New Zealand might seem like a dream destination—and in many ways, it is. With its breathtaking landscapes, laid-back lifestyle, and friendly culture, it’s no surprise that so many people fall in love with the country and start wondering: Can I stay here long term?
The reality, though, is that migrating to New Zealand isn’t as easy as packing a bag and deciding to stay. As someone who made the move from Germany and is now living here permanently, I can tell you—it’s possible, but it’s not always simple.
The Challenges of Staying in New Zealand Long Term
Many travellers come on a working holiday visa, like I did in 2015, and fall in love with the lifestyle. But when the visa ends, extending your stay becomes complicated. New Zealand’s immigration system is strict and highly regulated. You need the right visa for the right reasons, and not all pathways are open to everyone.
For most people, these are the main challenges:
- Limited visa durations – Working holiday visas are temporary, and extensions aren’t common.
- Strict sponsorship and job requirements – You usually need a job offer in a skilled profession and an employer willing to go through the sponsorship process.
- Long processing times – Especially post-COVID, immigration timelines have stretched.
- High costs – Applications, medical checks, police clearance—it adds up.
My Path: From Working Holiday to Residency
After my working holiday ended, I went back to Germany with the intention to stay, however, after a couple of years I realized, that I truly enjoyed living in New Zealand, even though it is so far away from home. And now, here I am, back in Queenstown—this time with a company willing to sponsor me. That sponsorship visa allowed me to stay, work, and build a life in New Zealand. But it was just a stepping stone.
Eventually, I was able to apply for residency through my partner. It involved paperwork, waiting, and lots of proof that we were living together and sharing a life. We decided to get an immigration advisor to help us with the process and ensure we got everything we needed for the application. It wasn’t a fast process, but it worked—and today I’m a New Zealand resident. It gives you a sense of freedom not being dependent on a company anymore and being able to take on multiple jobs or even change the employer.
If You Want to Stay in New Zealand: Your Options
If you’re considering a long-term move, here are a few pathways to explore:
1. Work Visa (Accredited Employer Work Visa)
You’ll need a job offer from an accredited employer in a role that meets immigration criteria. This is one of the most common pathways for skilled workers.
2. Partnership Visa
If you’re in a genuine relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may be eligible to apply for a partner-based visa. This can eventually lead to residency.
3. Student Visa
Studying in New Zealand can give you time to build local experience and later apply for post-study work visas.
4. Residency via Skilled Migrant Category
This points-based system considers factors like age, qualifications, work experience, and job offers in high-demand areas.
5. Entrepreneur or Investor Visa
For those with business experience or capital to invest, New Zealand offers business and investor visas.
Final Thoughts
Migration in New Zealand isn’t always a smooth ride. It takes time, planning, and often some sacrifice. But if your heart is set on staying here, there are ways to make it happen.
My journey wasn’t straightforward, but looking back, every visa form and waiting period was worth it. I now call this incredible country home—at least for now, who knows what the future brings? I am 3 years away from becoming a citizen here and I definitely don’t want to miss this opportunity.
If you’re dreaming of making New Zealand your home too, my advice is this: do your research, be patient, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Because while the process can be challenging, the life you can build here is more than worth it.
I am excited to hear your Indvidual story!
