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Move-to checklist · Oceania

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Moving to New Zealand from the USA

Checklist for Americans moving to New Zealand — Skilled Migrant, Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), Working Holiday, Active Investor Plus, IRD number, and your first month.

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01

Visa & legal right to stay

  • Pick a route: Skilled Migrant Category (points-based), AEWV (sponsored), Active Investor Plus, or Working Holiday (under 36)

    Must

    SMC now needs 6 points — usually a job offer + a specific occupation + qualification combo.

  • If sponsored, your employer must be an Accredited Employer

    Must

  • Apply online via Immigration NZ — most decisions are now made offshore

02

Paperwork to gather before you fly

  • Police certificate (FBI background check) for everyone 17+

    Must

  • Medical exam at an INZ-approved panel physician

    Must

  • Qualifications assessed by NZQA if needed

  • Pet relocation is strict — start the process 6+ months out via MPI

    Must
03

Money & banking

  • Apply for an IRD number once you arrive (or via a tax agent before)

    Must

  • Open an NZ account (ANZ, ASB, Westpac, BNZ) — most allow remote opening before you arrive

    Must

  • Enroll in KiwiSaver if employed (your employer auto-enrolls)

  • Get tax advice on the 4-year transitional tax exemption for new migrants

04

Housing

  • Use TradeMe Property or realestate.co.nz for long-term rentals

  • Expect 4 weeks bond + 2 weeks rent in advance

    Bond is lodged with Tenancy Services, not your landlord.

  • Auckland is most expensive — consider Wellington or Christchurch

  • Check insulation and heating ratings — older NZ houses can be cold

05

Healthcare

  • Most residents and 2-year+ work visa holders qualify for publicly funded healthcare

    Must

  • Register with a GP (PHO) immediately — visits are subsidized once enrolled

  • Buy private insurance (Southern Cross is dominant) for elective procedures

06

First 30 days on the ground

  • Get your IRD number and give it to your employer in the first week

    Must

  • Enroll with a GP and pay the enrollment fee

    Must

  • Get an NZ SIM (Spark, One NZ, 2degrees, or Skinny)

  • Use your US driver's license for the first 12 months, then convert at NZTA

  • Pay the IETC International Visitor Levy if applicable on entry

FAQ

Is the Skilled Migrant Category still realistic?

Yes — but you need a job offer with an Accredited Employer for most occupations. The points-based system rewards occupation, qualifications, and NZ work experience.

How long is the residency-to-citizenship path?

5 years of holding resident-class visas, with at least 1,350 days physically in NZ during that period.

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NextLatitude is for organization and guidance only. Visa rules, tax thresholds, and procedures change — always confirm with the relevant consulate or a licensed professional before acting. Last reviewed 2026-06-01.