China Special Work Visa processing time
As at 22 July 2026, 50% of recent China Special Work Visa applications were processed within 6 weeks and 80% within 8 weeks, per Immigration New Zealand's published figures.
6 weeks
50% processed within
8 weeks
80% processed within
Trend
Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.
About this visa
Apply for this visa if you have a job offer as a qualified chef, traditional medicine practitioner, Mandarin teacher's aide, Wushu martial arts coach, or Chinese tourism specialist. You must be a citizen of the People's Republic of China.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the China Special Work Visa take to process?
- As at 22 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand reports that 50% of recent China Special Work Visa applications were completed within 6 weeks and 80% within 8 weeks. Individual applications can take longer, particularly if INZ requests further information.
- Why is my China Special Work Visa application taking longer than the published time?
- The published figures are percentiles of recently decided applications, not a promise. Applications that are incomplete, need verification, or raise health, character or genuineness questions routinely exceed them. If your application is far outside the 80% figure, you can contact INZ or engage a licensed adviser or lawyer to follow up.
Application stuck or complicated?
A licensed adviser or lawyer can review where it is at. Send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.
Other work visas
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- Argentina Working Holiday Visa
- Austria Working Holiday Visa
- Belgium Working Holiday Visa
- Brazil Working Holiday Visa
- Canada Working Holiday Visa
Source: Immigration New Zealand's published processing-time figures. General information, not immigration advice.