Key Points
- Effective May 26, 2025, New Zealand revised the Specific Purpose Work Visa for sports professionals
- Visa durations now vary by competition level, allowing up to 36 months for regional or national roles
- Extensions permitted for contract renewals, up to a total stay of 36 months
Overview
New Zealand has introduced significant changes to its Specific Purpose Work Visa for sports professionals, taking effect on May 26, 2025. The policy revision adjusts visa durations based on the applicant’s level of athletic or coaching involvement, offering longer stays for those engaged in higher-tier competition.
Under the updated framework, sports players and coaches who are not competing at national or regional levels will be eligible for work visas of up to 12 months. Those performing at regional or national levels can now receive visas valid for up to 36 months. The government has also clarified that renewals based on contract extensions are permitted, provided the total stay does not exceed 36 months.
To qualify, applicants must hold a paid position with a New Zealand-based sports club, meet all visa criteria, and submit appropriate supporting documentation. Standard health and character requirements remain in place. These updates reflect New Zealand’s efforts to better align visa conditions with the nature and duration of professional sports engagements while maintaining integrity within the temporary work system.
This change is likely to benefit sports organizations and clubs that seek greater continuity in athlete and coaching contracts, especially in competitive leagues or tournaments that span multiple seasons. It also provides more explicit guidance to foreign talent considering relocation to New Zealand for athletic roles.
Looking Ahead
Sports clubs and recruiting organizations in New Zealand should familiarize themselves with the updated eligibility tiers and incorporate visa timelines into their strategic planning. Given the opportunity for renewals, clubs can now better manage staffing continuity and player development. Applicants are advised to begin documentation preparations early and confirm that their competitive level aligns with the new visa duration guidelines. Immigration New Zealand may issue further guidance as the policy is implemented.
