Work to Residence Talent (Arts, Culture & Sports) Work Visa
Bring your world-class talent to New Zealand.
What is this visa for?
The Talent (Arts, Culture & Sports) Work Visa is for individuals with exceptional talent in a declared field of art, culture, or sport. If you're supported by a recognised New Zealand organisation and can show that your presence will enrich the country’s achievements, this visa may be your pathway to live and work in New Zealand — and eventually apply for residence.
Who can apply?
You may qualify if:
You have exceptional talent in a declared field of art, culture, or sport
You are supported by a New Zealand organisation of national repute
You have an acceptable sponsor in New Zealand (person, organisation, or agency)
You are 55 years old or younger
You meet standard health, character, and genuine intent requirements
You submit a complete application as per Immigration NZ guidelines
Good news: This visa allows you to work for any employer in New Zealand — not just the one listed in your application.
What does “exceptional talent” mean?
To qualify, you must:
- Have an international reputation and proven track record of excellence
- Still be actively involved in your field
- Be able to enhance New Zealand’s achievements and participation in your field
What is a “New Zealand organisation of national repute”?
It’s an organisation that either:
- Has a nationally recognised record of excellence in a specific field of art, culture, or sport
- Has a strong record in fostering exceptional talent in that field
Examples might include national sports bodies, arts councils, cultural trusts, or music academies.
Documents required to apply
You’ll need to submit:
- A completed Work Visa Application (INZ 1015)
- A completed Talent (Arts, Culture & Sports) Sponsorship Form (INZ 1091)
- Must include:
- A letter of support from a recognised NZ organisation
- Reason why your presence would benefit New Zealand in your field
- A written undertaking from an acceptable sponsor
- Must include:
- Proof of your international recognition and achievements
- Medical Certificate (INZ 1007) and Chest X-ray Certificate (INZ 1096)
- Police certificates from your country of citizenship and countries you’ve lived in for 5+ years since age 17
How long is the visa valid?
- If you're in New Zealand: 30 months (2.5 years), with multiple re-entries
- If you're outside New Zealand:
- You must enter NZ within 3 months of approval
- You can then stay for 30 months from your first arrival
Can I renew this visa?
Yes, if:
You already hold a Talent (Arts, Culture or Sports) visa
You have applied for residency under this same category
You meet all the other criteria (except age limit)
You can be granted a further visa for up to 24 months, giving INZ time to decide on your residence application.
If your residence application is declined, you cannot reapply for this visa unless you:
- Are granted a new work visa, and
- Submit a new residence from work application after holding that visa for 24 months
How does INZ verify your talent?
Immigration New Zealand may contact experts or bodies like:
- Creative New Zealand
- New Zealand Academy of Sport
- Relevant national organisations in your declared field
These checks help assess your reputation, talent, and the status of the supporting organisation.
How JD Immigration can help
At JD Immigration, we can assist you with:
Checking your eligibility
Preparing all documentation correctly
Liaising with your NZ sponsor organisation
Making sure your application meets INZ’s high standard
Supporting your transition from work visa to residence
Book a consultation with JD Immigration now to begin your training journey in Aotearoa.