This site is in beta. We are still smoothing out rough edges. If you spot something wrong or have a suggestion, tell us on the contact page.

Long Term Skill Shortage List Work Visa processing time

As at 16 October 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.

Figures as at 16 October 2026, captured daily.

Trend

Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.

50% within4 weeks25 days on 16 Oct, 25 on 29 Jun
80% within4 weeks25 days on 16 Oct, 25 on 29 Jun
Longest 80% in the period25 days29 Jun to 16 Oct
As at16 Oct2026, 105 daily captures

Tap or drag across the chart to read a day.

Captured50% within80% within
3 July 202625 days25 days
10 July 202625 days25 days
17 July 202625 days25 days
24 July 202625 days25 days
31 July 202625 days25 days
7 August 202625 days25 days
14 August 202625 days25 days
21 August 202625 days25 days
28 August 202625 days25 days
4 September 202625 days25 days
11 September 202625 days25 days
18 September 202625 days25 days
25 September 202625 days25 days
2 October 202625 days25 days
9 October 202625 days25 days
16 October 202625 days25 days

Captured daily from 29 June 2026 to 16 October 2026. No capture on 5 days in the period.

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

As at 16 October 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.

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 immigration adviser or immigration lawyer to follow up.

Other work visas

Thinking about professional help with this application? See what immigration advisers charge, browse licensed immigration advisers by city or verified immigration lawyers.

Sources

Application stuck or complicated?

A licensed immigration adviser or immigration lawyer can review where it is at. Send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.

Get help