In the world of New Zealand immigration, one of the most common points of confusion, and something we are asked about a lot more than we probably should be, is the difference between a work visa and residence. While it might appear obvious to some, for many applicants, the difference between these two visas and what they provide is not so clear and can lead to disappointment when one doesn’t necessarily turn in to the other. More importantly these two different visas are also interpreted very differently by applicants and employers alike. Employers tend to have a short-term view, focusing very closely on the ability for applicants to secure a work visa, so they can fill the vacancy, whereas applicants are usually always focused on the longer-term pathway to residence.

Understanding the difference between the two visas, is a key step for any potential applicant and also appreciating that a work visa doesn’t automatically lead to residence can be the difference between success and failure. However it is also important for employers to appreciate that for applicant’s there is often a much bigger plan in place than just the Work Visa, and there are many things that they can do to support that longer-term objective.

This weeks article is as much about the employer side of the equation as it is for applicants, however we will take a look at the key differences between these visas and then also how they are so closely linked together, and perhaps whether they need to be.