United Kingdom → New Zealand

Moving to New Zealand from the UK

Working Holiday, Skilled Migrant and Accredited Employer visas. How British citizens navigate New Zealand immigration, healthcare and settling in.

UK citizens aged 18 to 30 can apply for the Working Holiday visa, which allows a 23-month stay with full work rights. Beyond that, the Skilled Migrant Category and Accredited Employer Work Visa are the main routes, and Green List roles offer a fast track to residency for in-demand occupations.

This is general information, not migration advice. Visa requirements and eligibility depend on your individual circumstances, and rules change. For advice specific to your situation, speak with a licensed immigration adviser.

New Zealand keeps its immigration admin relatively light compared to other countries, but the order you do things still matters. , bank account, and healthcare enrolment are the first steps after arrival. These guides cover the visa options, costs and what British newcomers need to know.

Every year, thousands of British citizens move to New Zealand, whether they're emigrating permanently, relocating for a skilled job, or immigrating to New Zealand from the UK for a working holiday first. Whatever route you're weighing up, migrating to New Zealand from the UK comes down to the same practical steps: choose the right visa, then sort your IRD number, bank account and healthcare enrolment once you land.

Want the whole move mapped out for you, not just this piece of it? The Ultimate Relocation Guide is a paid, step-by-step guide (from AUD $59) covering visas, money, housing and your first 90 days for your exact move.

Guides for this move