🇳🇿 New Zealand · Employer-sponsored work
China Special Work Visa — requirements, costs & how to apply
Who is eligible
| Minimum monthly income | €681 |
| Minimum annual salary | NZD 16,260 |
| Job offer | Required |
| Employer sponsor | Required |
| Criminal record | Clean record / police clearance |
| Age range | 18–65 |
Costs
| Application / consular fee | €684 |
Duration & renewal
Initial stay: 36 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
- Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/china-special-work-visa/.
- Typical processing: ~70 days.
Frequently asked
How much income do I need?
You must show €681.
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Sources & verification
Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.
“To apply you must: be a citizen of the People's Republic of China; have an offer of full-time work in an approved special work occupation; be qualified to do the work you have been offered”
“provide police certificates if your total time in New Zealand will be 24 months or longer”
“You must leave New Zealand before your visa expires. ... After you have been back in China for 3 years, you can apply for another China Special Work Visa if you wish.”
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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-24.