Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa
Come to New Zealand for a specific job, role, or event.
What is this visa for?
The Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa is for people who need to come to New Zealand temporarily to complete a one-off job, task, or event — usually because of their unique skills, expertise, or role.
This visa helps people who benefit New Zealand (or specific individuals/organisations) without affecting job opportunities for local citizens or residents.
Who can apply?
You may be eligible if:
- You are coming to New Zealand for a specific job or event listed in the policy (see examples below).
- The work is temporary and time-bound (not open-ended or permanent).
- You have the right skills or qualifications to do the job.
- You meet health and character requirements.
- You provide the required documents and proof for the role or event.
Examples of acceptable specific purposes or events:
Here are common reasons people apply under this visa category:
Purpose |
Who it’s for |
How long you can stay |
Business secondments |
Senior or specialist staff sent to NZ offices |
Up to 12–36 months |
Intra-company transfers |
Executives, managers, or experts joining NZ branches |
Up to 36–72 months |
Special machinery installation |
Technicians installing equipment as part of purchase |
Up to 3 months |
Sports players or coaches |
Joining a NZ club at a professional or regional level |
12–36 months |
Entertainment workers |
Artists, performers, film crew |
Length of event/project |
Examiners and judges |
Referees, judges, or dance/music examiners |
Up to 6 months |
Seasonal activity workers |
Workers for weather-dependent industries (e.g. ski season, harvest) |
Up to 9 months |
Investor residence applicants |
Visiting NZ to arrange or investigate investments |
12–18 months |
Other unique roles |
Where no NZ citizen or resident is suitable for the job |
Case-by-case duration |
For each type, you’ll need specific evidence – such as a job offer, invitation, or secondment letter.
What documents do you need?
(depends on your specific reason)
You may need to provide:
- A valid job offer or invitation to participate in the event
- A completed Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113)
- Proof of your skills/qualifications
- Evidence of funds to support yourself
- Details of the event or work duration
- For seasonal workers: work experience, job ad history, and employer accreditation
How long is the visa valid for?
- The visa is granted only for the time required to complete the purpose or event.
- The maximum stay varies depending on the category.
- Extensions are allowed only in certain categories where explicitly permitted.
Can I get another visa under this category?
In most cases, you cannot apply again under this category if you already hold a Specific Purpose or Event visa — unless:
- The policy allows for extensions in your category (check the visa table), and
- You need more time to complete the same purpose or event.
Conditions on your visa:
- You can only work for the specific employer and in the role/location mentioned in your visa.
- Your visa may allow multiple entries into New Zealand while valid.
- If outside NZ, you’ll be given enough time to enter the country before starting your role.
Who cannot apply?
- Guardians of international students holding a Visitor Visa (V3.100) cannot apply for this visa.
- If you are filling a permanent role (like a full-time farm worker), you must apply under a different visa (e.g. Accredited Employer Work Visa).
Need help applying?
Every case is unique. At JD Immigration, we can help:
? Check if your job or role qualifies
? Gather the right documents
? Prepare a strong application
? Handle extensions (if applicable)
Book a consultation today to see if this visa is right for you.