Certain people can apply for a work visa to New Zealand for a specific purpose, such as:
- A senior or specialist businessperson on short-term secondment with an offer of employment in either a substantial New Zealand company or a New Zealand subsidiary of an overseas company. If approved, a visa is issued for the length of the secondment for up to a maximum of 12 months.
- A sports referee with a written invitation or schedule of events invited to referee sports events in New Zealand. A visa can be issued for the length of the sporting engagement and not usually for more than six months.
- A judge of a show, display or exhibition, with a written invitation or schedule of events, invited to judge shows, displays, or exhibitions. If approved, the work visa will be for the length of the engagement and not usually for more than six months.
- A dance or music examiner of a recognised international teaching institution with a written invitation or offer of employment to conduct examinations in New Zealand. If approved, the work visa will be for the length of the examinations and not usually for more than six months.
- An installer or servicer of specialised equipment or machinery who can show that installing or servicing the equipment is a condition of purchase. If approved, the work visa will be for the length of time required, up to three months.
- An entertainer, performing artist, film or video crew or support personnel. If approved, the work visa will be for the length of time requested. There are special requirements for this.
- A business investor whose residence application has been approved in principle and who is coming to New Zealand to investigate investment opportunities. The work visa will be for 12 months from the date of the approval in principle of the residence application.
- A chief executive or senior staff member of a multinational company for which similar applications have been approved. If approved, the work visa will be for the length of secondment, up to three years, though further work visas may be possible after that time.
- A sports player, a referee or professional coach with a written offer of employment from a New Zealand sports club. If approved, the work visa will be for the duration of the employment offer up to 12 months, or up to a maximum of three years for regional or national level coaches.
- Other – Other special purposes may be permitted by application, depending on skills for the particular purpose