Will you be able to access public Health Care, Maternity or any other Public Services?
New Zealand has a good range of public services to provide support when needed.
As a migrant you will enjoy some of those benefits but the level of public support will depend on the type of visa you hold.
A resident visa will give you the best cover in many aspects. As a visitor you will need to ensure that you buy comprehensive travel insurance before coming to New Zealand.
Your entitlements in New Zealand
The table below will give you a good overview of the various rights and level of support you can expect, depending on your visa.
Your Entitlements |
Resident Visa |
Work Visa |
Student Visa |
Visitor Visa |
| How long can you stay? | indefinitely | depends on your job |
for as long as your study course takes. |
up to 9 months |
| How long can you work? | indefinitely | depends on your job | depends on your course (usually 20 hours per week and full-time during holidays) | you are not allowed to work |
| Do you need a job for this visa? | Under SMC likely. Family policy: no. | Under SMC yes Family policy: no. | No | n.a. |
| Access to Healthcare | Full access | less than 2 years: limited, over 2 years: full access | no rights | no rights |
| Schooling: Primary and Secondary | Full access | Full access | no rights | no rights |
| Tertiary Education (Uni) | Full access | need to pay international student fees | no rights | no rights |
| Student Allowance and Loan | Full access after three years | no rights | no rights | no rights |
| Support for Jobseekers | Full access after two years | no rights | no rights | no rights |
| Working for Families | Full access after one year | no rights | no rights | no rights |
| Voting rights | Yes, after one year | no rights | no rights | no rights |
| New Zealand Superannuation | After 10 years (5 after the age of 50) | no rights | no rights | no rights |
Are you eligible for a Resident Visa under the Skilled Migrant Category?
Find out by using our Quick Self-Check Guide or talk to our Employment Adviser about finding a job that suits your professional background and ask our Licensed Immigration Advisers whether you qualify.
Read more about becoming a New Zealand resident through the Skilled Migrant Category:
- Get powerful Job Search Assistance
- Can we guarantee you a job?
- Will you be able to claim points for your qualifications?
- Will you be able to claim points for your professional expertise?
- Is your profession on one of the Skill Shortages Lists?
- Do you have to be registered in New Zealand?
- Will you meet the English language requirements?
Ask us for a Free Professional Assessment!
Our Licensed Immigration Advisers and Job Search Professionals will assess your chances and let you know how you can start your migration process.