Licensed Immigration Advisers in New Zealand

A Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) is licensed by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) of New Zealand. Under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, it is illegal in New Zealand for anyone to provide paid immigration advice unless they are licensed by the IAA, exempt (e.g., NZ lawyers), or do so for free. Always verify any adviser at immigration.govt.nz.

You are not legally required to use an LIA, but complex applications — Skilled Migrant Category (SMC), Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), partner/family residence, or any case with a prior refusal — significantly benefit from professional advice. An LIA can ensure your application is complete, accurate, and presents your case in the best light.

Visit immigration.govt.nz and use the 'Check an adviser' search tool. This shows the adviser's current licence status, licence number, and any disciplinary actions. Never engage an adviser who cannot provide a valid IAA licence number.

New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) is a points-based residence visa stream for skilled workers. Points are awarded for factors including age, skilled employment in NZ, qualifications, and work experience. Applications are submitted through an Expression of Interest (EOI) pool and selected by Immigration New Zealand based on points score.

Fees vary by application type. A Student Visa typically costs NZD $500–$1,200. Skilled Migrant Category applications are more complex and typically cost NZD $1,500–$4,000+. Always request a written fee agreement before engaging any adviser.

Yes. After graduating from a New Zealand institution, you can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (up to 3 years depending on your qualification level and study location). Work experience gained on a PSW can then qualify you for the Skilled Migrant Category or an Accredited Employer Work Visa, which are pathways to residence.

New Zealand's Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) replaced the old Essential Skills Work Visa in 2022. It requires your employer to be accredited by Immigration New Zealand, and your role must meet a minimum skill threshold. An LIA can assist both employers with accreditation and workers with their visa applications.

Yes. Many LIAs handle the full immigration lifecycle — from student visas through post-study work visas to Skilled Migrant Category residence applications. Continuity of adviser means they already know your history and can plan each step strategically.