In a move set to significantly impact the international sports community, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has officially revised the terms of its highly sought-after Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) for sports professionals. These crucial updates, effective May 26, 2025, aim to better align visa durations with the evolving landscape of the professional sports industry, offering increased flexibility and stability for athletes and coaches globally.
The key change introduces differentiated visa durations based on the applicant’s level of competition, a marked improvement over previous policies.
Here’s a breakdown of the new SPWV policy for sports professionals:
Enhanced Flexibility with Visa Extensions
For those already contributing to New Zealand’s sporting scene, the new policy brings welcome news. Sports players and coaches currently holding a SPWV at the national or regional level can now apply for an extension, allowing for a total stay of up to 36 months, provided their contract is extended. This adjustment is designed to provide greater contractual flexibility and foster long-term skill development within New Zealand’s sports sector.
Defining the “Professional” Sports Applicant: To ensure the revised policy targets genuine sports professionals, INZ has provided clear definitions:
- Professional Sports Player: An individual with a paid position at a New Zealand sports club, whose primary role is training and competing.
- Professional Sports Coach: An individual employed to coach sports professionally at a New Zealand sports club.
- National or Regional Level: Applicants who represent a club in top-tier national, trans-Tasman, or international competitions.
General Eligibility Remains Key
While the new durations are specific to sports professionals, the general eligibility criteria for the Specific Purpose Work Visa still apply to all applicants, regardless of their industry. These include:
- A genuine offer related to a specific purpose or event in New Zealand.
- Relevant qualifications and experience for the job.
- Evidence of the required length of stay (e.g., work contract or schedule).
- Good health (potentially requiring an X-ray or medical certificate).
- Good character (police certificates for longer stays).
- Sufficient funds or a sponsor for living expenses.
- Proof of departure plans (e.g., return ticket or financial means).
Important Note: It’s crucial for applicants to remember that spouses or children cannot be included in this visa application. They must apply for their own visas separately.
What You Can Do with the SPWV?
Successful SPWV holders are permitted to:
- Work only for the specific purpose or event stated in their visa.
- Enter and exit New Zealand if their visa includes multiple-entry conditions.
- Apply for tax registration (IRD number) for legal employment.
The application fee for the Specific Purpose Work Visa starts from NZD $1455, reflecting its specialized nature. Despite this, the processing is notably efficient, with 80% of applications typically processed within just 3.5 weeks, making it a streamlined pathway for professionals seeking to work in New Zealand.
How to Apply Online for SPWV?
The application process for the SPWV is straightforward and online:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your purpose matches the list of acceptable events or jobs.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documentation, including your job offer/contract, proof of funds/sponsorship, health and character certificates, and evidence of qualifications.
- Apply Online: Submit your application via the official Immigration New Zealand website: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/specific-purpose-work-visa/
- Await Decision: An interim visa may be granted if your current visa expires during processing.
These revisions underscore New Zealand’s commitment to supporting its growing sports industry by attracting and retaining top international talent, offering a clearer and more accommodating pathway for global athletes and coaches.
