New Zealand Specific Work Visa Policy Changes Issued in May 2025
In a significant update that impacts sports professionals seeking to live and work in New Zealand, Immigration New Zealand has officially revised the terms of the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) — a popular visa route for athletes and coaches worldwide. These changes, announced on May 26, 2025, aim to better accommodate professionals in the growing sports industry, with differentiated visa durations based on the level of competition.
Let’s break down everything international applicants and current visa holders need to know.
What’s New in the SPWV Policy for Sports Professionals?
Effective May 26, 2025, the duration of stay under the Specific Purpose Work Visa has been amended as follows:
| Applicant Type | New Maximum Visa Duration |
|---|---|
| Sports players and coaches below national/regional level | Up to 12 months |
| Sports players and coaches at national or regional level | Up to 36 months |
-
Visa Extension Allowed: Those already in New Zealand on a SPWV at national or regional level can now extend their visa (up to a total of 36 months) if their contract gets extended.
Advertisement -
This adjustment is aimed at giving professional athletes and coaches more contractual flexibility and time for skill development.
Who Is Considered a “Professional” Sports Applicant?
To qualify under the updated policy, applicants must meet these definitions:
- Professional Sports Player: Someone with a paid position at a New Zealand sports club, whose primary responsibility is training and competing.
- Professional Sports Coach: An individual employed to coach sports professionally at a New Zealand sports club.
- National or Regional Level: Applicants who represent a club in top-tier national, trans-Tasman, or international competitions.
General Eligibility Criteria for the Specific Purpose Work Visa
Regardless of the applicant’s industry, here’s what you’ll need:
- A genuine offer related to a specific purpose or event in New Zealand.
- Relevant qualifications and experience to perform the job.
- Evidence of how long you need to stay, such as a work contract or schedule.
- Good health (may require X-ray or medical certificate).
- Good character (police certificates required for long stays).
- Sufficient funds or a sponsor to cover living expenses.
- Proof of departure plans (e.g., a return ticket or financial means to purchase one).
Note: You cannot include your spouse or children in this visa application. They must apply for their own visas separately.
What Can You Do With This Visa?
- Work only for the specific purpose or event stated in your visa.
- Enter and exit New Zealand if your visa includes multiple-entry conditions.
- Apply for tax registration (IRD number) for legal employment.
- The application for the Specific Purpose Work Visa comes at a considerable fee—from NZD $1455, reflecting its specialized nature. As for processing, expect efficiency: 80% of applications are processed within just 3.5 weeks, making it one of the more streamlined visa pathways for professionals heading to New Zealand.
How to Apply for the SPWV Online?
- Check eligibility and ensure your purpose matches the list of acceptable events or jobs.
- Prepare documents, including:
- Job offer or contract
- Proof of funds or sponsorship
- Health and character certificates
- Evidence of qualifications
- Apply online via https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/specific-purpose-work-visa/
- Wait for a decision — interim visas may be granted if your current visa expires while processing.
References
Visit daadscholarship.com for More Fully-funded Scholarships 2026 News.
