Permanent Resident Visa
For resident visa holders who have met commitment-to-New-Zealand criteria and want indefinite travel rights.
The Permanent Resident Visa is a New Zealand settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$420) and processing time (~3-6 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Permanent Resident Visa is for
For resident visa holders who have met commitment-to-New-Zealand criteria and want indefinite travel rights.
Is the highest residence status; a common step before applying for citizenship.
Permanent Resident Visa - eligibility criteria
- Have held a resident visa for at least 2 years
- Meet one of the commitment criteria (time in NZ, tax, business or investment)
- Have met any conditions on the resident visa
- Meet character requirements
- Hold a valid passport
Permanent Resident Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Permanent Resident Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$420, with an indicative processing time of ~3-6 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Settlement |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from inside or outside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Permanent with indefinite re-entry rights |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role |
| Study rights | Study with no restrictions |
| Government fee | ~NZ$420 |
| Processing time | ~3-6 months |
| Route to PR | Is the highest residence status; a common step before applying for citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Is the highest residence status; a common step before applying for citizenship.
Many applicants also compare SMC · Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, Partner Resident · Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Citizenship · Citizenship by Grant. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Permanent Resident Visa pitfalls we fix
Permanent Resident Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Permanent Resident Visa cost?
The Permanent Resident Visa government fee is ~NZ$420. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Permanent Resident Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3-6 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Permanent Resident Visa lead to permanent residence?
Is the highest residence status; a common step before applying for citizenship.
Can I work on the Permanent Resident Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role.
Who can apply for the Permanent Resident Visa?
For resident visa holders who have met commitment-to-New-Zealand criteria and want indefinite travel rights.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority