Tips to help you navigate the process of applying for a job from outside New Zealand
New Zealand is a beautiful country known for its stunning natural landscapes, friendly people, and – I might be a bit biased here - amazing coffee! So I understand why a lot of people want to come here and work.
At Trinity, we’ve been getting a lot of job applications from people all over the world, so here are some tips to help you navigate the process of applying for a job from outside New Zealand:
1. Check your eligibility to work in New Zealand
Before you start applying for jobs in New Zealand, it's important to check if you're eligible to work in the country. New Zealand has specific visa requirements, and you'll need to obtain a work visa or a residence visa to be able to work legally in the country. Make sure to check the Immigration NZ website for up-to-date information on visa requirements or if you need guidance, book a consultation with one of our Licensed Immigration Advisers so they can point you to the right direction.
2. Research the job market
It's important to research the job market in New Zealand before applying for jobs. Look for job postings online and check out industry-specific job boards. You can also research companies in your field and see if they're hiring. This will give you an idea of the types of jobs available and the qualifications and experience required. Check if the role you want to apply and are qualified for is part of Immigration NZ’s long term skill shortage list, as it will give you better chances of getting hired.
3. Tailor your application to the New Zealand market and UPSKILL
When applying for a job from offshore, it's important to tailor your application to the New Zealand market. This means adjusting your resume and cover letter to fit the expectations of employers. Employers will look at who will best fit the role, so if you’re eyeing a particular job or industry, make sure you have the skills and qualifications for it. If you don’t, then it’s time to get some training, additional work experience, or both.
4. Be prepared for online interviews
Many employers conduct initial job interviews online. This can include video interviews or phone interviews. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet space for the interview. Practice your interviewing skills beforehand so you can make a good impression. A good level of English will be essential when communicating with New Zealand employers or recruitment agencies, so if English is not your first language, make sure to practice it.
5. Ensure your work experience is verifiable so you can be granted a visa
If you’ve been given a job offer, the next step would be applying for a visa. It’s important that all the work experience you declared on your CV is verifiable, meaning you have the documents and evidence to back your experience up as Immigration NZ will ask for copies of the documents. Samples of documents would be previous payslips, employment certificates, or training certificates, to name a few.
Applying for a job in New Zealand can be a challenging process, but with the right preparation and approach, it can lead to a rewarding career in a beautiful country. If you believe you have what it takes, check out our job vacancies here.
- Carmi Sanico, Immigration Manager at Trinity
