Visitors to New Zealand can now drive on their overseas car licence for up to 18 months

If you’ve recently arrived in New Zealand, here’s a key update from the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency about overseas driver licences, and what it means for you as a migrant. The new 18-month allowance You can now drive on your valid overseas car licence for up to 18 months from your date of arrival. Previously it was 12 months. After the 18 months you must either convert your overseas licence to a New Zealand one, or stop driving. This …

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Get a scholarship to study in New Zealand in 2026

Dreaming of studying in New Zealand? Now’s your chance! Find out about the most popular scholarships for 2026 intakes at leading institutions across the country — from thousands off tuition to generous merit awards, for both undergraduate and postgraduate learners. Whether you’re looking to study arts, sciences, business or early childhood education, exciting opportunities await at universities and colleges from Auckland to Christchurch, an more. Let’s explore the funding pathways that could turn your Kiwi education ambition into reality. Questions? Contact …

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New, National Occupation List, to replace ANZSCO

The new National Occupation List (NOL) will replace the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) in a transitional approach as more occupations will be recognised and added to the NOL, and more visa categories will use the new system. The first major step in this implementation of the NOL outlines occupations eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Jobs are grouped by similar tasks and responsibilities, with skill levels ranging from 1 (most skilled) to 5 …

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Skilled Migrant Category Residence points systems updates for 2026

From mid-2026, the Zealand Government is implementing major updates to the Skilled Migrant Category residency points system. All of these updates are beneficial to prospective migrants and will make it easier and quicker to move to New Zealand and obtain a resident visa What is changing in the Skilled Migrant points system in 2026 From August 2026, several updates will make it easier for skilled migrants and international graduates to build a future in New Zealand. Recognising New Zealand qualifications …

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New Skilled Residence Pathways Coming to New Zealand in 2026

From mid-2026, the New Zealand Government will introduce two new residence options to help businesses hold on to the talent they need, while giving skilled migrants faster and fairer ways to secure a future here. At New Zealand Shores, we know how attractive these pathways will be—and how important it is to get your eligibility and documentation right from the start. Our team of licensed immigration advisers can guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you’re ready to …

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NZ Investor Visa Holders Can Now Buy Property: 2025 Rule Change Explained

As of 1 September 2025, the New Zealand Government has announced a significant change: residents holding investor visas — including Active Investor Plus Visa (Golden Visa), Investor 1 Visa and Investor 2 Visa — may now purchase or build a home in New Zealand even if they do not live here permanently. Why This Matters Before 2018, foreign investors from overseas could freely buy New Zealand residential properties — whether or not they ever set foot in the country. This …

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Business Investor Visa NZ 2025 | Fast-Track to Residence

The new New Zealand Business Investor Visa opens in November 2025, giving investors a choice of a $1m 3-year pathway or a $2m 12-month fast-track to residence. Applicants can buy or part-own an existing business and become eligible for the Business Investor Resident Visa. Our migration specialists can guide you through every step. Invest in New Zealand. Secure Your Future. New Zealand is opening new doors for international investors. From November 2025, the Business Investor Work Visa offers two clear …

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New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas 2025: Global Workforce & Peak Seasonal Opportunities

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in New Zealand, now might be your moment. To help fill crucial skills gaps during peak seasons, the Government is launching two exciting new visa options under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme — opening 8 December 2025. These visas are designed to connect global talent with short-term but highly in-demand jobs in industries like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, wine, adventure sports, and more. For the right applicants, they can be a stepping stone …

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Faster, Easier Registration in New Zealand for Overseas-Trained Doctors

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) has introduced major updates to streamline the registration process for overseas-trained doctors. These changes are designed to strengthen the healthcare workforce and make it easier for qualified doctors to live and work in New Zealand. At New Zealand Shores, we welcome this news especially as doctors remain on New Zealand’s Green List, giving them a direct pathway to residency. What’s Changing? 1. Fast-Track Registration for GPs General Practitioners (GPs) trained in the United …

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New Zealand’s Infrastructure Boom and Education Plan Open Doors for Migrants and International Students

The New Zealand government has announced two major initiatives that together signal a clear message: Aotearoa is open for growth, talent, and long-term migration. Massive Infrastructure Investment to Create Thousands of Jobs in New Zealand The New Zealand government is investing billions in national infrastructure projects—upgrading roads, public transport, housing, water systems, and hospitals. These projects will create tens of thousands of new jobs across the country. Aotearoa is open for growth, talent, and long-term migration This is a golden …

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