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For Brits moving abroad
Other costs of moving to New Zealand from UK
Official fees for the main work visa, primary applicant only. Checked October 2026.
Accredited Employer Work Visa: from NZ$1,540
Resident visas cost more, and partners and children cost extra. Check current fees and processing times on the Immigration New Zealand site.
Other Costs
Visas and transfers are only part of it. Budget for these too:
Skills assessment or registration for your occupation
Medicals and police certificates
Shipping your belongings
A rental bond of up to four weeks' rent, plus up to two weeks' rent in advance
Get quotes early, because shipping in particular can take months to arrange.
Keep enough savings to cover living costs until your first payday.
Renting a home
Most people rent when they first arrive. Landlords can ask for a bond of up to four weeks' rent, and up to two weeks' rent in advance. Your bond must be lodged with Tenancy Services, not kept by the landlord.
Letting fees are banned in New Zealand, so you shouldn't be charged just for signing a tenancy.
Landlords usually want references and proof of income, so bring a reference from your UK landlord and a copy of your job offer.
Questions about moving to New Zealand?
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you within one to two days.
Not sure New Zealand is right for you?
For a full breakdown of bank fees, specialist providers and how to move a large sum like a house sale, read our guide to moving money abroad.
Australia isn’t the only option. Our free relocation tool compares countries based on your job, age and priorities, and shows you where you’d fit best.
Cost of Moving to New Zealand from the UK
Last checked: October 2026
Moving to New Zealand from the UK costs more than the flight. Visa fees, shipping, a rental bond and your first few weeks of living costs all add up before your first payday. This guide covers the main costs to plan for, so you can set a realistic budget before you go.
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Moving Your Money
Selling a house or moving your savings? Don't just use your bank. Banks often add a hidden margin to the exchange rate, and on a large transfer that can cost you thousands.
Currency specialists usually give better rates. Wise suits everyday and mid-sized transfers. For large sums like house sale money, specialists such as OFX or Currencies Direct can lock in a rate for you.
Compare rates before you send anything.
School fees on a work visa
Visas and transfers are only part of it. Budget for these too:
Skills assessment or registration for your occupation
Medicals and police certificates
Shipping your belongings
A rental bond of up to four weeks' rent, plus up to two weeks' rent in advance
Get quotes early, because shipping in particular can take months to arrange.
Children of most work visa holders can go to state school as domestic students, so fees are usually low, but check your child's eligibility first.
Keep enough savings to cover living costs until your first payday.
