How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa as a Mechanical Engineer

New Zealand is an excellent choice for pursuing your career in any field be it Nursing or Mechanical Engineer. New Zealand’s growing engineering sector requires skilled professionals, making it a great and attractive option for mechanical engineers from around the world. Therefore, if you are a mechanical engineer and want to flourish your career more, or if you are at the beginning of your career and want to start from your dream country, then now is your chance as mechanical engineering is on New Zealand’s long term skills shortage list. 

Qualifications Required to Work in New Zealand as a Mechanical Engineer

1.  A relevant degree in engineering
2. Professional registration for certain roles 

Academic Qualifications

1. Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc Eng) 
2. Master of Engineering (MEng) or Master of Science in Engineering (MSc Eng)

Firstly, your degree should come from an officially recognised institution, and secondly, it should be assessed for a match by Engineering New Zealand or the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)

Visa Options for Mechanical Engineers in New Zealand

1.   Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa - For those who desire to live and Work in New Zealand permanently, the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident visa is the best option. To apply for a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, you must meet the required points based on characteristics such as age, work experience, qualifications, and job offer.
•    Eligibility Criteria: Be 55 years old or younger. 
•    Must have a relevant qualification in mechanical engineering.
•    Should have at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
•    Get an acceptable skilled job offer in New Zealand (preferred but not mandatory).
•    Must be able to meet health and character requirements.

2.    Essential Skills Work Visa - Essential Skills Work Visa permits skilled workers to work in New Zealand for an employer who has offered them a job. The Essential Skills Work Visa is typically issued when there is a shortage of local workers and is it also based on the skills an applicant has.
•    Eligibility Criteria: A valid job offer from a New Zealand employer.
•    Proof that the job cannot be easily filled by a local worker.
•    Relevant mechanical engineering qualifications or work experience.
•    Applicants must be able to meet both health and character requirements.

3.    Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) - The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is for skilled professionals who have a job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand. If the applicant is able to meet the specific requirements after working for some time, then this visa works as a gateway and enhances the chances of qualifying for residency. 
•    Eligibility Criteria: A confirmed job offer from an accredited employer in New Zealand.
•    Proof of qualifications and relevant work experience.
•    Should be able to meet health and character requirements.

4.    Residence from Work Visa - Residence from Work Visa allows skilled workers who have been on a work visa for at least two years to apply for residency. If you have been working in New Zealand as a mechanical engineer, then this visa will help you to settle down in New Zealand as a permanent resident.

Follow the Following Steps to Apply for a New Zealand Work Visa

Follow the given steps if you are planning to apply for a New Zealand visa as a mechanical engineer:-

Step 1: Check the Eligibility Requirements - Before you start the process of applying for the application, double-check that you meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen visa category. Besides checking the eligibility criteria, you must be able to meet the qualifications, work experience, and job offer requirements.

Step 2: Get Your Qualifications Assessed - If your mechanical engineering degree is not from New Zealand, then you may need to have your qualifications assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to ensure they meet the country’s standards.

Step 3: Secure a Job Offer - To increase your chances of getting a visa, it is recommended to secure a job offer from a New Zealand employer. 
Some ways to find job opportunities include:
•    Checking job portals such as Trade Me Jobs, LinkedIn etc.
•    Another way is by contacting recruitment agencies that specialize in engineering jobs.
•    Networking with professionals in the industry.

Step 4: Submit Your Visa Application - Once you meet the requirements, you can submit your application online through the Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website. Make sure to provide all required documents, including:
•    Proof of qualifications and work experience.
•    A copy of the job offer letter.
•    Health and character certificates.
•    Passport and identification documents.

Step 5: Wait for Processing and Approval - Processing times vary depending on the type of visa you have applied for and your application. The Essential Skills Work Visa typically takes a few weeks, while the SMC Resident Visa may take several months.

Job Opportunities for Mechanical Engineers in New Zealand

Mechanical engineers in New Zealand have excellent career opportunities in various industries, including:

•    Manufacturing: Here you will design and improve industrial machinery and processes.

•    Energy Sector: Working on sustainable energy solutions and power plants.

•    Construction: Involvement in large infrastructure and commercial building projects.

•    Automotive & Aerospace: Designing and testing vehicle and aircraft components.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

2.    Securing a Job Offer - Finding a job before arriving in New Zealand can be challenging. To increase your chances:
•    Apply to multiple positions.
•    Customize your resume to match New Zealand job market expectations.
•    Engage with professional engineering groups and networks.

3.    Visa Processing Delays - Processing times can vary, so it is essential to apply well in advance and ensure that all documents are correctly submitted to avoid any delays.

If you wish for career growth and also to have a high standard of living, then New Zealand will be the best choice which offers excellent opportunities for mechanical engineers. With various visa options available, skilled professionals can find a pathway that best suits their qualifications and experience. 

Just make sure that you meet the necessary requirements, are able to ensure a job offer, and follow the application process thoroughly, by following these steps you can easily get a New Zealand visa as a mechanical engineer and build a bright future in the country.

If you are planning to apply, then ensure that you stay updated with Immigration New Zealand policies, also to get a more efficient and smooth process it would be great to get professional guidance that can help make the process smoother and more efficient.