the best way to apply for job vacancies in New Zealand for Indians?

The best way to apply for job vacancies in New Zealand for Indians is by using job portals like SEEK, Careers New Zealand, or Trade Me.

 

Q. How to find jobs in New Zealand from India?

Networking and job fairs provide direct access to opportunities. For a convenient job search, you can also try some New Zealand job portals for Indian nationals. 

 

Q. Can I get a job in New Zealand from India?

Yes, you can get a job in New Zealand from India. Some job portals also offer work-from-home jobs in New Zealand from India

 

Q. Which job is best for Indians in New Zealand?

Numerous opportunities exist for Indians in New Zealand, especially in sectors such as Healthcare, Pharmaceutical & Social Services, Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Banking, Finance & Insurance.

 

Q. Does New Zealand need IELTS for a job?

Yes, since English is predominantly used in professional spaces, certifications like IELTS or TOEFL are necessary to prove language proficiency for a successful job application. 

 

Q. Can I directly apply for jobs in New Zealand from India?

Yes, if you know of any New Zealand job vacancy for Indian nationals, you can directly approach the company or employer for the application process. 

 

Q. How to get an opportunity to work in New Zealand from India without PR?

You do not necessarily need a permanent residency to work in New Zealand from India. As long as you have a suitable visa, you can work in New Zealand and then apply for permanent residency if you wish to do so. 

 

Q. How much can an international student earn in New Zealand?

International students working part-time in New Zealand can earn around NZD 30 to NZD 35 per hour.

 

Q. What is the age limit for working in New Zealand?

As an immigrant, you are required to be at least 18 years of age to work in New Zealand. If you are under 18, you must have written permission from your school and legal guardians to work

 

Q. Can I work for a company in New Zealand from India?

It is possible to work remotely for a New Zealand-based company from India depending on the company’s policies. Moreover, you must hold a valid visa that allows such work. 

 

 

 

Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.

* Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

#When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly. 

 

 

Citations : 

Get the app
About Instarem

Instarem stands at the forefront of international money transfer services, facilitating fast and secure transactions for both individuals and businesses. Our platform offers competitive exchange rates for popular currency pairs like USD to INR, SGD to INR, and AUD to INR. If you're looking to send money to India or transfer funds to any of 60+ global destinations, Instarem makes it easy for you. We are dedicated to simplifying cross-border payments, providing cutting-edge technology that support individuals and businesses alike in overcoming traditional fiscal barriers normally associated with banks. As a trusted and regulated brand under the umbrella of the Fintech Unicorn Nium Pte. Ltd., and its international subsidiaries, Instarem is your go-to for reliable global financial exchanges. Learn more about Instarem.

close icon
Select location
Australia flag
Australia
Austria flag
Austria
Canada flag
Canada
France flag
France
Germany flag
Germany
Hong Kong flag
Hong Kong
India flag
India
Ireland flag
Ireland
Japan flag
Japan
Malaysia flag
Malaysia
Netherlands flag
Netherlands
Singapore flag
Singapore
United Kingdom flag
United Kingdom
United States of America flag
United States of America
close icon
Select a language
English (EN)
close icon

Change location and language

You are on our Global website. Select below to change to another location.

Save changes