Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa processing time
As at 22 July 2026, 50% of recent Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa applications were processed within 4 weeks and 80% within 4 weeks, per Immigration New Zealand's published figures.
4 weeks
50% processed within
4 weeks
80% processed within
Trend
Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.
About this visa
This visa is now closed. You can only apply for this visa if you have already held a Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa and you are waiting for a decision on your resident visa application.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa take to process?
- As at 22 July 2026, Immigration New Zealand reports that 50% of recent Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa applications were completed within 4 weeks and 80% within 4 weeks. Individual applications can take longer, particularly if INZ requests further information.
- Why is my Long Term Skill Shortage List 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.