Compare New Zealand visas side by side
Picking between two similar routes is where most people get stuck. These guides put the most-confused New Zealand visas next to each other - cost, processing time, work rights and the pathway to permanent residence.
Guides
6 comparisons
Source
immigration.govt.nz
Updated
June 2026
AEWV vs SMCAccredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) vs Skilled Migrant Category Resident VisaGreen List STR vs Green List WTRGreen List Straight to Residence Visa vs Green List Work to Residence VisaSMC vs Green List STRSkilled Migrant Category Resident Visa vs Green List Straight to Residence VisaStudent Visa vs Post-Study WorkFee Paying Student Visa vs Post-Study Work VisaPartner Work vs Partner ResidentPartner of a New Zealander Work Visa vs Partner of a New Zealander Resident VisaVisitor Visa vs NZeTAVisitor Visa vs New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
Figures are indicative for 2025-26 and government fees and rules change. Confirm current costs and processing times at immigration.govt.nz before applying. General information only - not immigration advice.